Delicious Slow Cooker Rabbit Stew Recipe

If you're looking for a comforting and hearty dish that warms the soul, look no further than Rabbit Stew. This traditional dish, often enjoyed in rural communities, showcases the tender meat of rabbit slow-cooked with an array of vegetables and aromatic herbs. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and satisfying meal that's perfect for chilly evenings. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this Slow Cooker Rabbit Stew recipe will have you savoring every bite!

Ingredients

• 1 whole rabbit, cut into pieces (about 3-4 lbs or 1.4-1.8 kg)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 medium carrots, sliced
• 3 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 cup (240 ml) chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup (240 ml) dry white wine (optional)
• 2 teaspoons dried thyme (10 g)
• 2 teaspoons dried rosemary (10 g)
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Begin by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the rabbit pieces and brown them on all sides. This step adds depth of flavor to your stew.
2. Once browned, transfer the rabbit pieces to your slow cooker.
3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes, and then add to the slow cooker.
4. Next, add the sliced carrots and diced potatoes to the slow cooker, layering them over the rabbit and onions.
5. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and white wine (if using) over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
6. Sprinkle the dried thyme, dried rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper evenly over the top.
7. Cover the slow cooker and set it to low. Cook for 6-8 hours, or until the rabbit is tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.
8. Once cooked, remove the bay leaf and taste for seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.
9. Serve the stew hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken instead of rabbit?

Yes! If rabbit is hard to find, you can substitute it with chicken thighs or drumsticks, which will also give you tender meat when slow-cooked.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Allow the stew to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

3. What can I serve with rabbit stew?

This hearty stew pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes. A light salad or steamed green vegetables can also make a great side dish.

4. Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like peas, green beans, or bell peppers to the stew. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as some vegetables may require less time to cook.

5. Is this stew gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth and wine. Always check labels to ensure there are no hidden gluten ingredients if you're sensitive to gluten.