Sherried Doves
Tender dove breasts simmered in sherry with garlic, served over hot rice for an elegant and flavorful poultry dish perfect for special occasions or sophisticated dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sprinkle dove breasts with salt and pepper.
- Melt butter in a 10-inch cast-iron skillet or heavy saucepan.
- Place dove breasts in skillet; add sherry and sliced garlic.
- Cover and bake at 400°F for 35 to 40 minutes.
- Remove breasts and keep warm; reserve 2 cups of pan drippings, adding water if necessary.
- Mix cornstarch with hot water to make a slurry.
- Add the cornstarch mixture to the pan drippings and cook until the sauce thickens.
- Serve the dove breasts with the sherry sauce over hot cooked rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, marinate the dove breasts in sherry for a few hours before cooking. If sherry isn't available, a dry white wine can serve as a substitute. Ensure the pan drippings are well-seasoned, as this will greatly affect the sauce's taste. Use a heavy-bottomed skillet to prevent burning the butter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the sherried doves over a bed of hot cooked rice to soak up the delicious sauce. Complement the dish with steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal. This recipe pairs beautifully with Buttermilk Honey Rolls for a delightful contrast in flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover dove breasts can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of sherry or water to keep them moist. Avoid microwaving, as it can dry out the meat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sherried Doves contains roughly 702 calories, with 18g protein, 121g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (276% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), and protein (36% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1586mg per serving (69% 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 a different type of bird instead of dove?
Yes, you can substitute dove with quail or chicken breasts. Adjust the cooking time as needed, especially for larger cuts like chicken, which may require longer baking to ensure they're fully cooked.
What type of sherry should I use?
Opt for a dry sherry, such as Fino or Amontillado, for this recipe. Sweet sherries may alter the flavor profile significantly, making the sauce too sugary. A decent quality sherry will enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stove, adding a bit more water or sherry to adjust the consistency if it has thickened.
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).