Fried Quails Hunter-style
Fried Quails Hunter-style Recipe from Romania
Introduction
Fried Quails Hunter-style is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for those who enjoy game meat. The quails are cooked in a Dutch oven with lard and seasoned with salt, resulting in a crispy and juicy dish that is sure to impress your guests.
History
This recipe has its origins in traditional European hunting cuisine, where game meat was often cooked in a simple and rustic manner. The use of lard and simple seasonings highlights the natural flavors of the quails, making it a popular dish among hunters and food enthusiasts alike.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Place 1 tbsp of lard in a Dutch oven and heat it.
- Put the previously salted quails inside and cover them.
- Turn the quails every 2 – 3 minutes.
- Once they turn golden brown, add 2 tbsp of water and simmer them over very low heat for 10 – 15 minutes.
- When they are ready, drizzle a small amount of melted butter or lard over them.
- Serve the dish hot.
Variations
- Add herbs and spices such as thyme, rosemary, or garlic for additional flavor.
- Substitute the lard with olive oil for a lighter and healthier option.
- Serve the quails with a side of creamy polenta or mashed potatoes for a comforting and hearty meal.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to turn the quails regularly to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Be careful not to overcook the quails, as they can become tough and dry.
- Use a Dutch oven for best results, as it helps to retain moisture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Fried Quails Hunter-style with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Techniques
The quails are cooked in a Dutch oven over low heat to ensure that they are cooked through and tender. Turning the quails regularly helps to evenly brown them and seal in the juices for a flavorful and succulent dish.
Ingredient Substitutions
If quails are not available, you can substitute them with Cornish hens or small chickens for a similar flavor and texture.
Make Ahead Tips
You can marinate the quails in advance with your favorite seasonings for added flavor. Store them in the refrigerator until ready to cook.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the Fried Quails Hunter-style on a platter garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Pair this dish with a full-bodied red wine such as Pinot Noir or Merlot for a perfect complement to the rich and savory flavors of the quails.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the quails in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Fried Quails Hunter-style contains approximately 300-400 calories, making it a satisfying and filling meal option.
Carbohydrates
There are minimal carbohydrates in this dish, making it a suitable option for those following a low-carb diet.
Fats
The lard used in this recipe adds a rich and savory flavor to the quails, making it a good source of healthy fats.
Proteins
Quails are a good source of lean protein, making this dish a nutritious option for those looking to increase their protein intake.
Vitamins and minerals
Quails are rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, making this dish a healthy choice for overall health and well-being.
Alergens
This recipe contains lard, which may be a potential allergen for those with sensitivities to pork products.
Summary
Overall, Fried Quails Hunter-style is a nutritious and delicious dish that is rich in protein and essential vitamins and minerals, making it a great option for a balanced diet.
Summary
Fried Quails Hunter-style is a classic and delicious dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in. With its simple ingredients and rustic preparation, this dish is sure to become a favorite among your family and friends. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Fried Quails Hunter-style. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl living in a small village in the countryside. My family didn't have much, but we always had food on the table thanks to my mother's incredible cooking skills.
One day, a group of hunters came to our village and brought with them a bounty of freshly caught quails. They had spent the entire day out in the fields, tracking down the elusive birds, and were kind enough to share some of their catch with our village.
My mother was thrilled at the prospect of cooking with such a delicacy, and she immediately set to work plucking and preparing the quails for a feast. As she worked, the hunters shared stories of their adventures in the woods, and I listened intently, fascinated by their tales of bravery and skill.
One of the hunters, an older man with weathered hands and a twinkle in his eye, noticed my interest and beckoned me over. He handed me a small notebook filled with handwritten recipes and told me that if I wanted to learn how to cook like a true hunter, I should start with this one: Fried Quails Hunter-style.
I eagerly took the notebook and thanked the hunter profusely, promising to put his recipe to good use. That night, my mother cooked up a feast fit for a king, and the Fried Quails Hunter-style were the highlight of the meal. The crispy, golden-brown quails were bursting with flavor, thanks to a secret blend of herbs and spices that the hunter had shared with me.
From that day on, Fried Quails Hunter-style became a staple in our household. Whenever we were lucky enough to come across a fresh batch of quails, my mother would pull out the notebook and whip up a batch of this delicious dish. It became a symbol of our family's resourcefulness and ingenuity, a way to turn humble ingredients into something truly special.
As I grew older, I began to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twists and variations to make it truly my own. I would often invite friends and neighbors over for dinner and serve them my famous Fried Quails Hunter-style, always met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe.
Over the years, I have shared this recipe with countless people, passing down the knowledge and tradition that the hunter had bestowed upon me so many years ago. Each time I cook up a batch of Fried Quails Hunter-style, I am reminded of that fateful day in the village, of the kindness of strangers and the joy of discovery.
Now, as a grandmother myself, I take great pride in passing on this recipe to my own grandchildren, hoping that they will carry on the tradition and continue to spread the joy of Fried Quails Hunter-style for generations to come. And who knows, maybe one day they too will stumble upon a hidden gem of a recipe, just waiting to be shared with the world.