Barbecued Rabbit

Prep: 15 min Cook: 90 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Tender rabbit glazed with a tangy tomato-based barbecue sauce, flavored with garlic, onion, and spices, perfect for a hearty outdoor meal or family dinner.

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Ingredients

  • 1 rabbit
  • 1 3/4 tsp. salt
  • 4 tsp. sugar
  • 3/4 cup catsup
  • 1 Tbsp. pepper
  • 1 clove garlic
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil
  • 1 Tbsp. paprika
  • 1 1/2 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 cup water

Instructions

  1. Rub the rabbit with salt and pepper.
  2. Brown the rabbit in a skillet.
  3. Remove the rabbit and place it in a casserole dish.
  4. Combine all the remaining ingredients in a bowl, mix well, and pour over the rabbit.
  5. Bake uncovered at 350°F for 1 1/2 hours, basting often.

Tips & Substitutions

For enhanced flavor, marinate the rabbit in the seasoning mix overnight. If you can't find rabbit, chicken can be a suitable substitute. Be sure to adjust cooking time based on the size of the meat. If you prefer a spicier sauce, consider adding cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the mix. This dish pairs wonderfully with Tasty Rice And Almond Casserole.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the barbecued rabbit with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh garden salad. It also goes well with cornbread or mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful sauce. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with Beer Hot Dogs for a fun twist. Don't forget to drizzle some extra sauce over the top before serving.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover barbecued rabbit can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, adding a splash of water to keep it moist. It can also be enjoyed cold in salads or sandwiches.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Barbecued Rabbit contains roughly 225 calories, with 5g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2155mg per serving (94% of the Daily Value).

225 kcal 11% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5g 10% DV
Total Fat 10.2g 13% DV
Carbs 31.3g 11% DV
Fiber 3.8g 14% DV
Sugar 4.5g 9% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2155.3mg 94% DV
Potassium 410.1mg 9% DV
Cholesterol 7.1mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 139.8mcg 16% DV
Vitamin C 18.3mg 20% DV
Calcium 74.6mg 6% DV
Iron 2.8mg 15% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal

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 rabbit for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen rabbit, but ensure it is fully thawed before cooking. This may take 24 hours in the refrigerator. Frozen meat might require a slightly longer cooking time, so check for tenderness before serving.

What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?

If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute with soy sauce mixed with a dash of vinegar or lemon juice for acidity. This will provide a similar umami flavor that complements the dish well.

How do I know when the rabbit is done cooking?

The rabbit is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F and is tender when pierced with a fork. The juices should run clear, and the meat should be easily pulled from the bone. Basting helps maintain moisture and flavor throughout the cooking process.

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).

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