Quail Hunter'S Bounty
A hearty dish featuring tender quail breasts in a creamy mushroom and apple gravy, perfect for elegant dinners or special occasions with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place quail breasts in a pan of water and boil for 10 minutes. Drain and arrange breasts in a baking dish.
- Make gravy by combining one can of cream of mushroom soup, 1/2 cup water, and the diced apple.
- Cook the gravy in a small saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly. Remove from heat when it begins to boil.
- Pour the gravy over the quail breasts.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the dish and bake at 350°F for 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the quail breasts in olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a few hours before cooking. If you're out of cream of mushroom soup, you can substitute with homemade mushroom cream sauce or a different canned soup like cream of chicken for a twist. Be sure to check the doneness of the quail, as they can dry out if overcooked.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the quail with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. It pairs beautifully with Cheese-Sausage Corn Bread, adding a comforting touch to your dining experience. A light white wine or a fruity cider can complement the dish nicely, enhancing the flavors of the apple in the gravy.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover quail in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the quail in a preheated oven at 325°F until warmed through, which helps maintain moisture. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, on low power to avoid drying them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quail Hunter'S Bounty contains roughly 67 calories, with 1g protein, 8g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (13% 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 quail breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen quail breasts, but ensure they are fully thawed before cooking. This will help them cook evenly and prevent any texture issues. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
What can I serve with quail for a complete meal?
Quail pairs well with a variety of sides, such as creamy mashed potatoes, sautéed greens, or wild rice. For a special touch, consider serving it with a fruit compote or roasted seasonal vegetables to enhance the dish's flavors.
How do I know when the quail is fully cooked?
The quail is fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F. You can check this with a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast. Additionally, the meat should be opaque and juices should run clear when pierced.
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).