If you're a fan of game meat, then you're in for a treat with smoked dove. These small game birds offer a unique and flavorful taste that can be enjoyed in various cooking methods. In this article, we'll explore the different ways to prepare and cook smoked dove, as well as answer some common questions about this delicious meat.
Can You Eat Dove Rare?
Many people prefer to marinate doves for several hours and wrap them with bacon, jalapeno pepper, and cheese or cream cheese before cooking. This method is popular because it adds extra flavors and helps to keep the meat moist. However, if you prefer to enjoy the natural taste of dove, you can cook it until it is medium-rare.
Cooking dove breast to a temperature of no more than 130 to 135 degrees Fahrenheit ensures that it remains tender and mild in flavor. At this level of doneness, the meat is similar to other dark-fleshed game meats that are cooked to a lesser degree. If you cook dove past medium-rare, it can develop an agamey taste. For those who don't enjoy rare or medium-rare meat, marinating the dove and wrapping it in bacon can help enhance the flavors.
Alternatively, you can also brown and simmer the dove in a red sauce for several hours until the meat becomes as tender as pot roast. Served over pasta, the slow-cooked dove meat becomes indistinguishable from other meats that have been prepared in a similar way.
Preparing Smoked Dove
When it comes to preparing dove for smoking, you can follow a similar approach as you would with waterfowl. Brining the birds in a mild saltwater brine for a couple of hours helps to enhance the flavors. To make the brine, mix 1 quart of water with 1/4 cup of kosher or any coarse salt and brown sugar.
It's important to keep a cooler handy in the field to quickly cool the freshly-killed birds, especially on hot days. Opening the cavities, removing the innards, and placing the birds in a cooler helps to cool them down faster. After brining, pat the doves dry, season them, and then grill, pan-sear, or sauté them for about 1 minute per side. If desired, you can also marinate them in your favorite marinade, but be careful not to overdo it, as you still want to taste the natural flavors of the meat.
If you have the opportunity to hunt Eurasian Collared-Doves, which are legal to shoot in some areas, they taste just as good as mourning doves. Due to their larger size, marinating them for an hour or two longer is recommended.
Smoking Dove for Delicious Results
Smoking dove is another excellent way to enjoy this game meat. When smoking whole birds, it's important to monitor the temperature at the center of the breast. Once it reaches 130 to 135 degrees Fahrenheit, remove the birds from the smoker, lightly tent them with foil, and let them rest for a few minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute within the meat, resulting in a moist and flavorful final product.
It's worth noting that the red juices present in cooked meat are not blood but mostly water and myoglobin (protein). So, don't be alarmed if the meat isn't completely devoid of moisture.
Herb Marinade Recipe
For those who enjoy adding extra flavors to their smoked dove, here's a mild herb marinade recipe that works well with any upland game, including doves:
Ingredients:
- 1/3 cup dry white wine
- 3 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 green onions, minced
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup mixed fresh herbs, chopped
To prepare the marinade, combine all the ingredients in a jar with a tight-fitting lid. Shake vigorously to blend the flavors. Marinate dove breasts for 2 to 3 hours, and if cooking whole doves, extend the marinating time by a couple of hours.
Whether you choose to smoke, grill, or marinate your dove, these birds offer a delicious and unique taste that is sure to impress. Experiment with different cooking methods and flavors to find your favorite way to enjoy smoked dove. Happy cooking!
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What Type of Meat is Dove?
Dove is a type of game meat that is known for its small size and rich flavor. It is often compared to other dark-fleshed game meats like duck or venison. The taste of dove can vary depending on how it is cooked and seasoned.
Is Dove a Good Meat?
Yes, dove is considered a good meat option for those who enjoy game meats. It is lean, flavorful, and versatile in terms of cooking methods. Many people enjoy the taste of dove, especially when it is prepared properly.
What Temperature Should Dove be Cooked to?
Dove should be cooked to a temperature of no more than 130 to 135 degrees Fahrenheit for medium-rare doneness. Cooking the meat past medium-rare can result in a stronger, gamey flavor. It's important to monitor the internal temperature of the meat to ensure it reaches the desired level of doneness.
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