Dove And Gravy Recipe

When it comes to comfort food with a touch of rustic charm, dove and gravy is a dish that stands out. This classic recipe has roots in traditional Southern cooking, where game birds like dove are transformed into hearty, flavorful meals. It’s a perfect way to showcase the rich, tender meat of dove while pairing it with a creamy, savory gravy that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Dove And Gravy Recipe

Creating dove and gravy at home brings the heartwarming flavors of Southern comfort straight to your table. Follow these step-by-step instructions to craft a dish that’s rustic, flavorful, and perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in.

Ingredients

For the Dove:

• 6 doves, cleaned and rinsed thoroughly
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour (for dredging)
• 4 tablespoons butter (unsalted)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Gravy:

• 4 tablespoons dove drippings (from cooked doves)
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups chicken stock (or broth)
• 1/2 cup whole milk (optional for creamy gravy)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Cooking Tools

• Heavy skillet or cast-iron pan
• Whisk
• Large bowl for dredging

Instructions

Preparing and Cooking the Dove:

1. Season the dove: Pat the dove dry with paper towels. In a small bowl, combine salt, black pepper, paprika, and garlic powder, and season the dove evenly.
2. Dredge the dove: Place the flour in a large bowl. Lightly coat each dove in the flour, shaking off any excess.
3. Sear the dove: Heat a skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add a mix of butter and olive oil. Once the mixture begins to sizzle, carefully place the dredged doves into the pan.
4. Brown the dove evenly: Sear 3–4 minutes per side until the dove turns golden brown. Remove the birds from the skillet and set them aside on a plate.

Making the Gravy:

1. Prepare the skillet drippings: Reduce the heat to medium. Remove excess drippings from the pan, leaving about 4 tablespoons in the skillet.
2. Create the roux: Add all-purpose flour to the drippings. Whisk continuously for 1–2 minutes until the mixture turns golden brown and smells nutty.
3. Incorporate the liquid: Slowly pour in chicken stock while whisking. Add milk for a creamy texture, if desired.
4. Cook and season: Simmer the gravy for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve:

1. Return the dove to the pan: Nestle the seared doves into the thickened gravy, ensuring they’re coated. Cover and let them simmer on low heat for about 10–12 minutes to meld the flavors.
2. Serve immediately: Plate the dove with gravy alongside mashed potatoes, rice, or warm biscuits. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley if desired.

Cooking Tips

• Tenderizing the dove: Dove meat can be lean. If tenderizing is needed, marinate the birds in buttermilk for a few hours before cooking.
• Adjust gravy consistency: Add extra chicken stock for a thinner gravy or simmer longer for a thicker consistency.
• Layer of flavor: Add a splash of white wine or Worcestershire sauce to the gravy for additional depth.

Quick Reference Table for Key Steps

Step	Action	Time Allotted
Seasoning and dredging dove	Spices & flour prep	5 minutes
Searing dove	Golden brown crust	6–8 minutes
Making gravy	Roux + thickening	10 minutes
Simmering dove in gravy	Combining flavors	10–12 minutes

With these steps, we can enjoy a delectable and hearty Dove And Gravy Recipe that delivers unbeatable Southern charm.

Ingredients

To make dove and gravy, we’ll need a list of simple yet flavorful ingredients. Each component plays a vital role in creating this comforting Southern dish. Below are the essential ingredients divided into two parts for the dove and the gravy.

For The Dove

• 8 doves, cleaned (remove feathers and innards, rinse thoroughly)
• 1 cup all-purpose flour for dredging
• 2 teaspoons salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• 1 teaspoon paprika (optional, for added flavor)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil

For The Gravy

• 1/4 cup pan drippings (from cooking the dove)
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups whole milk (can substitute with half-and-half for richer gravy)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, freshly ground
• Optional: 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder or onion powder for a savory twist

Use these thoughtfully chosen ingredients to build layers of flavors that make our dove and gravy tender, rich, and soul-satisfying.

Tools And Equipment

Crafting the perfect dove and gravy requires the right set of tools and equipment to ensure efficiency and exceptional results. Below is a breakdown of the essential items we’ll need, each serving a crucial role in the preparation process.

