Rabbit In Bag
Tender rabbit quarters are cooked in a flavorful red wine and celery sauce, sealed in a brown paper bag for a moist and savory meal perfect for hearty dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Combine flour, salt, and pepper in a 10 x 16-inch brown paper bag.
- Add rabbit quarters to the bag and shake gently to coat with the flour mixture.
- Spread out the coated rabbit quarters in the bottom of the bag.
- Add diced celery, butter, and chopped onion (if using) over the rabbit.
- Mix dry red wine with Kitchen Bouquet and pour into the bag.
- Secure the bag with a twist-tie and make several 1/2-inch slits in the top for steam to escape.
- Bake for 1 hour or until the rabbit is tender.
- Serve with sauce spooned over the cooked rabbit.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the rabbit in red wine overnight before cooking. If you don't have Kitchen Bouquet, a bit of soy sauce can provide similar color and flavor. You can also use chicken or other game meats if rabbit is unavailable. To ensure even cooking, try to cut the rabbit into uniform pieces.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the rabbit with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. For an enjoyable dessert, consider serving Florida Lime Pie to finish the meal on a bright note.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover rabbit can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the rabbit in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through. Adding a splash of broth can help keep the meat moist during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rabbit In Bag contains roughly 705 calories, with 6g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 46g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (55% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 a different type of meat instead of rabbit?
Yes, you can substitute rabbit with chicken or other game meats. Just adjust the cooking time depending on the meat you choose, as chicken may require a shorter cooking time to reach tenderness.
What can I serve with Rabbit In Bag?
Rabbit In Bag goes well with sides like creamy polenta, roasted root vegetables, or a light green salad. Pair it with a glass of dry red wine for a delightful dining experience.
How can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can prepare the rabbit and coat it in the flour mixture the night before, then store it in the refrigerator. On the day of serving, simply add the remaining ingredients to the bag and bake as directed for a hassle-free meal.
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).