Rabbit Casserole

Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of Rabbit Casserole, a comforting dish that combines tender rabbit pieces with tomatoes, carrots, orange zest, and aromatic herbs. This hearty casserole is perfect for a cozy family meal or a special occasion. The rabbit is browned to perfection before being combined with a flavorful sauce and slow-cooked until tender. The addition of brandy and white wine vinegar adds depth and complexity to the dish. With a simple preparation process and a tantalizing aroma that fills your kitchen, Rabbit Casserole is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

INGREDIENTS:

• 25g/1oz butter
• 900g/2lb rabbit pieces
• 200g/7oz tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon cornflour
• 100g/4oz carrot, coarsely grated
• 1 tablespoon finely grated orange zest
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 50ml/2fl oz brandy
• 25ml/1fl oz white wine vinegar
• 375ml/13fl oz warm water
• 2 bay leaves

PREPARATIONS:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/Gas mark 4.
2. In a large frying pan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Brown the rabbit pieces well in the melted butter, turning them frequently.
4. Transfer the browned rabbit pieces to a large casserole dish.
5. Place the tomatoes in a bowl of boiling water and let them sit for 2 minutes. Peel off the skins, then chop the flesh into small cubes. Add the chopped tomatoes to the casserole dish.
6. In a small bowl, combine the cornflour, grated carrot, finely grated orange zest, and dried oregano.
7. Pour the brandy, white wine vinegar, and warm water into the bowl with the cornflour mixture. Stir well to combine.
8. Pour the cornflour mixture over the contents of the casserole dish.
9. Add the bay leaves to the casserole dish.
10. Cover the casserole dish and bake in the preheated oven for 1 1/2 hours, or until the rabbit is tender.
11. Serve the Rabbit Casserole hot, and enjoy the tender rabbit pieces and flavorful sauce.

YIELD:

Serves 4

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• Ensure the rabbit pieces are browned well in the butter to develop a rich flavor.
• Use a large casserole dish to accommodate the rabbit pieces and the flavorful sauce.
• Adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the rabbit becomes tender.
• Serve the Rabbit Casserole with a side of mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

TIPS:

• For an extra burst of flavor, marinate the rabbit pieces in the brandy and white wine vinegar mixture for a few hours before cooking.
• Garnish the Rabbit Casserole with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added freshness and visual appeal.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix some additional cornflour with water and add it to the casserole dish during the last few minutes of cooking, then simmer until the sauce thickens.

In conclusion, Rabbit Casserole is a delightful dish that combines tender rabbit pieces with a flavorful sauce made from tomatoes, carrots, orange zest, and aromatic herbs. The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a comforting and satisfying meal.

Preparing the Rabbit Casserole is relatively straightforward, starting with browning the rabbit pieces to enhance their flavor. The addition of brandy and white wine vinegar adds depth and complexity to the dish. The orange zest provides a subtle citrus note that complements the savory elements.

As the casserole bakes in the oven, the rabbit becomes tender, and the sauce develops a rich and enticing flavor. The dish can be served with mashed potatoes or crusty bread, allowing you to savor every bit of the delicious sauce.

Rabbit Casserole is an excellent choice for a family meal or a special occasion. It offers a unique twist on traditional casseroles, showcasing the delicate and succulent meat of rabbit. The combination of flavors creates a dish that is both comforting and sophisticated.

Next time you’re in the mood for a flavorful and satisfying meal, consider preparing Rabbit Casserole. With its rich taste and inviting aroma, this dish is sure to impress your guests and leave you longing for more.