Rabbit Divan
Rabbit Divan is a comforting casserole that combines tender cooked rabbit with vibrant broccoli, all enveloped in a creamy mushroom sauce. The dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, offering a delightful blend of savory flavors and a hint of tanginess from the lemon juice.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook broccoli partially according to package directions; drain.
- Layer broccoli and rabbit in a 9 x 13-inch baking dish.
- Combine mushroom soup, mayonnaise, milk, and lemon juice in a bowl; mix well.
- Pour the mixture over the layers in the baking dish.
- Sprinkle with cheese.
- Bake at 350° for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a splash of white wine to the mushroom soup mixture. If you don't have rabbit, cooked chicken or turkey can be great substitutes. To enhance the flavor, sprinkle some garlic powder or onion powder into the soup mix. This dish can also be topped with breadcrumbs for added crunch. Pair it with a side of rice salad for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Rabbit Divan hot from the oven, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables, enhancing the meal's overall freshness. Consider serving it alongside drop biscuits for a comforting touch, making it a hearty and satisfying dinner option.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rabbit Divan contains roughly 444 calories, with 17g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (40% of the Daily Value), protein (34% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (26% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 541mg per serving (24% 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 fresh broccoli instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use fresh broccoli. Steam it lightly before layering it with the rabbit to ensure it cooks evenly in the oven. Fresh broccoli will provide a nice crunch and vibrant color to the dish.
What can I substitute for cream of mushroom soup?
If you prefer a homemade option, you can make a simple white sauce with butter, flour, and vegetable broth, adding sautéed mushrooms for flavor. This will give you a similar creamy texture without using canned soup.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, Rabbit Divan can be frozen before baking. Assemble the dish and cover tightly with plastic wrap, then aluminum foil. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To bake from frozen, allow it to thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then bake as directed.
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).