As the seasons change, many of us find ourselves craving heartier, more comforting meals to warm our bellies and souls. And what better way to do so than with a culinary staple that’s often overlooked but always impressive: dove. With its tender meat and rich flavor profile, dove is the perfect ingredient for gourmet dinners that are sure to impress. Whether you’re looking for a classic dish or something more adventurous, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 savory dove recipes.
From pan-seared breast with a bold red wine reduction to slow-cooked stews and hearty risottos, these mouthwatering dishes will take your culinary skills to new heights. And don’t worry if you’re feeling adventurous – we’ve also included some more exotic options like bacon-wrapped dove with bourbon glaze and dove tacos with avocado lime crema.
In this article, we’ll delve into the world of dove cooking and explore the many ways you can incorporate this versatile ingredient into your repertoire. So whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting out in the kitchen, keep reading to discover the perfect recipe for your next gourmet dinner.
Pan-Seared Dove Breast with Red Wine Reduction
This elegant dish showcases the tender and flavorful dove breast, paired with a rich red wine reduction that adds depth and complexity to the dish. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can impress your guests with this unique and delicious recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4 dove breasts
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season dove breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Heat olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear dove breasts for 2-3 minutes per side, or until browned.
4. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the dove is cooked through.
5. While the dove cooks, reduce the red wine in a saucepan over medium heat until almost syrupy.
6. Stir in butter until melted. Serve the pan-seared dove breasts with the red wine reduction spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Grilled Dove Skewers with Garlic and Rosemary
Elevate your outdoor cooking experience with these savory dove skewers infused with the flavors of garlic and rosemary. Perfect for a rustic dinner party or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb dove breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread dove pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, mix together minced garlic and olive oil.
4. Brush the garlic-olive oil mixture evenly over the dove pieces on the skewers.
5. Sprinkle chopped rosemary over the dove pieces.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Slow-Cooked Dove Stew with Root Vegetables
This slow-cooked stew is a perfect blend of tender dove meat and root vegetables, simmered to perfection in a rich broth. A comforting and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Dove and Wild Mushroom Risotto
This rich and creamy risotto combines the tender texture of dove breast with the earthy flavors of wild mushrooms, perfect for a special occasion or cozy dinner. With its subtle sweetness and savory notes, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb dove breast, cut into small pieces
– 2 cups mixed wild mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), cleaned and sliced
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add dove and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add wine (if using) and cook until absorbed, stirring frequently.
5. Gradually add broth, stirring and cooking until absorbed before adding more.
6. Stir in butter, cooked dove, and mushrooms; season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Dove with Bourbon Glaze
A unique and savory twist on traditional poultry dishes, this recipe combines the rich flavors of bacon and bourbon with the tender meat of dove.
Ingredients:
– 4 dove breasts
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wrap each dove breast with 1-2 slices of bacon, securing with toothpicks if needed.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together bourbon, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Place the bacon-wrapped doves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and brush with the bourbon glaze.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the dove is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Dove Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting pot pie filled with tender dove meat and topped with a flaky, buttery crust. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dove breast or thighs, cut into small pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook dove meat and onion in olive oil until browned.
3. Add garlic, mixed vegetables, chicken broth, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Roll out puff pastry or make homemade crust using flour and butter. Place on top of filling.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Smoked Dove with Applewood and Honey Glaze
Smoked Dove with Applewood and Honey Glaze: Elevate your game with this sweet and savory recipe that pairs perfectly smoked dove with a rich honey glaze, infused with the subtle flavors of applewood.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 dove breasts
– 1 cup applewood chips
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. Season dove breasts with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.
3. Place dove breasts in the smoker, close the lid, and smoke for 4-5 hours or until tender.
4. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar and honey.
5. During the last 30 minutes of smoking, brush the dove breasts with the honey glaze every 10 minutes.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (smoking) + 15 minutes (resting)
Dove Tacos with Avocado Lime Crema
Experience the harmony of tender doves (also known as dove breast or chicken) wrapped in a crispy taco shell, paired with a tangy and creamy avocado lime crema. This recipe is perfect for a light and flavorful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dove breast or chicken, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup lime juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Lime Crema (see below)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Add dove breast pieces to the marinade and let sit for at least 30 minutes.
4. Grill doves for 5-7 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by slicing grilled doves and serving with Avocado Lime Crema, desired toppings, and a squeeze of lime juice.
Avocado Lime Crema:
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Dove and Sausage Gumbo
This hearty gumbo combines tender dove breast with spicy sausage, vegetables, and a rich roux-based broth for a truly satisfying meal. Serve over rice for a comforting Louisiana-inspired dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb dove breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add sausage; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove sausage; set aside. Add dove breast; cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Sprinkle paprika and cayenne pepper; stir to combine.
