Barbecued Dove
Juicy barbecued dove breasts infused with bold spices, grilled over hot coals for a smoky flavor. Perfect for game meat lovers and outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash dove breasts thoroughly.
- Prepare a marinade with oil, vinegar, salt, black pepper, cayenne, and garlic powder.
- Place dove breasts in a closed wire basket.
- Arrange the basket approximately 1 foot above white hot charcoal with all starter burned off.
- Sop the breasts frequently with the marinade to keep them moist.
- Cook until medium rare; do not overcook.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, marinate the dove breasts for a few hours or overnight if time permits. If you don't have black pepper, you can substitute with white pepper, though it may alter the taste slightly. Adjust cayenne to your heat preference; try smoked paprika for a different flavor profile. It's crucial to keep the breasts moist while cooking, so frequent basting is key.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the barbecued dove with a side of Easy Pickled Beans for a refreshing contrast. A light salad dressed with Sweet And Sour Poppy Seed Dressing complements the rich flavors beautifully. For a heartier meal, pair it with cornbread or a squash and pepper skillet. A chilled white wine can enhance the dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover barbecued dove can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dove on a grilling rack or in a skillet over medium heat, basting with leftover marinade until heated through without drying out. Avoid microwave reheating as it can lead to toughness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecued Dove contains roughly 3640 calories, with 59g protein, 278g carbohydrates, and 318g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (469% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (402% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1892mg per serving (82% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen dove for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen dove breasts. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before marinating. Ensure they are completely thawed to allow the marinade to penetrate evenly for the best flavor.
What if I don't have a wire basket for grilling?
If you don’t have a wire basket, you can use skewers to grill the dove breasts. Just make sure to soak wooden skewers in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning. Alternatively, you can use a grill pan.
How can I tell when the dove is done cooking?
The dove is best served medium rare, so aim for an internal temperature of about 145°F (63°C). The meat should be slightly pink in the center but not raw. Using a meat thermometer can help ensure perfect doneness.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).