Fricassee of Marsh Hens or Rails

An ever-popular dish, serve fricassee over rice, noodles, buttered toast, or biscuits. Rails are marsh hens and vice versa.

  • Place birds in a stainless steel bowl and cover with water. Add 2 tablespoons salt and ¼ cup Citrus Rub. Marinate overnight in the refrigerator.

  • Pour liquid and birds into a pot and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until tender and meat pulls off the bone, about 30 minutes. Let cool.

  • Pull meat off the bones and chop the breast meat. Set aside.

  • Melt butter in a large skillet. Sauté onion and mushrooms for about 5 minutes. Sprinkle in flour and stir to combine. Add chicken broth, heavy cream, salt, pepper, and meat. Heat until bubbly and serve.

Serves 4 to 6

8 marsh hens

2 tablespoons salt

¼ cup Citrus Rub (page 23)

2–3 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 onion, finely chopped

8 ounces porcini mushrooms, sliced (or baby bellas)

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

⅔ cup chicken broth

⅔ cup heavy cream ½ teaspoon kosher salt ½ teaspoon lemon pepper

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