Tuscan rabbit with rosemary

Tuscan rabbit with rosemary: a culinary journey in the heart of Italy

If you have ever had the chance to stroll through the picturesque landscapes of Tuscany, you know that this region is renowned not only for its enchanting scenery but also for its rustic and flavorful cuisine. Game dishes, such as rabbit, are highly appreciated and frequently found in authentic restaurants. In this recipe, we will discover how to prepare a delicious Tuscan rabbit with rosemary, a recipe that blends tradition with simplicity and promises to transport us to the feasts enjoyed in the medieval castles of this wonderful region.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Total: 2 hours
Number of servings: 4

Necessary ingredients:
- 2 rabbit thighs (preferably from the back for more meat)
- 1 sprig of fresh green rosemary
- 1 head of garlic
- 1 small onion
- 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 cup of dry white wine (choose a quality wine, it will make a difference!)
- Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish:
- 250 g of fresh mushrooms (a good choice are champignon or porcini mushrooms)
- 1 onion (to complement the mushrooms)
- 1 bell pepper (red or yellow, for added color)
- A handful of fresh chopped parsley

1. Preparing the rabbit
The first step to achieving a perfect dish is to take care of the rabbit thighs. These should be carefully washed under cold running water and then thoroughly dried with a kitchen towel. Season the thighs with salt and pepper, making sure to massage them well with the spices. This will help intensify the flavors.

2. Preparing the cooking dish
Choose a ceramic dish or a baking tray that retains heat well. Grease the dish with a tablespoon of olive oil, then place the rabbit thighs in the dish. Drizzle the remaining olive oil on top. Now, break the rosemary sprig and sprinkle it evenly over the meat. Cut the onion in half and place it in the dish alongside the whole head of garlic, with its skin on.

3. Initial baking
Preheat the oven to maximum temperature. Place the dish in the oven and let it brown for about 25 minutes. This step will help develop a delicious crust on the meat. After this period, reduce the oven temperature to 180 degrees Celsius and let it bake for another hour.

4. Adding the wine
Once the thighs are cooked, it's time to add the white wine. This will enrich the sauce and add a distinct flavor to the dish. Leave the dish in the oven for another 15 minutes, during which the wine's aroma will blend with the other ingredients. You will notice a savory sauce forming, perfect for serving alongside the meat.

5. Preparing the garnish
In a separate skillet, add a little olive oil and sauté the chopped onion until it becomes translucent. Add the sliced mushrooms and diced bell pepper. If desired, you can add a splash of wine to the skillet, to create a connection between the garnish and the rabbit sauce. Once the alcohol has evaporated, sprinkle the fresh chopped parsley, which will add a note of freshness to the dish.

Serving suggestions
This Tuscan rabbit with rosemary pairs perfectly with a dry red wine, such as Fetească Neagră. Additionally, if you want to add a touch of elegance, you can serve the dish on a bed of mashed potatoes or alongside a fresh green salad. The robust flavor of the rabbit will be complemented by the smooth texture of the puree, while the salad will provide a pleasant contrast.

Nutritional details
Rabbit meat is an excellent source of protein, with a lower fat content compared to other types of meat. It is rich in B vitamins, essential for energy metabolism, and minerals such as iron, which contributes to the health of the circulatory system. Rosemary, in addition to its distinct aroma, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making this recipe not only a delicious choice but also a healthy one.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen rabbit meat?
Yes, but make sure to fully thaw it before cooking for even cooking.

2. What other herbs can I use instead of rosemary?
If you don't have rosemary, you can try thyme or sage, each bringing a unique flavor.

3. How can I make the sauce even richer?
You can add a tablespoon of butter at the end, stirring well to thicken the sauce and give it a creamy texture.

4. What other recommended side dish can I use?
Besides mushrooms, you can serve the rabbit with grilled vegetables or even a creamy risotto.

Possible variations
If you want to experiment, you can replace the white wine with red wine or add green or black olives during baking for a more pronounced Mediterranean flavor. Another variation would be to add a few slices of lemon to the dish, which will add a note of freshness and a pleasant contrast to the richness of the meat.

The Tuscan rabbit with rosemary is more than just a simple recipe; it is an invitation to enjoy the authentic flavors of Tuscany, to gather your family around the table, and to savor every bite. Enjoy your meal and happy cooking!