Pheasant Baked in A Blanket Recipe
Overview:
This delightful dish, known as Pheasant Baked in A Blanket, is a savory creation perfect for a special occasion or a comforting weeknight meal. Originally discovered on a hunting site, it has become a cherished recipe for those who appreciate the rich flavors of wild game. If time is of the essence, you can opt for a shortcut by substituting frozen pie crust dough and canned chicken gravy. With its blend of tender pheasant, aromatic vegetables, and a comforting pastry blanket, this dish is sure to become a favorite at your table.
Ingredients:
For the Pheasant:
- 1 pheasant
- 3/4 onion
- 3 tbsp butter
- 3/4 cup margarine
- 3/4 carrot
- 2 celery stalks
- 3/4 cup parsley
- 1/8 tsp salt
- 1 1/2 tsp pepper
- 1 cup flour
- 2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup shortening
- Water
For the Vegetable Stuffing:
- Giblets (from the pheasant)
- Reserved neck
- 1 onion
- 1 carrot
- 2 celery stalks
- 2 tbsp butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 739
- Fat: 36.7g
- Saturated Fat: 13.3g
- Cholesterol: 184.1mg
- Sodium: 1202.5mg
- Carbohydrates: 41.5g
- Fiber: 2.6g
- Sugar: 2.7g
- Protein: 57.1g
Instructions:
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
-
Preparation of Pheasant:
- Remove pin feathers from the pheasant and singe according to directions.
- Rinse the pheasant inside and out with several changes of warm water, then drain well.
- Remove the neck and set aside to cook with giblets for gravy.
-
Prepare Vegetable Stuffing:
- In a skillet, lightly sauté the onion in heated butter until translucent.
- Add chopped carrot, celery, parsley, salt, and pepper. Toss to mix well.
-
Stuff the Pheasant:
- Fill the salted cavity of the pheasant with the prepared vegetable stuffing.
- Truss the pheasant to secure the stuffing inside.
-
Make the Dough Blanket:
- Sift together flour and salt in a bowl.
- Cut in margarine and shortening with a pastry blender or two knives until particles are the size of rice grains.
- Gradually add water, stirring until a soft dough forms.
- Roll out the dough on a lightly floured surface into a rectangular sheet about 15 by 10 inches.
-
Wrap the Pheasant:
- Carefully wrap the rolled-out dough around the pheasant, ensuring it is completely covered.
- Moisten the edges of the dough and pinch together to seal.
-
Roasting:
- Place the pheasant, breast side up, on a trivet in a shallow roasting pan.
- Roast uncovered in a preheated moderate oven (350°F or 175°C) for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the pheasant is cooked through and the pastry is golden brown.
-
Prepare Giblet Gravy:
- While the pheasant is roasting, prepare giblet gravy using the drippings.
- Break away the crusty golden brown blanket in pieces and serve alongside the pheasant and giblet gravy.
-
Serve:
- Once the pheasant is cooked to perfection and the gravy is ready, serve hot, allowing everyone to enjoy the delicious flavors of this comforting dish.
Recipe Notes:
- If you’re short on time, consider using frozen pie crust dough and canned chicken gravy as convenient alternatives.
- Ensure the pheasant is fully cooked before serving, as wild game requires thorough cooking to ensure safety.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an extra burst of flavor and visual appeal.
- Pair this dish with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes, for a complete and satisfying meal.
This Pheasant Baked in A Blanket recipe is a true delight for lovers of wild game, offering a flavorful and comforting dining experience that’s perfect for any occasion. Try it out and savor the rich flavors and tender textures of this delicious dish! 🍽️🦃