Essential Tools & Their Purpose

Tool/Equipment	Purpose
Cast-iron skillet	Ideal for searing the dove to achieve a golden-brown crust and making the gravy from pan drippings.
Tongs	Helps grip and turn the doves safely during the searing process without piercing the meat.
Shallow bowl	Perfect for dredging the dove in seasoned flour for an even coating.
Whisk	Ensures the gravy is smooth and lump-free by thoroughly blending the flour and milk.
Cutting board	Provides a stable surface for preparing the doves before cooking.
Knife	Necessary for trimming any excess fat or preparing optional aromatics like garlic or onions.
Measuring cups/spoons	Ensures precise measurement of ingredients like flour, milk, salt, and seasoning.
Mixing bowl	Used for mixing or seasoning the flour prior to dredging the doves.

Why These Tools Matter

Using the right equipment not only simplifies the cooking process but also ensures the quality of the finished dish. For instance, a cast-iron skillet is crucial as it retains and distributes heat evenly, which is essential for both browning the dove and preparing the creamy gravy. On the other hand, a whisk is necessary to prevent clumpy gravy, turning simple ingredients into a velvety sauce bursting with flavor.

Optional Equipment

While the above tools make up our essentials, a few optional items can elevate our cooking experience:

• Meat thermometer: Helps monitor the internal temperature of the dove, ensuring it remains tender and juicy without overcooking.
• Splatter guard: Reduces mess when searing the doves in hot oil in the skillet.
• Small saucepan: Useful for pre-warming the milk before adding it to the gravy, which speeds up thickening.

Arming ourselves with the correct tools and ensuring everything is within reach before starting to cook makes the process seamless, letting us focus on capturing the essence of this delicious Southern-style dove and gravy recipe.

Directions

To prepare a luxurious dove and gravy dish that oozes Southern comfort, follow these step-by-step instructions. Each stage is crafted to ensure a balance of flavors and textures for an unforgettable meal.

Prep The Dove

1. Carefully clean and pat dry the doves using paper towels. Ensure there’s no excess moisture for effective seasoning and dredging.
2. In a shallow bowl, combine the following for dredging:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika

1. Gently coat each dove in the flour mixture, shaking off the excess. Make sure every surface is evenly covered. This step ensures a golden crust when seared.
2. Prepare your cooking area by heating 2 tablespoons of oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat. The combination of oil and butter provides both flavor and prevents burning.

Cook The Dove

1. Once the skillet is heated and the butter is melted, carefully place the dredged doves in the skillet. Use tongs to avoid burns.
2. Sear the doves for 3-4 minutes per side or until each side achieves a golden brown crust. Reduce the heat to medium-low if the oil starts to smoke or splatter excessively.
3. When all doves are browned and crispy, remove them from the skillet using tongs and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb excess oil.
4. For tender meat, you can cover the doves with aluminum foil while preparing the gravy to retain warmth and juices.

Prepare The Gravy

1. After removing the doves, reduce the heat to low and reserve the pan drippings in the skillet. These drippings are packed with flavor and serve as the base for your gravy.
2. Whisk in 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour directly into the skillet. Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste and to form a roux. The mixture should have a light golden color.
3. Gradually add 2 cups of whole milk while whisking constantly to ensure a smooth consistency. Continue to cook and whisk for 5-7 minutes, or until the gravy thickens to your desired texture.
4. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, tasting as you go. If you enjoy additional layers of flavor, add a pinch of garlic powder or onion powder to the gravy.
5. Once the gravy is ready, return the seared doves to the skillet, allowing them to simmer in the gravy for 5-7 minutes. This step infuses the meat with the rich, creamy sauce.

Here’s a quick summary of cook times for reference:

Step	Time
Searing the Dove	6-8 minutes total
Making the Roux	1-2 minutes
Cooking the Gravy	5-7 minutes
Simmering the Doves	5-7 minutes

Serve the dove and gravy immediately, plated over fluffy biscuits, rice, or mashed potatoes to soak up every bit of the luscious, savory gravy.

