Pa’s Rabbit Stew Recipe 🐰🍲
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Description:
Pa’s Rabbit Stew is a cherished family recipe passed down through generations. Originating from Holland, where rabbits were raised both for show and sustenance, this stew captures the essence of rustic European cooking. In New Zealand, where the recipe evolved, it became a comforting staple for large families. Now, adapted for modern kitchens, this savory dish is perfect for busy weeknights, simmered to tender perfection on the stove top. 🕰️
Ingredients:
- 1 rabbit 🐇
- Salt, to taste 🧂
- Pepper, to taste 🌶️
- 50g of butter 🧈
- 250-375ml of hot water 💧
- 1-1½ bouquet garni 🌿
- 1 onion, finely chopped 🧅
Instructions:
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Saute Onion: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until golden brown and fragrant, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
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Brown Rabbit: Once the onion is caramelized, add the rabbit pieces to the saucepan. Increase the heat to medium-high and fry them in the butter until evenly browned and sealed, enhancing their flavor and texture.
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Simmer with Water: Pour in the hot water, ensuring it covers the rabbit pieces adequately. Reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer gently for 1 to 1.5 hours. It’s essential to maintain a gentle simmer, with the water only just moving, as boiling can toughen the meat.
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Enhance Flavor (Optional): Traditionally, Pa makes this stew without the bouquet garni, relying solely on the natural flavors of the rabbit. However, if using farmed rabbits, which may have a milder taste, consider adding 1-1½ bouquet garni to infuse the stew with aromatic herbs and elevate its savory profile.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the rabbit is tender and infused with the rich flavors of the stew, it’s ready to serve. Ladle generous portions into bowls, ensuring each serving includes tender rabbit pieces, aromatic onions, and flavorful broth.
Pa’s Rabbit Stew is best enjoyed piping hot, served alongside crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes. 🥖🥔 It’s a hearty and satisfying dish that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table, reminiscent of old-world European charm and the simple joys of family cooking. Bon appétit! 🍽️✨
