Rabbit steak

Oven-marinated rabbit roast: a traditional recipe with a special flavor

When it comes to dishes that delight our taste buds and fill our souls, rabbit roast holds a special place. This recipe combines tradition with simple techniques, transforming the tender meat of the rabbit into an unforgettable delicacy. Here’s how to prepare it step by step, so you can create a meal worthy of the most beautiful moments spent with loved ones.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Marinating time: 12 hours (ideally overnight)
Baking time: 1 hour
Total: 13 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:
- 1 kg rabbit meat (preferably thighs, but you can use other parts)
- 500 ml dry white wine (choose a quality wine, as it will influence the final taste)
- 1 large carrot, sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 small celery, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 50 ml olive oil (or more, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- A sprig of fresh rosemary (optional, but recommended for extra flavor)

Recipe history:
Rabbit roast has deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures, often associated with festive meals or special occasions. Rabbit meat is appreciated not only for its delicate flavor but also for its nutritional value, being high in protein and low in fat. This simple and effective recipe highlights the natural flavor of the meat, enriching it with fresh and aromatic ingredients.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the rabbit meat well under cold running water. Make sure to remove any hairs or remnants. Then, dry the meat with a kitchen towel.

2. Marinating: In a large bowl, place the rabbit meat and add the chopped onion, sliced carrot, chopped celery, and garlic. These vegetables will not only add flavor but also help tenderize the meat during cooking.

3. Adding aromatic ingredients: Pour the white wine, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper over the meat and vegetable mixture. Add the bay leaves and rosemary if you choose to use it. Mix everything well so that the meat is evenly coated with the marinade.

4. Marinating: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 12 hours, ideally overnight. This is when the flavors will meld, and the meat will tenderize.

5. Preparing in the oven: The next day, preheat the oven to 180°C. Transfer the meat and vegetables to a baking dish, adding a little of the remaining marinade. Cover the dish with aluminum foil to retain moisture and prevent the meat from drying out.

6. Baking: Bake the roast for about 30 minutes, then remove the foil and let the roast brown for another 30 minutes. Check occasionally to ensure it doesn’t dry out; if necessary, you can add a little wine or water to the dish.

7. Serving: Once the roast is beautifully browned and juicy, remove it from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it alongside sides like mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Useful tips:
- Choosing the meat: Opt for rabbit meat from a trusted supplier. Fresh meat will have a better taste and texture.
- The wine: Choose a white wine with fruity notes that will perfectly complement the dish's flavors.
- Variations: You can experiment with other herbs like thyme or sage to vary the taste. Additionally, adding green or red olives can provide a unique look and flavor.
- Sides: Rabbit roast can be served with a mustard sauce or even a sour cream sauce with herbs for a pleasant contrast.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen rabbit meat? Yes, but it is recommended to fully thaw it before marinating to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat well.
- How long can I keep the marinade? The marinade can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. After this time, the meat may become too salty or too flavorful.
- What wine should I choose for this recipe? A dry white wine is ideal; avoid sweet wines, which could alter the final taste of the dish.

Nutritional benefits:
Rabbit meat is an excellent source of protein, having a low fat and calorie content. It is rich in B vitamins, essential for energy metabolism, and minerals like phosphorus and selenium, which contribute to bone health and the immune system.

Therefore, this rabbit roast recipe is not only delicious but also a healthy option for your meals. I wish you success in cooking and enjoying this dish full of flavors and tradition!