Fire up the grill and get ready to impress your guests with a delightful dish that is sure to elevate your backyard cooking game. Barbecued doves are a delectable treat that combine the rich flavor of game meat with the smoky goodness of barbecuing. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the process of preparing and cooking these mouthwatering barbecued doves for a memorable outdoor dining experience.
**Barbecued Doves**
**Ingredients:**
– 6 whole doves, dressed and cleaned
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Marinate the Doves:**
– In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
– Place the doves in a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the dish with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
2. **Prepare the Grill:**
– Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F (190-200°C). If using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are ashed over and spread out evenly.
3. **Grill the Doves:**
– Remove the marinated doves from the refrigerator and let them come to room temperature while the grill is heating up.
– Place the doves on the preheated grill, breast side down. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
– Baste the doves with any remaining marinade while grilling to keep them moist and flavorful.
4. **Serve and Garnish:**
– Once the doves are cooked through, remove them from the grill and transfer to a serving platter.
– Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
– Serve the barbecued doves hot, alongside your favorite sides like grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a fresh garden salad.
5. **Enjoy Your Outdoor Feast:**
– Gather your friends and family around the table to enjoy these succulent barbecued doves together. The tender meat with a hint of smokiness from the grill will surely be a hit at your next backyard gathering.
– Feel free to customize the marinade with your favorite herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences. This recipe is versatile and can be adapted to your liking.
Grilling doves may seem like a culinary adventure, but with this easy-to-follow recipe, you’ll be a pro in no time. Embrace the flavors of the outdoors and savor the delicious results of your efforts. Happy grilling!
