Rabbit Salmi
Rabbit Salmi is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring tender rabbit cooked in a rich, savory sauce with olives, capers, and Worcestershire, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place rabbit in a baking pan and add sliced onion, diced celery, and bay leaves.
- Brush the rabbit with oil and roast in a 350°F oven for 45 minutes.
- Remove the meat from the pan, add fat and flour, and stir until the sauce becomes a rich brown.
- Add hot water, stirring well to create a smooth sauce.
- Add salt, Worcestershire sauce, capers, and olives to the sauce.
- Return the meat to the pan, cover tightly, and roast in the 350°F oven for an additional 80 minutes or until tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, you can marinate the rabbit overnight in the cooking oil with chopped garlic and herbs. If you don't have rabbit, chicken thighs work well as a substitute. Make sure to adjust cooking time accordingly. Adding a splash of red wine to the sauce can enhance the depth of flavor, similar to how it's done in Sopa Espanola.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Rabbit Salmi with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, or alongside creamy mashed potatoes for a heartier meal. A side of sautéed greens or a fresh salad complements the dish well. This dish also pairs beautifully with South Carolina Chicken Bog, making it a great option for a family gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Rabbit Salmi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in a covered dish in the oven at 350°F for about 20-25 minutes, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much. This will help retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rabbit Salmi contains roughly 1167 calories, with 17g protein, 102g carbohydrates, and 90g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (121% of the Daily Value), and calcium (79% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 913mg per serving (40% 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 rabbit for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen rabbit. Just make sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator before cooking. This will ensure even cooking and help maintain the texture. Allow extra time for marinating if desired.
What can I substitute for capers?
If you don't have capers, you can use green olives or a splash of lemon juice for a similar tangy flavor. Alternatively, chopped pickles can work in a pinch, but the flavor will differ slightly.
How do I know when the rabbit is done cooking?
The rabbit is done cooking when it is tender and easily pulls away from the bone. You can also use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach at least 160°F. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
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).