Rabbit in Mustard Sauce Recipe

Rabbit in mustard sauce is a comforting, elegant dish that’s easier to make than you might think. This Rabbit in Mustard Sauce recipe, inspired by my family’s Sunday dinners, brings out the best in rabbit meat with a creamy, tangy mustard sauce. Whether it’s your first time cooking rabbit or you’re a seasoned pro, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive in and create a dish that’s full of flavor and tradition.

What is Rabbit in Mustard Sauce?

Rabbit in mustard sauce is a traditional French dish that highlights the tender, mild flavor of rabbit meat. Often prepared with the shoulders or legs, the rabbit is cooked in a rich sauce made with Dijon mustard, cream, and broth or white wine.

This simple preparation brings out the natural flavors of the meat while adding a creamy tanginess that’s hard to resist. Perfect for special occasions or a comforting family meal, it’s a great way to introduce rabbit to your dinner table.

Besoin de matériel de cuisine

• Planche à découper
• Couteau
• Pot with lid
• Tasses à mesurer
• Fouet
• Oven (optional for finishing)
• Grill (optional for browning)

Ingrédients

• 4 pieces of rabbit (shoulders or legs)
• 2 onions or shallots, finely chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced (optional)
• 400 ml (1 2/3 cups) whipping cream
• 300 ml (1 1/4 cups) chicken broth or white wine
• 3 tablespoons Dijon mustard (preferably Maille or Grey Poupon)
• Sea salt, to taste
• Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter

How to Make Rabbit in Mustard Sauce?

Étape 1 :

Rub the rabbit pieces with salt and a light coating of Dijon mustard. Let them marinate for 20 minutes to infuse the meat with flavor.

Étape 2 :

Heat olive oil or butter in a pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions or shallots and sauté until soft and translucent. If using garlic, add it in the final minute of sautéing to avoid burning.

Étape 3 :

Add the rabbit pieces to the pot, browning them on all sides. This step locks in the juices and adds a delicious caramelized flavor.

Étape 4 :

Pour in the broth or white wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze any flavorful bits. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the rabbit simmer gently for 15 minutes.

Étape 5 :

Stir in the cream and Dijon mustard, making sure the sauce is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the pot again and continue cooking for another 15 minutes until the rabbit is tender and the sauce has thickened.

Step 6 (Optional):

For a deeper flavor and a browned finish, transfer the pot to a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for the final 10 minutes of cooking. If your oven has a grill setting, use it to caramelize the top of the rabbit slightly.

Étape 7 :

Remove the rabbit from the pot and place it on a serving dish. Spoon the creamy mustard sauce over the top and serve immediately.

---

Quelques conseils !

• Use high-quality Dijon mustard to ensure a balanced tangy flavor.
• A quick marinade enhances the rabbit’s natural flavor and tenderness.
• Scrape the pot after adding liquid to incorporate all the flavorful bits.
• If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of broth or wine.
• For a gourmet touch, finish the dish in the oven to caramelize the top.

Comment conserver les restes ?

Let the rabbit cool to room temperature before transferring to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw overnight (if frozen) and warm on the stovetop over low heat.

What to Eat with Rabbit in Mustard Sauce?

I love serving this recipe with a simple and easy spinach Arugula Salad salad tossed in a zesty vinaigrette or some roasted garlic Parmesan potatoes on the side. Yum!

FAQ

Can I use other cuts of rabbit for this recipe?

Yes, you can use any part of the rabbit, but bone-in cuts like shoulders or legs are best for flavor.

What can I use instead of white wine?

Substitute with chicken broth or vegetable stock for a non-alcoholic option.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Replace cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or oat cream.

How do I prevent the sauce from curdling?

Keep the heat low when adding the cream and stir constantly to maintain a smooth consistency.

Can I prepare this Rabbit in mustard Sauce in advance?

Yes, you can make it a day ahead. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Conclusion

This rabbit in mustard sauce recipe is a timeless classic that’s simple to prepare yet full of rich, comforting flavors. Whether you’re recreating childhood memories or trying something new, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try and let me know how it turned out—family traditions start here!