Rabbit roast in the tray

Rabbit Roast in the Oven

Do you want to surprise a loved one with a delicious and healthy meal? Nothing compares to a rabbit roast cooked in the oven, full of flavors and accompanied by fresh vegetables. This recipe not only brings a fresh breath to your menu but also adds a touch of elegance and refinement. Cooking rabbit is a culinary tradition that has been appreciated over time due to its tender meat and subtle flavor. It’s time to discover how you can turn an ordinary meal into an unforgettable feast!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 90 minutes
Total time: 2 hours
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 1 domestic rabbit (approximately 1.5 - 2 kg, cleaned and cut into 3 large pieces)
- 2-3 carrots (sliced into rounds)
- 2 red bell peppers (sliced)
- 300 g broccoli (cut into florets)
- 150 g celery (diced)
- 2 large onions (julienned)
- a few sprigs of fresh thyme
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil
- 250-300 ml dry white wine
- salt, to taste
- pepper, to taste
- sweet paprika, to taste

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning and cutting the vegetables. The carrots, bell peppers, broccoli, and celery can be cut into larger pieces to remain crunchy after baking. The onion, although julienned, will add a subtle sweetness to the dish.

2. Washing and preparing the rabbit: Rinse the rabbit meat well under cold running water, then let it drain. This is an important step as it removes impurities and ensures a cleaner roast.

3. Arranging in the baking dish: Preheat the oven to 180 degrees Celsius. In a large dish, evenly spread the cut vegetables across the surface. They will create a bed for the rabbit and absorb the delicious flavors during baking.

4. Seasoning: Place the pieces of rabbit on top of the vegetables. Sprinkle with salt, pepper, thyme, and sweet paprika, ensuring they are evenly distributed. Adding dry white wine will bring a pleasant acidity and help tenderize the meat.

5. Adding the oil: Drizzle everything with olive oil, which will help brown the meat and vegetables beautifully. Olive oil is not only a delicious ingredient but also rich in antioxidants, benefiting your health.

6. Baking: Cover the dish with aluminum foil (this will help retain moisture) and place it in the preheated oven. Let it bake for 1 hour and 30 minutes, turning the meat and stirring the vegetables every 30 minutes. This step is essential to ensure the roast cooks evenly and does not dry out.

7. Finishing: After 90 minutes, remove the aluminum foil and let the roast brown for 15-20 minutes until it becomes golden and appetizing.

8. Serving: After taking the dish out of the oven, let the roast rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the roast alongside the cooked vegetables and drizzle the pan sauce over everything. Pair the dish with a chilled Romanian white wine, which will perfectly complement the flavors.

Useful tips:
- If you want an even more intense flavor, you can add a few whole garlic cloves to the dish.
- Instead of white wine, you can use beer to slightly change the flavor profile.
- Rabbit roast pairs wonderfully with a side of mashed potatoes or a fresh green salad to provide a crunchy contrast.

Nutritional benefits:
Rabbit meat is an excellent source of lean protein, with a lower fat and calorie content compared to other types of meat. It is rich in B vitamins, which are essential for energy metabolism. The vegetables add fiber and vitamins, contributing to a healthy meal.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen rabbit meat?
Yes, make sure to completely thaw it before cooking to achieve the desired texture.

- What other spices go well with rabbit?
You can experiment with rosemary, sage, or even curry for an exotic twist.

- How can I store leftovers?
Rabbit roast keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days and can be reheated in the oven or skillet.

Every meal cooked with love and passion becomes a cherished memory. This rabbit roast in the oven is not just a dish, but a culinary experience that brings family and friends together. Enjoy your meal!