Ingredients

1 whole pheasant
salt & freshly ground black pepper
thin sheets pork fat or blanched sliced bacon
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3/4 cup slivered shallots or 3/4 cup green onion
1/2 teaspoon crushed juniper berries
2 bay leaves
2/3 cup good gin
1/4 cup dry sherry
3 cups rich game bird stock or 3 cups chicken stock
3 tablespoons minced parsley
2 tablespoons butter ( optional )
Pheasant is a commonly used game bird in traditional British cuisine, often served during the fall and winter months for its hearty flavor. This recipe takes the classic roasting technique and transforms it into a tender and flavorful braised dish with the addition of juniper berries and gin. Juniper berries are the key ingredient in gin, providing a herbal taste with a note of piney bitterness. Combined with the nutty and rich taste of pheasant, your taste buds will be delighted with the unique flavor experience. This dish is perfect for a special night in with your loved ones or a fancy dinner party.

Instructions

1.Preheat the oven to 350°F.
2.Season the pheasant with salt and black pepper, then layer with pork fat or bacon.
3.In a large Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat and brown the pheasant on all sides.
4.Transfer the pheasant to a plate and add the shallots or green onion, juniper berries, bay leaves, gin, and sherry to the pot. Simmer until the liquid is reduced by half.
5.Add the stock and return the pheasant to the pot. Cover and transfer to the oven for 1 hour, basting occasionally.
6.Remove the pheasant from the pot and let it rest for 10 minutes. Optional: whisk in the butter to make the sauce creamy.
7.Serve the pheasant with the sauce and garnish with minced parsley.

PROS

This dish has a unique and complex flavor due to the combination of gin and juniper berries.
The meat becomes juicy and tender during braising.

It is an impressive dish to serve to guests for dinner parties or special occasions.

CONS

Pheasant may not be easy to find in regular grocery stores, and it can be expensive.
It may not be a suitable dish for those who do not like gamey meat or are not adventurous with their food choices.

Braising in gin and juniper berries makes it not an appropriate dish to serve to minors or individuals who do not consume alcohol.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Pheasant is a lean protein source containing no carbs, but high in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is also low in fat and cholesterol compared to chicken and beef.
Juniper berries contain antioxidants that help fight inflammation and improve digestion. Gin has a possible health benefit of reducing the risk of heart disease due to its plant-based compounds.

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