Go Back

Pan-Roasted Quail

Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time1 hour
Total Time1 hour 5 minutes
Course: Main Course
Servings: 5 servings

Ingredients

  • 4 quails
  • 4 thin slices of pancetta
  • 4 fresh sage leaves
  • 1 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1 cup (60 ml) dry white wine

Instructions

  • Wash the quail thoroughly inside and out under cold running water, then set aside to drain in a colander for 20 minutes.
  • Pat the quail dry and stuff each with a slice of pancetta and a sage leaf.
  • Place the butter and oil in a heavy sauté pan and place over high heat.
  • Brown the quail on all sides, then sprinkle with salt and pepper and add the wine. Turning the birds in it once.
  • Cook for about 1 minute, then lower the heat to medium and cover the pan, leaving the lid slightly askew. Cook for 45 minutes to 1 hour, until the quail feel tender when probed with a fork and the meat comes away easily from the bone.
  • Check to see if there is sufficient liquid in the pan to keep the quail from sticking.
  • Add a little water if there is not. Remove the quail from the pan and place on a serving dish.
  • Add 3 tablespoons (45 ml) of water to the pan, increase the heat to high, and cook, loosening the particles clinging to the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon.
  • If necessary, season the pan juices with salt and pepper, then pour over the quail and serve.