Mock Pheasant
A comforting mock pheasant dish featuring tender turkey strips baked in a creamy celery soup sauce, perfect for hearty family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the cream of celery soup and milk together in a bowl.
- Roll the turkey strips in flour.
- Brown the floured turkey strips in a skillet.
- Transfer the browned strips to a large casserole dish.
- Pour the soup and milk mixture over the turkey strips.
- Cover the casserole with a lid or foil.
- Bake at 275°F (135°C) for 3 to 3 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the soup mixture. If you don't have cream of celery soup, you can substitute with cream of mushroom or chicken soup. Additionally, for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free flour to coat the turkey strips. Remember to season the turkey with salt and pepper before browning for enhanced taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Mock Pheasant with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Acorn Squash Rustica for a comforting autumn-themed dinner. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the delicious sauce. A light dessert like Cherry Jubilee Pie would round out the meal nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until heated through, or microwave individual portions for a quick meal. This dish can also be frozen for up to two months; just thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mock Pheasant contains roughly 911 calories, with 17g protein, 151g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (70% of the Daily Value), calcium (66% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (44% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1664mg per serving (72% 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 chicken instead of turkey for this recipe?
Yes, you can easily substitute turkey with chicken breast in this recipe. The cooking times will remain similar, but ensure the chicken is cooked through to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This variation will still yield a flavorful dish, perfect for those who prefer chicken.
What can I serve with Mock Pheasant?
Mock Pheasant pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with steamed green beans or a light salad to balance the richness of the casserole. For a heartier meal, mashed potatoes or wild rice will complement the flavors beautifully, making for a satisfying dinner.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
To create a vegetarian version of Mock Pheasant, replace the turkey strips with firm tofu or seitan, and use vegetable broth or a plant-based cream soup. This will maintain the dish's creamy texture while making it suitable for vegetarians. Season well to ensure it has a robust flavor.
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).