Roasted Quails
Roasted Quails Recipe from Romania with Bacon, Lard, Salt and Wine
Introduction
Roasted quails are a delicious and elegant dish that is perfect for a special occasion or a fancy dinner. The combination of tender quail meat and crispy bacon is sure to impress your guests.
History
Roasted quails have been enjoyed for centuries, with references to quail dishes dating back to ancient Roman times. Quails were considered a delicacy by the wealthy and were often served at feasts and banquets.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Wash the quails and season them with salt. Wrap each quail with thin slices of fresh bacon.
- Place the wrapped quails in a pan and add a teaspoon of lard. Pour in the wine. Roast the quails at medium heat, turning them occasionally and basting them with the pan drippings.
Variations
- Instead of bacon, you can wrap the quails in prosciutto or pancetta for a different flavor.
- Add herbs and spices such as rosemary, thyme, or garlic to the quails before roasting for extra flavor.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Make sure to season the quails generously with salt before roasting to enhance the flavor of the meat.
- Basting the quails with the pan drippings while roasting will help keep them moist and flavorful.
- Be careful not to overcook the quails, as they can become tough and dry if cooked for too long.
Serving Suggestions
Roasted quails can be served with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes.
Cooking Techniques
Roasting the quails in the oven at medium heat ensures that they cook evenly and develop a crispy exterior.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have lard, you can use butter or olive oil as a substitute.
Make Ahead Tips
You can season the quails and wrap them in bacon ahead of time, then roast them just before serving.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the roasted quails on a platter garnished with fresh herbs for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
Roasted quails pair well with a light red wine such as Pinot Noir or a crisp white wine like Chardonnay.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftover roasted quails in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at a low temperature until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of roasted quails contains approximately 200 calories.
Carbohydrates
There are no carbohydrates in this recipe.
Fats
Each serving of roasted quails contains approximately 10g of fat.
Proteins
Each serving of roasted quails contains approximately 25g of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Quail meat is a good source of iron, zinc, and vitamin B12.
Alergens
This recipe contains bacon, which may be a potential allergen for some individuals.
Summary
Roasted quails are a high-protein dish that is relatively low in calories and carbohydrates. They are a good source of essential vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Roasted quails are a delicious and elegant dish that is perfect for a special occasion. With a few simple ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a memorable meal that will impress your guests.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Roasted Quails. It was many years ago, during a family trip to Tuscany, Italy. We were staying in a charming villa nestled in the rolling hills of the countryside, surrounded by vineyards and olive groves. One evening, our host, a kind Italian nonna, invited us to a traditional Tuscan dinner in her home.
As we sat down at the long wooden table, the aroma of garlic, rosemary, and roasted meat filled the air. The nonna brought out a platter of golden-brown quails, perfectly roasted and glistening with juices. I had never tasted quail before, and I was immediately intrigued by the delicate flavor and tender texture of the meat.
After dinner, I asked the nonna for her recipe, eager to learn how to recreate this delicious dish at home. She smiled warmly and invited me into her kitchen, where she shared her secrets for making the perfect Roasted Quails.
The first step, she explained, was to marinate the quails in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, rosemary, and lemon juice. This would infuse the meat with a rich, savory flavor and tenderize it for roasting. As the quails soaked up the marinade, I watched as the nonna expertly trussed them with kitchen twine, a technique she had learned from her own grandmother many years ago.
Next, she showed me how to roast the quails in a hot oven, basting them with the marinade every few minutes to keep them moist and flavorful. The aroma that filled the kitchen was intoxicating, and I could hardly wait to taste the finished dish.
Finally, after about 30 minutes, the quails were done. The nonna removed them from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. As we sat down to eat, I took my first bite of the tender, succulent meat, and I was transported back to that magical evening in Tuscany.
Since that day, I have made Roasted Quails many times for my family and friends, always with a smile on my face and a warm heart. Each time I prepare this dish, I think of the kind Italian nonna who shared her recipe with me and the memories of that unforgettable evening in Tuscany.
Now, as I pass this recipe on to you, I hope that it will bring you as much joy and deliciousness as it has brought me over the years. May it become a cherished part of your culinary repertoire, a symbol of love, tradition, and the magic of sharing good food with those you hold dear. Mangia bene! (Eat well!)
Categories
| Bacon Recipes | Quail Recipes | Romanian Meat Dishes | Romanian Recipes | Wine Recipes |