Crock-Pot Dove
A hearty and flavorful dish featuring tender dove meat simmered with aromatic vegetables and spices in a slow cooker. The rich tomato-based sauce, seasoned with herbs and chilies, creates a comforting meal perfect for game enthusiasts or those seeking a unique poultry dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rub the doves with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet, brown the doves with vegetable oil.
- Saute chopped onion and celery with Worcestershire sauce for 3 minutes.
- Place the browned doves in the crock-pot.
- Pour the sauce over the doves.
- Add the chopped green chilies, chopped onion, chopped celery, flour, canned tomatoes, garlic, marjoram, cumin, oregano, water, and pepper.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 10 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, allow the doves to marinate in the salt and pepper for at least 30 minutes before browning. If you want to enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce directly to the doves while marinating. You can substitute the doves with quail or chicken if needed, but adjust cooking times accordingly. Using a mix of fresh and canned tomatoes can elevate the sauce's flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Crock-Pot Dove with a side of rice or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. A fresh salad, like Methodist Slaw, pairs well for a refreshing contrast. For a complete meal, consider serving with roasted vegetables or marinated vegetables for added texture and flavor. This dish is great for a family gathering or a comforting weeknight dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dove mixture in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. Stir occasionally until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crock-Pot Dove contains roughly 202 calories, with 7g protein, 44g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value) and iron (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1010mg per serving (44% 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 doves for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen doves, but make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before marinating and browning. This will help ensure even cooking and allow the flavors to penetrate the meat effectively.
What can I substitute for the green chilies?
If you prefer less heat, you can substitute the green chilies with bell peppers or omit them altogether. Alternatively, jalapeños can add a spicier kick, but adjust the quantity to your taste.
How can I adjust this recipe for a different size crowd?
To adjust the recipe for more or fewer servings, simply scale the ingredients proportionally. For instance, if you want to feed 24 people, double all ingredients. Keep in mind that cooking times may remain similar, but check the doneness to ensure the doves are cooked through.
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).