Tender Pheasant
Tender Pheasant offers a rich, flavorful experience with tender meat cooked in a savory broth, complemented by mushrooms and onions. The creamy sauce adds depth, making it perfect for special occasions or a comforting family dinner, served over rice, pasta, or potatoes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Flour the pheasants or pheasant breasts.
- Brown the floured pheasant in butter and peanut oil.
- Place the browned pheasant in a casserole that can be used on a burner.
- Add beef broth to the casserole.
- Cook at a slow heat for 2 1/2 hours.
- Saute chopped onions and sliced mushrooms in butter in a separate pan.
- Add Worcestershire sauce, catsup, 2 tablespoons of flour, and the broth from cooking the pheasant.
- Add sour cream last, stirring gently.
- Do not boil after adding sour cream.
- Garnish with chopped parsley and serve over rice, pasta, or potatoes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using duck fat instead of peanut oil. If you don't have beef broth, chicken broth can serve as a suitable substitute. To enhance the dish's complexity, add a splash of white wine while sautéing the onions and mushrooms. If you want a little heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the tender pheasant over a bed of fluffy rice, pasta, or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. This dish pairs well with steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. For a heartier option, consider serving alongside a classic American recipe like Husband'S Delight(Mine, For Sure!) to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the pheasant in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist. Alternatively, use a microwave, covered, on low power, checking frequently to prevent overheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tender Pheasant contains roughly 396 calories, with 17g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (102% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (54% of the Daily Value), and potassium (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 chicken instead of pheasant?
Yes, chicken can be used as a substitute, though you may need to adjust cooking times as chicken breasts typically cook faster than pheasant. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F for safety. The sauce will still be delicious with chicken, maintaining a similar flavor profile.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening the sauce. Ensure that the broth and Worcestershire sauce you use are also gluten-free to avoid any cross-contamination.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during the cooking process for an aromatic boost. A dash of lemon juice at the end can brighten the flavors as well. You might also explore adding a splash of soy sauce for a savory depth, complementing the Worcestershire sauce.
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).