French Stewed Rabbits. Recipe

French Stewed Rabbits, also known as "Lapin en civet," is a traditional French dish that has its roots in the rich culinary history of France. This recipe has been enjoyed by generations and is known for its hearty flavors and tender rabbit meat. The dish is a perfect example of traditional French cuisine, with its emphasis on slow cooking and the use of aromatic herbs and spices.

Fun fact: The tradition of cooking rabbit in France dates back centuries. Rabbit meat was readily available and affordable, making it a popular choice for many families. Stewing the rabbit in a flavorful broth helped to tenderize the meat and create a deliciously savory dish. French Stewed Rabbits were often served at special occasions and family gatherings, and each region in France has its own unique variation of the recipe.

Now, let's delve into the step-by-step process of preparing this delectable dish:

Ingredients:
- 2 rabbits, cleaned and cut into serving pieces
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 slices of bacon, diced
- 2 onions, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 8 ounces button mushrooms, sliced
- 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 cup red wine
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, season the rabbit pieces with salt and pepper. Sprinkle the flour over the rabbit and toss to coat evenly.

2. Heat the olive oil in a large sauté pan or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the bacon fat in the pan.

3. Working in batches, brown the rabbit pieces in the bacon fat on all sides. This will help to seal in the juices and develop a rich flavor. Remove the browned rabbit pieces and set them aside.

4. In the same pan, add the onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and mushrooms. Sauté the vegetables until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes.

5. Return the bacon to the pan and add the thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.

6. Pour in the red wine and allow it to simmer for a few minutes, scraping the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits.

7. Stir in the tomato paste, then add the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.

8. Reduce the heat to low and return the rabbit pieces to the pan. Cover and let simmer gently for about 1 hour, or until the rabbit is tender. Stir occasionally and add more chicken broth if needed to keep the meat moist.

9. Once the rabbit is tender, remove the pan from the heat. Taste and adjust the seasonings with salt and pepper as desired.

10. To serve, transfer the French Stewed Rabbits to a large platter. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Traditionally, French Stewed Rabbits are served with crusty bread, roasted potatoes, or buttery egg noodles. This dish pairs wonderfully with a glass of red wine, such as a bold Burgundy or Bordeaux.

Fun fact: In France, rabbits are considered a symbol of good luck and prosperity. This belief dates back to ancient times when rabbits were associated with fertility and abundance. The tradition of stewing rabbits has continued through the generations, passing down both the flavors and the symbolism of this delightful dish.

If you enjoy French Stewed Rabbits, you may also enjoy other rabbit dishes from different culinary traditions. Here are a few examples:

- Italian Rabbit Stew: This recipe incorporates classic Italian flavors such as tomatoes, olives, and herbs like rosemary and oregano. The rabbit is simmered in a tomato-based sauce until tender and flavorful.

- Spanish Rabbit Paella: Paella is a beloved Spanish rice dish that can be prepared with various proteins, including rabbit. The tender rabbit meat is cooked with saffron-infused rice, vegetables, and spices, creating a vibrant and aromatic one-pot meal.

- Moroccan Spiced Rabbit Tagine: In Moroccan cuisine, rabbit is often cooked in a traditional tagine. This slow-cooked stew combines rabbit with an array of aromatic spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, resulting in a fragrant and savory dish.

Whether you choose to savor French Stewed Rabbits or explore other rabbit recipes, these dishes offer a delightful culinary adventure that highlights the versatility and flavor of this lean and tender meat. Bon appétit!

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