Hazel'S Hassenpfeffer(Rabbit)
Hazel's Hassenpfeffer is a hearty rabbit stew with savory spices, mushrooms, and a rich cream sauce, perfect for those who enjoy flavorful, traditional game dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Skin, dress, draw, and clean the hare.
- Cut the meat from the bones.
- Melt butter in a saucepan.
- Add chopped bacon, chopped carrots, bay leaf, cloves, minced garlic, salt, pepper, mustard seed, chopped onion, canned mushrooms, and hare meat to the saucepan.
- Brown the mixture well.
- Add 1 cup water or vinegar.
- Cover and simmer until tender, about an hour.
- Add cream, mix well, and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the hare in red wine with garlic and herbs overnight. If you can't find hare, rabbit is a great substitute. Ensure to adjust cooking times as rabbit may cook faster. You can also replace canned mushrooms with fresh ones for added texture. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the hassenpfeffer over a bed of buttery noodles or creamy polenta to soak up the flavorful sauce. A side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad complements this dish well. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a glass of red wine, which enhances the rich flavors. This dish also pairs beautifully with German Beef Rouladen.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the hassenpfeffer in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. Cover and heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. It can also be enjoyed cold in salads for a refreshing twist.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hazel'S Hassenpfeffer(Rabbit) contains roughly 347 calories, with 10g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value), iron (39% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 836mg per serving (36% 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 hare or rabbit for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen hare or rabbit. Be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking, as this ensures even cooking. It’s best to prepare the meat right after thawing to maintain its moisture and flavor.
What can I serve with hassenpfeffer?
Hassenpfeffer pairs excellently with sides like spaetzle, mashed potatoes, or roasted root vegetables. A crisp, tangy salad can provide a nice contrast to the richness of the dish. For a festive touch, consider serving it alongside traditional German sides like red cabbage.
How can I make this dish less rich?
To make hassenpfeffer a bit lighter, you can reduce the amount of butter used or substitute with olive oil. Additionally, using low-fat cream or yogurt in place of heavy cream can help cut down on richness while still adding a creamy texture.
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).