Rustic Pheasant Pot Pie

Pheasant hunting is an adventure like no other. From the crisp morning air to the sound of your faithful hunting dog in pursuit, it's an experience that connects you to the wild and to the time-honored traditions of the outdoors. But the real magic happens when you bring your pheasant harvest to the kitchen and transform it into a mouthwatering meal.

Pheasant, with its delicate flavor and tender meat, is a true game bird delicacy. Transform this wild game into a delectable Pheasant Pot Pie cooked in a rustic cast iron pan, and you'll have a comforting, hearty meal that's perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

• 2 pheasants, dressed and cut into serving pieces
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped

For the Pie Crust:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold butter, cut into small cubes
• 4-5 tablespoons ice-cold water

Preparing the Pheasant:

1. Season the pheasant pieces with salt and pepper.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in the cast iron pan over medium-high heat.
3. Brown the pheasant pieces on all sides, working in batches if necessary. This should take about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove the browned pheasant from the pan and set it aside.

Making the Filling:

1. In the same cast iron pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
4. Stir in the mushrooms, frozen peas, and frozen corn.
5. In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour to create a roux, cooking for about 2 minutes until it turns a light golden color.
6. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth and heavy cream until the mixture thickens.
7. Return the browned pheasant to the cast iron pan and pour the creamy sauce over the ingredients.
8. Add the fresh thyme leaves and parsley, stirring to combine.
9. Let the filling simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the pheasant is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.

Preparing the Pie Crust:

1. While the filling is simmering, prepare the pie crust. In a food processor, combine the flour and salt.
2. Add the cold butter cubes and pulse until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice-cold water, one tablespoon at a time, until the dough starts to come together.
4. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and form it into a ball. Flatten it into a disk and wrap it in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.

Assembling and Baking:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the chilled pie crust on a floured surface to fit the size of your cast iron pan.
3. Carefully place the pie crust over the filling in the cast iron pan, tucking in the edges.
4. Cut a few slits in the crust to allow steam to escape.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
6. Allow the Pheasant Pot Pie to cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy this comforting, rustic dish straight from the cast iron pan.

This Pheasant Pot Pie combines the earthy flavors of pheasant with the comforting warmth of a flaky pie crust, making it an impressive dish for any occasion. Serve it with a side of greens or a fresh salad for a complete meal that's sure to please.

Pheasant hunting is more than a pastime; it's an adventure that bridges the gap between the wild and the culinary arts. It's a journey that challenges your skills, reconnects you with nature, and ultimately rewards you with a delectable feast. So, the next time you embark on a pheasant hunting expedition, remember that the adventure doesn't end in the field—it continues in the kitchen, where you'll create memories and flavors that will last a lifetime.

 https://www.dinewild.com/recipes/2001/