Lapin aux Pruneaux et Bière Brune
Rabbit with Prunes and Dark Beer
A rich and flavorful Belgian rabbit stew, slow-cooked with prunes and dark beer, offering a perfect balance of sweet and savory notes. This dish is a comforting classic, often found in traditional Belgian households.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 whole Rabbit(cut into 8 pieces)
- 150 g Bacon(diced)
- 2 large Onions(sliced)
- 2 medium Carrots(peeled and sliced)
- 2 Celery stalks(sliced)
- 3 Garlic cloves(minced)
- 2 tbsp All-purpose flour
- 750 ml Dark Belgian beer(such as a Dubbel or Quadrupel)
- 500 ml Beef or rabbit broth
- 200 g Prunes(pitted)
- 2 Thyme sprigs
- 1 Bay leaf
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- Salt(to taste)
- Black pepper(freshly ground, to taste)
- 2 tbsp Butter or oil(for searing)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Pat the rabbit pieces dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
💡 Tip: Drying the rabbit ensures a better sear. - 2
In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
- 3
Sear the rabbit pieces in batches in the bacon fat (adding butter or oil if needed) until browned on all sides. Remove the rabbit and set aside with the bacon.
- 4
Add the sliced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened, about 8-10 minutes.
- 5
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- 6
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste.
- 7
Gradually pour in the dark Belgian beer, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits. Bring to a simmer.
💡 Tip: Using a good quality dark beer is key to the flavor. - 8
Return the rabbit pieces and cooked bacon to the pot. Add the beef or rabbit broth, prunes, thyme sprigs, bay leaf, and Dijon mustard. Stir to combine.
- 9
Bring the stew to a gentle simmer, then cover the pot and transfer it to a preheated oven at 160°C (325°F).
💡 Tip: Low and slow cooking is essential for tender rabbit. - 10
After 2 hours, check the rabbit for tenderness. If it's falling off the bone, it's ready. If not, continue cooking for another 30 minutes.
- 11
Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
💡 Tip: Let the stew rest for a few minutes before serving. - 12
Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. Traditionally served with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or frites.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓Ensure the rabbit is well-browned for maximum flavor.
- ✓Don't rush the simmering process; slow cooking is key.
- ✓Adjust the amount of prunes to your preference for sweetness.
✨ Twist Ideas
Inspiration for your own version of this recipe
- Add a tablespoon of dark chocolate to the stew for added depth of flavor.
- Include a splash of red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar for a touch of acidity.
- Serve with a dollop of crème fraîche or sour cream.