Cannelloni with Gamey Meat and Basil

This delightful cannelloni recipe combines the unique flavors of gamey meat with the aromatic essence of basil. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this dish is both hearty and flavorful. The soft cream cheese adds a creamy texture that balances the robust taste of the wild meat, while the reduced-fat cottage cheese keeps it light. The basil contributes a fresh and herbaceous touch, elevating the dish. Aromatic spices bring warmth to every bite, creating a symphony of flavors. This Italian-inspired recipe is not only mouthwatering but also easy to prepare. Whether you’re an experienced chef or a beginner, these step-by-step instructions will guide you seamlessly. Enjoy this comfort food with family and friends and savor the delightful combination of textures and flavors. Serve it with a green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal experience.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 12 cannelloni tubes
• 150 g soft cream cheese
• 300 g reduced-fat cottage cheese
• 30 g chickpeas
• 1 Baltic Wild Game (as a substitute, use any game meat available)
• 250 g canned wild boar meat
• 30 g fresh basil, chopped

Spices and Sauces

• Aromatic pepper
• 150 g heavy cream
• Salt to taste

Preparation Time

Preparation and Cooking: 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start by mixing half of the reduced-fat cottage cheese in a large bowl.
2. Add the canned wild boar meat and aromatic pepper to the cottage cheese, combining well.
3. Finely chop the fresh basil using a kitchen knife and add it to the meat mixture, stirring until all ingredients are well incorporated.
4. Using a small spoon or piping bag, fill each of the cannelloni tubes with the meat mixture, being careful not to overfill.
5. In a separate bowl, whip the heavy cream together with the remaining cottage cheese.
6. Add a pinch of salt and a sprinkle of aromatic pepper to the cream mixture for added flavor.
7. Spread the whipped cream and cheese mixture evenly at the bottom of a baking dish.
8. Place the filled cannelloni tubes on top of the cream mixture in the baking dish.
9. Grate the soft cream cheese and evenly sprinkle it over the filled cannelloni tubes.
10. Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (356 degrees Fahrenheit).
11. Carefully pour the remaining cream mixture over the cannelloni, ensuring each tube is generously covered.
12. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 15 to 20 minutes.
13. Check for doneness by ensuring the cheese is melted and golden brown, with the sauce bubbling around the edges.
14. Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the cannelloni rest for a few minutes to set.
15. For added aroma, garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves before serving.
16. Cut and serve portions directly from the baking dish to plates.
17. Pair with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal experience.
18. Tip: Keep a close eye on the oven to prevent the cheese from burning.
19. For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of cheeses such as mozzarella and parmesan in addition to the cream cheese.
20. Enjoy your homemade cannelloni with a glass of red wine for a truly indulgent experience.

Tips

• **Substitute**: If you can't find wild boar, any game meat or beef mince will work wonderfully.
• **Technique**: Use a piping bag for filling cannelloni to keep things neat.
• **Herbs**: Add more herbs like oregano or thyme for additional flavors.

Nutrition

Calories: 450 per serving, Protein: 28g, Fat: 18g, Carbs: 40g

Variations

• **Vegetarian**: Swap the game meat for a mushroom and spinach mix for a vegetarian option.
• **Low-Carb**: Use zucchini strips instead of pasta for a lower carb version.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a **crisp green salad** for a refreshing contrast.
• Serve alongside **garlic bread** to soak up the delightful sauce.

Best Places

• La Taverna Gourmet - Known for its exquisite Italian dishes. Location: Via della Scala, 8, 50123 Florence, Italy.
• Les Amis - Offers a fine European dining experience. Location: Shaw Centre, 1 Scotts Road, Singapore.
• Pizzeria Mozza - Famous for artisanal pizzas and pasta. Location: 6602 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, USA.
• Trattoria Da Enzo - A cozy spot for traditional Italian fare. Location: Via dei Vascellari, 29, 00153 Rome, Italy.
• Osteria Francescana - A celebrated spot for Italian culinary artistry. Location: Via Stella, 22, 41121 Modena, Italy.
• L’Arpège - Known for creative European cuisine. Location: 84 Rue de Varenne, 75007 Paris, France.
• Da Vittorio - Offers a taste of luxury in Italian dining. Location: Via Cantalupa, 17, 24060 Brusaporto BG, Italy.
• Noma - Renowned for its innovative approach to Nordic cuisine. Location: Refshalevej 96, 1432 Copenhagen, Denmark.
• El Celler de Can Roca - Celebrated for its creative Spanish dishes. Location: Can Sunyer 48, 17007 Girona, Spain.
• The Ledbury - Offers an exceptional dining experience. Location: 127 Ledbury Rd, Notting Hill, London, UK.