Garlic-Marinated Rabbit

This garlic-marinated rabbit recipe offers an exquisite way to enjoy this often-overlooked meat. With flavors deeply infused through a simple yet flavorful marinade, the dish becomes an elegant highlight of any meal. Rabbit is a lean meat, which takes well to flavorful herbs and spices, making it a healthy option showcasing the aromatic blend of garlic and mixed herbs. A squeeze of lemon adds a bright note to enhance the overall profile, while olive oil infuses richness and moisture during grilling. This preparation results in a tender, juicy rabbit with a crispy exterior, perfect for serving alongside seasonal vegetables or a light salad. The aroma of garlic combined with the smoky grill scent will fill your kitchen, tempting you long before the rabbit is ready to serve. This recipe is a wonderful choice for those seeking to explore new culinary options and experience the robust, sophisticated flavors that arise from simple ingredients. Whether for a special occasion or a weekend barbecue, this dish is sure to impress family and guests alike. Experience the unique and tender flavors of rabbit with this delightful recipe.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 rabbit
• 6 cloves of garlic
• 4 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1/2 lemon

Herbs & Spices:

• 2 tablespoons dried herbs (dill, parsley, celery)
• Freshly ground pepper

Preparation Time

• Total Time: Approximately 160 minutes (including marination and cooking time).

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Begin by peeling and finely chopping the garlic cloves.
2. In a bowl, combine the chopped garlic with olive oil, mixing well to form a garlic-infused oil.
3. Place the rabbit on a working surface. Generously coat it with the garlic oil, ensuring you rub both the inside and outside for an even marinade.
4. Sprinkle the dried herbs across the rabbit, followed by a fine dusting of freshly ground pepper to taste.
5. Slice the lemon into thin rounds and place these inside the cavity of the rabbit.
6. Cover the rabbit and let it sit to marinate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to permeate the meat.
7. Preheat your grill to 180 degrees Celsius (356 Fahrenheit) in preparation for cooking.
8. Once ready, place the rabbit on the grill, directly on the grates.
9. Begin grilling the rabbit, turning it occasionally, and frequently basting with leftover garlic oil to maintain moisture and enhance flavor.
10. Cook the rabbit thoroughly until the internal juices run clear and the exterior is crisp and golden.
11. Once finished, remove the rabbit from the grill and let rest briefly to retain its juices.
12. Carve the rabbit as desired, ensuring neat serving portions.
13. Present the rabbit with a garnish of fresh herbs or paired with vibrant grilled vegetables.
14. For extra flair, drizzle any remaining garlic oil or a fresh squeeze of lemon over the carved rabbit.
15. Serve immediately, enjoying the rich and savory mixture of garlic and herbs with each bite.

Tips

• Choose fresh herbs if available for a more vibrant flavor profile.
• Adjust the garlic quantity to your taste preference.
• Ensure thorough marination for maximum flavor absorption.

Nutrition

• Estimated per serving: 350 calories, 30g proteins, 20g fats, 5g carbs

Variations

• Substitute herbs with others such as rosemary or thyme for different flavor nuances.
• For a spicier kick, add a touch of chili flakes.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with roasted vegetables or a simple green salad.
• Serve alongside crusty bread and a crisp white wine for a complete meal.

Best Places

• Le Lapin Sauté - A charming bistro known for its delightful rabbit dishes. Location: 52 Rue du Petit Champlain, Québec City, Canada.
• Osteria Bruges - Offers an authentic Italian menu with a standout rabbit recipe. Location: Langestraat 109, Bruges, Belgium.
• Au Bonheur des Dames - Renowned for its traditional French rabbit delicacies. Location: 14 Rue des Trois Frères, Paris, France.
• Babel - Incorporates rich Middle-Eastern spices into its succulent rabbit offerings. Location: Outpost Street, Cape Town, South Africa.
• The River Café - Combines quintessential British style with a unique rabbit dish. Location: Thames Wharf, Rainville Rd, London, UK.
• Ristorante il Desco - Offers refined Italian cuisine, spotlighting their exquisite rabbit. Location: Via Dietro San Sebastiano, Verona, Italy.
• José María - Features classic Spanish rabbit recipes with a modern twist. Location: Calle Cronista Lecea, Segovia, Spain.
• The French Laundry - Known for its upscale adventurous fare, including a luxurious rabbit special. Location: 6640 Washington St, Yountville, USA.
• Mason's - Offers farm-fresh ingredients showcasing rabbit as a staple. Location: Collins Road, Sydney, Australia.
• Restaurant Buchinger - Elevates rustic Austrian cuisine with a refined rabbit dish. Location: Sonnenstraße 6, Vienna, Austria.