Hasenpfeffer
Hasenpfeffer is a traditional German rabbit stew known for its rich, tangy flavors. The dish features tender rabbit meat braised in a savory-sour sauce, complemented by onions and seasoned with spices. Perfect for hearty, comforting meals, it appeals to lovers of classic European cuisine and game meats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut up the rabbit into serving-sized pieces.
- Dredge the rabbit pieces in a mixture of flour, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Brown the meat in hot cooking oil. Remove the meat from the pan.
- Add flour to the pan, then pour in 1 cup of water, and return the meat to the pan along with the chopped onion, bay leaf, and garlic powder.
- Stir, cover, and simmer until the rabbit is well done.
- Stir in the sour cream and heat the mixture again, but do not let it boil.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, marinate the rabbit in the sour cream mixture overnight before cooking. If rabbit is unavailable, chicken can be a substitute, but adjust the cooking time as needed. Ensure the oil is hot enough before browning to achieve a nice crust. You can also add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added depth, which pairs beautifully with Wiener Schnitzel.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Hasenpfeffer with egg noodles or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of roasted vegetables or a crisp salad can balance the richness of the dish. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a slice of Granny'S Homemade Fruit Cake for dessert to round out the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Hasenpfeffer can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. Avoid boiling, as this can cause the sour cream to curdle.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hasenpfeffer contains roughly 204 calories, with 10g protein, 41g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (71% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (44% of the Daily Value), and iron (41% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1819mg per serving (79% 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 rabbit for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen rabbit. Just ensure it is fully thawed in the refrigerator before cooking to ensure even cooking and proper texture. It’s important to pat it dry before dredging to achieve a good sear.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
If you don't have sour cream, you can substitute plain Greek yogurt for a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture. Alternatively, a mixture of heavy cream with a splash of vinegar or lemon juice can also work well.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add more heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper into the spice mixture. You can also serve the dish with a side of hot sauce for those who prefer extra spice.
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).