Name: Italian Woodcock Cacciatore
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American Wild Game
Ingredients: 4 whole woodcock, sectioned; 1/4 cup olive oil; 1 large onion, sliced; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 8 oz mushrooms, sliced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/2 cup white wine; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

1Setup & Prepare

Cultural Context

This adaptation of the classic Italian hunter's stew demonstrates how traditional European recipes can be elevated through the use of superior American game birds. Cacciatore, literally meaning "hunter's style," originated as a rustic dish for using whatever game was available, but when prepared with woodcock, it becomes something truly extraordinary that honors both Italian tradition and American hunting heritage.

3Cooking Instructions

Woodcock Preparation: Season woodcock pieces with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in large, heavy skillet over medium-high heat.
Browning: Brown woodcock pieces on all sides, about 6 minutes total. Remove and set aside - they'll finish cooking in the sauce.
Vegetable Base: In same oil, sauté onion and bell pepper until softened, about 6 minutes. Add mushrooms and cook until golden, about 5 minutes more.
Aromatics: Add garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
Deglazing: Add white wine, scraping up browned bits from bottom of pan. Cook until wine reduces by half.
Sauce Building: Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine.
Braising: Return woodcock to pan, nestling pieces into sauce. Cover and simmer 25-30 minutes until tender and cooked through.
Final Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasonings. The sauce should be rich and well-balanced.
Service: Serve over polenta or pasta, garnished with fresh basil leaves.

4Chef's Notes & Pairings

Chef's Notes

Don't overcook the initial browning - the meat finishes in the sauce
The long simmer develops complex flavors while tenderizing the meat
Traditional accompaniments include polenta or fresh pasta

Wine Pairing

A medium-bodied Chianti or Sangiovese provides the perfect acidity to complement the tomato-based sauce while matching the rich woodcock.

Nutrition Facts

Per serving: 385 calories, 28g protein, 22g fat, 18g carbohydrates. Rustic Italian comfort with premium game bird.

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