5. Gradually add flour, whisking constantly; cook for 1 minute.
6. Add chicken broth; bring to a simmer. Return sausage and dove breast to pot; season with salt and pepper.
7. Simmer gumbo for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together. Serve hot over rice.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Herb-Roasted Dove with Lemon Butter Sauce
Elevate your game with this elegant dish that showcases the tender flavors of dove paired with a bright and citrusy lemon butter sauce. This recipe is perfect for special occasions or intimate gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 4 dove breasts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced (about 2 tbsp)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Place dove breasts in a shallow dish and brush the herb mixture evenly over both sides of the dove.
4. Roast dove in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the dove is roasting, melt butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add lemon juice, garlic, and salt. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
6. Serve roasted dove with warm lemon butter sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dove Stir-Fry with Ginger and Soy
This aromatic stir-fry combines tender Dove breast, crisp vegetables, and savory soy sauce, all infused with the warmth of ginger. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Dove breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add Dove breast and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add ginger, garlic, and mixed vegetables to the pan. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Return Dove breast to the pan and stir in soy sauce. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Dove Confit with Thyme and Garlic
Elevate your cooking game with this simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. The combination of tender dove meat, aromatic thyme, and pungent garlic will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb dove breast or thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs of fresh thyme
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the dove meat in a shallow baking dish or ceramic container. Sprinkle the garlic-thyme mixture evenly over the top of the dove.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the dove, making sure it’s well-coated.
5. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 2 hours.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until the dove is tender and falls apart easily.
Cooking Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Dove and Fig Crostini
Elevate your snack game with this unique combination of creamy dove cheese, sweet caramelized figs, and crispy baguette slices. Perfect for a quick appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 (8 oz) wheel of dove cheese, softened
– 4-6 ripe figs, chopped
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Spread dove cheese on each baguette slice.
3. In a small saucepan, combine chopped figs, honey, and balsamic vinegar. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until figs are caramelized and syrupy.
4. Top each cheese-topped baguette slice with a spoonful of the fig mixture.
5. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Dove Meatballs in Marinara Sauce
This classic recipe combines tender meatballs with a rich and tangy marinara sauce, perfect for serving with pasta, rice, or as an appetizer. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you’ll be enjoying this delicious dish in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, olive oil, onion, and garlic. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape mixture into small meatballs (about 20-25). Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. While the meatballs are cooking, heat marinara sauce in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
6. Remove meatballs from oven and add to the marinara sauce. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes to combine flavors.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Dove and Blackberry Salad with Goat Cheese
A sweet and tangy combination of textures and flavors, this salad is perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a delightful side dish. The tender dove, paired with the sweetness of blackberries and the creaminess of goat cheese, creates a truly unique and delicious experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb dove breast, cooked and diced
– 1 cup fresh blackberries
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the diced dove breast, blackberries, and goat cheese.
2. Drizzle the olive oil over the mixture and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Top with chopped nuts and drizzle with balsamic vinegar.
4. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Dove Stuffed with Wild Rice and Cranberries
A twist on the classic roasted dove recipe, this dish combines the savory flavor of wild rice with the sweet and tangy taste of cranberries. Perfect for a special occasion or holiday meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole dove (about 2 lbs), cleaned and patted dry
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1/2 cup fresh or frozen cranberries, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together cooked wild rice and chopped cranberries.
3. Stuff the dove’s cavity with the wild rice-cranberry mixture, dividing it evenly between the two sides of the breastbone.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the dove, then sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and chicken broth.
5. Roast the dove in the preheated oven for about 45-50 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Let the dove rest for 10 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: approximately 45-50 minutes
Dove and Chestnut Soup
Warm up with this comforting soup that combines the rich flavors of doves and chestnuts. Perfect for a cozy evening or as a starter for your holiday feast, this recipe is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups dove meat (or substitute with chicken or turkey), diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups chestnuts, peeled and sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the dove meat and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add the chestnuts, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the chestnuts are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Alternatively, transfer the soup to a blender and blend in batches, then return to the pot.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Dove Kebabs with Pomegranate Molasses
This recipe combines the flavors of tender dove kebabs with the sweet and tangy pomegranate molasses, creating a unique and delicious Middle Eastern-inspired dish.
Ingredients:
– 500g dove meat (or chicken thighs), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 100ml pomegranate molasses
– Fresh parsley or cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the dove meat pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Thread the marinated dove meat onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill the kebabs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Brush pomegranate molasses over the kebabs during the last minute of grilling.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Elevate your dining experience with these 18 savory dove recipes. From Pan-Seared Dove Breast with Red Wine Reduction to Smoked Dove with Applewood and Honey Glaze, each dish is a masterclass in culinary creativity. Other standout recipes include Grilled Dove Skewers with Garlic and Rosemary, Dove and Wild Mushroom Risotto, and Bacon-Wrapped Dove with Bourbon Glaze. Whether you’re looking for a comforting stew or a flavorful stir-fry, this collection has something for everyone. Get ready to impress your guests with these gourmet dove dishes!
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