"Birds"
A hearty, rustic dish featuring tender roasted game birds infused with smoky bacon flavor, complemented by a rich browned flour gravy. Perfect for special gatherings or gourmet dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Salt and pepper the birds.
- Place the birds in a roasting pan and lay bacon strips over them.
- Partly cover the pan with water.
- Steam covered on top of the stove for 2.5 to 3 hours or until tender.
- Spread flour in a shallow pan and bake in a 300°F oven for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until browned.
- Brown butter in a skillet.
- When the birds are tender, increase heat and add more water if necessary to make enough gravy.
- Sprinkle 3 or 4 tablespoons of browned flour over the gravy, adding the remaining flour to water in the pan.
- Pour hot browned butter over the birds.
- Place the pan in a 400°F oven and bake for 15 to 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the birds in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before cooking. If you prefer a healthier option, you can substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon. Ensure to adjust the cooking time if using larger birds like squab. Using a meat thermometer can help achieve the right tenderness; aim for an internal temperature of 165°F.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the birds with a side of roasted vegetables or a Hearty Salad for a balanced meal. A light white wine or sparkling water pairs nicely with this dish. For a comforting side, consider mashed potatoes or creamy polenta to soak up the flavorful gravy. This dish pairs beautifully with Peggy'S Cheese Dip as an appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, which helps retain moisture. You can also enjoy the leftovers in salads or sandwiches for a delicious twist on your next meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of "Birds" contains roughly 564 calories, with 16g protein, 114g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (39% of the Daily Value) and protein (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1765mg per serving (77% 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 different types of birds for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute doves with quail or squab based on availability. Each type of bird has a unique flavor profile, so adjust cooking times accordingly, as squab may require slightly less time than doves.
How do I know when the birds are done cooking?
The birds are done when they are tender and the juices run clear. Using a meat thermometer can help; the internal temperature should reach 165°F. If they aren't tender after the suggested cooking time, continue to steam them until they reach the desired tenderness.
What can I do with leftover gravy?
Leftover gravy can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. It’s perfect for drizzling over potatoes, rice, or even pasta. You can also use it as a base for soups or stews, adding more vegetables or protein to create a hearty dish.
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).