Wild Game Recipes: Herb- and Beer-Braised Rabbit

Hunting rabbits could be how you were first introduced to hunting. From there, you might have graduated to larger game, like deer or elk. 

Now, maybe you still hunt rabbits with your kids, passing on the tradition of hunting to the next generation in your family. 

So, what do you do with rabbit meat as it starts to fill your freezer? Try out this recipe we found from Allrecipes for herb and beer-braised rabbit!  

Why Hunt Rabbit?

Why would you hunt cute little bunny rabbits? One of the most important reasons for hunting them is to control the population. 

The rabbit population in any given area can grow exponentially in a very short amount of time. While they are cute as pets, if you keep them caged or indoors, wild rabbits have many nuisance habits, including destroying property and crops. 

Rabbits can cause extensive damage to structures, requiring costly repairs to overcome dangerous situations. These animals also damage trees by eating the bark. 

However, other than population control, hunting rabbits is fun, and the meat is delicious. It's an excellent way to introduce new hunters to hunting – and the reward is a delicious meal!

Wild Game Recipes: Herb and Beer Braised Rabbit 

After a day of hunting rabbits (or "wabbits" if you're Elmer Fudd), try this recipe for a tasty dinner. 

Prep time: 40 minutes
Cook time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6 at 528 calories per serving

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs of rabbit meat (clean and cut into pieces)
• 1/2 cup plus 3 Tbsp. all-purpose flour (divide 1/2 tsp. of salt)
• 1/4 tsp. of pepper
• 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil (divided)
• 1-1/2 lbs. of mushrooms (slice thinly)
• 2 cup of onions (slice thinly)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 Tbsp. fresh thyme (chopped)
• 2 Tbsp. garlic (chopped)
• 1 Tbsp. fresh basil (chopped)
• 1 Tbsp. fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 Tbsp. butter (softened)
• 1 Tbsp. fresh parsley (minced)
• 1-quart chicken stock
• 2 cups amber beer

Place 1/2 cup flour, salt, and pepper into a plastic bag, then toss to mix. Add rabbit meat. Toss the bag to coat the meat. Then, shake off excess breading and lay meat to one side. 

In a Dutch oven, heat two tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until it's lightly smoking. Sear the breaded rabbit on each side until it's golden brown. Set it aside. 

Pour in the remaining oil and stir in the sliced onions. Cook until the onions have softened – about two minutes – then stir in the mushrooms and garlic. Cook for an additional two minutes. 

Add thyme, basil, rosemary, and bay leaves, then add salt and pepper to taste.

Place browned rabbit pieces into the Dutch oven and pour in the beer and chicken stock. Bring the mix to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and simmer until the rabbit is tender (about 25 -30 minutes).

Meanwhile, stir three tablespoons of flour into the softened butter until it's smooth. Remove the rabbit meat from the broth and set it aside. Skim any visible fat off the liquid, then whisk in the butter paste. 

Simmer for 3 to 4 minutes until thickened, then remove the bay leaves. Season the sauce again with salt and pepper as needed. Stir in the parsley.

Serve the thickened sauce with the rabbit, and enjoy!

Stay Safe When Hunting Rabbits for Your Wild Game Recipe

Before you can enjoy this tasty meal (or your favorite way to prepare rabbit), you have to return from a safe and successful hunt! 

The best way to do that is to be prepared with essential hunting safety knowledge. Hunter-Ed offers online, state-approved courses to help hunters learn about firearm safety, blaze orange regulations, getting a hunting license, and avoiding target fixation. 

Keep yourself, your family, and others in the field safe this season! Find the course for your state and start learning. Encourage your hunting partners to get certified, too! 

Originally published December 8, 2015. Content updated May 18, 2023. 
Photo courtesy of Texas Parks & Wildlife.