Stuffed Grouse
Stuffed grouse features tender game bird filled with a sweet-tart apple and currant mixture, complemented by nutty bread stuffing, ideal for special occasions or hearty family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Shell the pinyon nuts.
- Peel and dice the sour apples.
- Simmer the apples until soft.
- Mix the softened apples, currants, pinyon nuts, salt, pepper, and crumbled wheat bread to make the stuffing.
- Stuff the grouse with the prepared mixture.
- Brush the stuffed birds with butter.
- Wrap each bird in foil or place in cooking bags.
- Bake at 350°F for 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or sage to the stuffing mixture. If pinyon nuts are unavailable, pine nuts or chopped walnuts can serve as great substitutes. Ensure the grouse are thoroughly cooked by checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. To save time, you can prepare the stuffing a day ahead and refrigerate it until ready to use.
Serving Suggestions
Stuffed grouse pairs beautifully with roasted root vegetables and a fresh green salad. For a comforting side, consider serving mashed potatoes or a wild rice pilaf. A light red wine, such as Pinot Noir, complements the dish well, enhancing the flavors of the grouse and stuffing.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover stuffed grouse can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the grouse in a baking dish, cover with foil, and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20-30 minutes, or until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it may dry out the meat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Grouse contains roughly 449 calories, with 7g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 17g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (78% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 794mg per serving (35% 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 other types of game birds for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other game birds such as quail or pheasant. The cooking time may vary slightly depending on the size of the bird, so be sure to adjust accordingly. Just ensure that the stuffing is cooked to the proper temperature and that the bird is thoroughly cooked before serving.
How do I know when the grouse is fully cooked?
The best way to check if the grouse is fully cooked is to use a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh without touching the bone; it should read 165°F. If you don’t have a thermometer, the juices should run clear when pierced, not pink.
Can I prepare the stuffing ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to let it come to room temperature before stuffing the grouse. This will help ensure even cooking when you bake the dish.
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).