Wild Dove Delicious
Tender dove breasts seasoned with thyme, browned in butter, and slowly simmered to perfection, served with wild rice for a flavorful and elegant poultry dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Salt and pepper dove breasts to taste and dredge in flour.
- Heat butter in a heavy skillet and brown dove breasts nicely.
- Sprinkle with thyme and add cream.
- Cover tightly and simmer very slowly until tender, about 1 1/2 hours.
- Serve dove on a platter of wild rice.
- Gravy may be thinned with milk, if necessary, and served separately.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, let the dove breasts marinate in salt and pepper for at least 30 minutes before dredging in flour. If you don't have thyme, consider using rosemary or sage as alternatives. For a richer sauce, you can add a splash of white wine before simmering. Ensure the skillet is hot enough to achieve a nice browning on the dove, as this enhances the dish's overall taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the dove on a bed of wild rice, which complements its rich flavors. Consider adding a side of sautéed green beans or a fresh salad for a balance of textures. For a delightful touch, serve with a small bowl of gravy on the side for drizzling over the dove or rice.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover dove in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the dove in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. Cover the skillet to retain heat and prevent drying out, reheating until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wild Dove Delicious contains roughly 21 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 485mg per serving (21% 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 dove breasts for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen dove breasts. Just ensure they are fully thawed in the refrigerator before cooking. This allows for even seasoning and cooking. Thawing overnight is best, but if you're pressed for time, you can use the microwave's defrost setting, being careful not to start cooking the meat.
What is the best way to tell when the dove is done cooking?
The dove is done cooking when its internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the meat is tender. A fork should easily pierce the meat. It's important to simmer it slowly to ensure it becomes tender and flavorful, so check periodically during cooking.
Can I make this recipe using a different type of game bird?
Absolutely! This recipe can easily be adapted for other game birds like quail or pheasant. Adjust the cooking time based on the size of the bird; smaller birds may require less time, while larger ones may need more. The key is to ensure they are cooked through and tender.
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).