Transylvanian rabbit stew served in a cauldron with polenta

Saxon rabbit stew served in a pot with polenta

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 3-4 hours
Total time: 3-4 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Discover a traditional recipe that combines the rich flavor of rabbit meat with fresh vegetables and the creamy texture of polenta. This Saxon rabbit stew is an excellent choice for family meals, especially on cool evenings when you want to impress with something special.

A brief history:
Rabbit stew is a traditional dish that has been cooked for generations in households from many regions. This specific Saxon recipe is a perfect blend of culinary influences from different cultures, based on local ingredients. The dish is often associated with moments of celebration and conviviality, making it perfect for serving at a family meal.

Ingredients:
- One whole rabbit (approximately 1.5-2 kg)
- 200 g mushrooms (fresh or canned)
- 3 large carrots
- 2 large onions
- 1 bell pepper (optional, for added flavor)
- 2 bay leaves
- A bunch of fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 500 ml semi-dry red wine (choose a quality wine that you enjoy)
- 300 g cornmeal
- 200 g sour cream (for serving)
- Olive oil or butter for frying
- Salt and pepper to taste

Helpful tips about ingredients:
- Rabbit meat: Choose a young rabbit, as its meat is more tender and flavorful. If you can't find fresh rabbit, you can use frozen rabbit meat, but ensure it is of good quality.
- Vegetables: Use fresh, seasonal vegetables to achieve the best flavors. Sweet carrots and caramelized onions will add extra flavor to the stew.
- Wine: Red wine is essential for marinating the meat, so choose one that you enjoy drinking at the table.

Preparation technique:
1. Marinating the rabbit: Cut the rabbit into smaller pieces, then place it in a large bowl. Add the red wine, chopped onion, salt, pepper, and spices (bay leaves and thyme). Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it marinate overnight in the refrigerator. This step will help the meat absorb the flavors and become tender.

2. Preparing the vegetables: The next day, remove the rabbit from the marinade and let it drain. In a large skillet or pot, add a few tablespoons of olive oil or butter and sauté the chopped onion until golden. Add the sliced carrots and bell pepper (if using) and continue to sauté for 5-7 minutes.

3. Adding the meat: Place the rabbit pieces in the pot over the vegetables and lightly brown them on all sides. This step will add depth and flavor to the stew.

4. Cooking: Add the sliced mushrooms and pour the marinade (wine and onion) over the meat. Mix well, then cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for 3-4 hours. Check occasionally, and if necessary, add a little water to prevent sticking.

5. Preparing the polenta: About 30 minutes before the stew is ready, prepare the polenta. Boil 1 liter of salted water, then gradually add the cornmeal, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Cook on low heat, stirring occasionally, until it becomes thick and pulls away from the sides of the pot.

6. Finishing the stew: When the meat is tender and flavorful, add the sour cream, stirring gently to give it a creamy texture. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Serving:
Serve the stew hot alongside warm polenta, topped with a spoonful of sour cream. You can add pickles for a pleasant contrast of flavors. It is delightful to enjoy a glass of semi-dry red wine alongside this dish, which will perfectly complement the rich flavor of the stew.

Possible variations:
- You can experiment with different vegetables, such as hot peppers for a spicier taste or potatoes to make the stew heartier.
- Instead of sour cream, you can try Greek yogurt for a lighter, healthier taste.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of meat?
- Yes, you can replace the rabbit with chicken or turkey, but the cooking time may vary.

2. What else can I serve with the stew?
- A fresh seasonal salad would be an excellent choice to add a crunchy contrast.

3. How can I reheat the stew?
- Reheat on low heat on the stovetop or in the oven, adding a little water or wine to maintain moisture.

Nutritional benefits:
Rabbit meat is an excellent source of protein, being leaner than other types of meat. It is rich in vitamins B12 and B6, as well as minerals like phosphorus and selenium. The added vegetables contribute to fiber and micronutrient intake, making this stew not only delicious but also healthy.

With a little patience and love, this Saxon rabbit stew will become a cherished dish that you will enjoy with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!