Name: Wine-Braised Partridge with Crispy Pancetta
Prep time: 45 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 45 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: US
Ingredients: 3 skinned partridges, breast meat filleted from the bone; 8 thin slices pancetta; 1 tablespoon butter, or as needed; 1 (8 ounce) package sliced fresh mushrooms; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bunch fresh spinach; 1 cup cold water; 1 (.75 ounce) packet dry mushroom gravy mix; 0.5 cup dry red wine; 0.5 cup 35% cream; 1 pinch chopped fresh thyme; toothpicks

Elevate your game with this exquisite Pancetta Partridge in Wine Sauce, a symphony of flavors where tender partridge fillets meet the savory richness of pancetta, all bathed in a luscious wine gravy. A culinary tribute to the hunt, perfect for a memorable meal served over rice or creamy mashed potatoes.

Follow The Directions

01

Step

Prepare the Partridge: Place partridge fillets between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently tenderize with a rolling pin. Set aside.

02

Step

Sauté Aromatics: In a saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Sauté mushrooms, onion, and garlic until softened (5-7 minutes). Set aside.

03

Step

Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

04

Step

Blanch Spinach: Fill a large bowl with ice water. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil. Add spinach and cook until bright green (about 30 seconds). Drain and immediately immerse in ice water for several minutes. Drain and dice.

05

Step

Prepare Wine Gravy: In a small saucepan, whisk cold water gradually into the dry mushroom gravy mix. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the gravy comes to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 minute. Remove from heat and stir in red wine, cream, and thyme. Allow the gravy to thicken.

06

Step

Assemble Partridge Rolls: Lay tenderized fillets on a cutting board. Top with a thin layer of blanched spinach, followed by a thin layer of sautéed mushrooms, and a piece of pancetta. Roll and fold the fillets, securing with toothpicks. Place into a small roasting pan.

07

Step

Bake: Pour the prepared gravy over the meat until completely immersed. Bake in the preheated oven until the partridge is cooked through and the juices run clear (about 45 minutes).