Rabbit in the oven

Rabbit in the Oven - A Delicious and Simple Recipe for Meat Lovers

Cooking rabbit meat is not only a tradition in many cultures, but also an opportunity to explore unique flavors and delicate textures. The oven-baked rabbit recipe is one of the simplest ways to prepare this meat, offering an unmistakable taste and an aroma that tantalizes the senses. This recipe is perfect for family meals or special occasions, where you want to impress with a savory and easy-to-make dish.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- ½ rabbit (back part), cut into pieces
- 8-10 cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 package of butter (approximately 200 g)
- 100 ml extra virgin olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 packet of vegeta (or a preferred spice mix)
- Dried thyme or Italian herbs, to taste
- 6-7 garlic cloves, crushed

Step by step:

Step 1: Preparing the meat

Start by washing the rabbit meat well under cold water, making sure to remove any fur, to achieve a clean and pleasant texture. Cut the meat into equal-sized pieces, so it cooks evenly. From a whole rabbit, you will get two hind legs and two back pieces, cut in half.

Step 2: Arranging in the baking dish

Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat). In a large baking dish, place the pieces of rabbit meat. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, spreading them evenly around the meat. They will add a sweet taste and pleasant acidity to the dish.

Step 3: Adding butter and spices

Cut the butter into small cubes and distribute it evenly in the dish, on top of the meat and tomatoes. The butter will add richness of flavor and help tenderize the meat during baking.

Season the meat with salt, pepper, vegeta, and your preferred herbs – thyme or Italian herbs. Add the crushed garlic cloves, which will release an intense aroma and enrich the flavor of the dish.

Step 4: Baking in the oven

Add enough water to the dish to partially cover the meat (approximately 200-300 ml). Then, drizzle with extra virgin olive oil. This will not only add a delicious flavor but will also help brown the meat.

Cover the dish with aluminum foil or a lid and place it in the oven. Bake for about 45 minutes. After this time, check the water level in the dish; if it has decreased too much, add 2-3 cups of water to prevent the meat from drying out.

Step 5: Finishing the dish

After an hour of baking, remove the aluminum foil and let the meat brown for another 10-15 minutes until it forms a golden and appetizing crust.

Serving

Once the rabbit is ready, take the dish out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. It is delicious served alongside mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables, which perfectly complement the intense flavors of the meat. A fresh salad can also add a pleasant contrast.

Chef's tip

If you want to add a touch of originality, try adding a few green or black olives to the dish, alongside the tomatoes. They will bring a slightly salty taste and an interesting texture.

Possible variations

For a more intense flavor, you can add white wine instead of water or even a splash of balsamic vinegar. Also, experiment with different herbs, such as rosemary or oregano, to create a personalized dish.

Nutritional information (per serving)

- Calories: approximately 350 kcal
- Protein: 30 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g

Rabbit meat is an excellent source of lean protein, rich in B vitamins, which are essential for energy metabolism. It is also a healthy option for those looking to reduce red meat consumption.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use frozen rabbit meat?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking to achieve an even texture.

What drinks pair well with oven-baked rabbit?
A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a light red wine like Pinot Noir, are excellent choices to accompany this dish.

Can I replace rabbit with another type of meat?
Yes, this recipe can be adapted for chicken or turkey, adjusting the cooking time according to the type of meat used.

Oven-baked rabbit is more than just a simple roast; it is a culinary experience that brings together flavors and textures, perfect for enjoying with loved ones. Try this recipe and let yourself be carried away by the delicious tastes of rabbit meat!