Assembling The Dish

Now that we’ve prepared the tender seared dove and the creamy, flavorful gravy, it’s time to bring it all together. Assembling the dish is the final step where all the rich flavors come alive, creating a meal that’s as comforting as it is satisfying. Follow these steps to assemble dove and gravy seamlessly:

Step 1: Preparing the Base

Choose your desired base to serve with the dove and gravy. Popular and traditional options include:

• Freshly baked biscuits: Soft and buttery, perfect for soaking up the gravy.
• Steamed white rice: Provides a neutral flavor that complements the dish’s richness.
• Creamy mashed potatoes: Adds an extra layer of indulgence to the meal.

Warm your chosen base as needed and arrange it on serving plates.

Step 2: Plating the Doves

• Using tongs, gently place the perfectly seared doves over the prepared base.
• Position one or two doves per plate, depending on portion size, ensuring they are centered for an appealing presentation.

Step 3: Pouring the Gravy

• Take the hot, flavorful gravy you prepared earlier and whisk it well to ensure a smooth consistency.
• Using a ladle, pour the gravy generously over the doves and the base. Let the creamy texture cascade over the plate for a mouthwatering visual.
• If desired, reserve a small bowl of extra gravy on the side for those who like an even richer experience.

Optional Garnishes

Adding a garnish elevates the dish visually and flavor-wise. Consider these options:

• A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for added color and freshness.
• A pinch of paprika to enhance the dish’s warm tones.
• A dash of freshly ground black pepper on top for an aromatic finish.

Step 4: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the assembled dish immediately while it’s hot. For a rustic Southern touch, serve alongside a side of collard greens, green beans, or cornbread.

Base Options	Amount Per Serving
Biscuits	1–2 pieces
White Rice	½–1 cup
Mashed Potatoes	½–¾ cup

By carefully assembling each element, we transform basic ingredients into a hearty, visually stunning plate of dove and gravy. This step ensures everything comes together harmoniously, from the rich gravy to the tender dove and its perfect pairing.

Serving Suggestions

When serving dove and gravy, we want to ensure the dish is not only satisfying but also visually appealing. The rich, creamy texture of the gravy paired with the tender, golden-brown doves creates a comforting meal that can be enjoyed with a variety of classic sides. Here are some of our favorite Serving Suggestions to elevate this dish and create a memorable dining experience:

1. Ideal Bases for Serving

Pairing the rich gravy with a hearty base ensures a fuller meal. You can serve the doves and gravy over:

• Freshly baked biscuits: The flaky, buttery texture soaks up the savory gravy perfectly. Arrange a split biscuit on a plate and top it with the doves, then drizzle generously with gravy.
• Creamy mashed potatoes: For an ultra-comforting option, spoon the doves and gravy over a smooth, buttery mound of mashed potatoes.
• Steamed white rice: The neutral yet slightly nutty flavor of rice complements the robust flavors of the dish, allowing the dove and gravy to shine.

2. Side Dish Pairings

Enhance your meal with traditional sides that complement the Southern essence of this dish. Below are a few ideas:

Side Dish	Description
Collard Greens	Slow-cooked greens with a hint of smoky bacon add a delicious contrast to the creamy gravy.
Cornbread	A slightly crumbly texture and hint of sweetness balance the dish’s savory richness.
Green Beans	Lightly sautéed or steamed green beans add freshness and color to the plate.
Mac and Cheese	The cheesy, creamy consistency offers a decadent match to the rustic flavors of the gravy.

3. Garnishing for Presentation

Presentation matters when serving this comfort food. A few extra touches can elevate the dish:

• Sprinkle fresh parsley or chopped chives over the gravy for a pop of green and fresh flavor.
• Add a pinch of paprika on top for a subtle smoky kick and vibrant color.
• Serve in a cast-iron skillet or a rustic dish to highlight the traditional charm of this meal.

4. Complementary Beverages

Pairing the right drink with dove and gravy can round out the dining experience. Consider the following options:

Beverage	Notes
Sweet Tea	A Southern staple that provides a refreshing, slightly sweet contrast to the savory flavors.
Red Wine	Opt for a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir that enhances the richness of the gravy.
Craft Beer	A crisp lager or pale ale complements the earthy and robust taste of the dove and gravy.
Sparkling Water	For a lighter option, flavored sparkling water with a twist of citrus can cleanse the palate.

5. Seasonal Variations

For a seasonal twist, adapt the serving suggestions based on the time of year:

• In fall and winter, serve with roasted seasonal vegetables like butternut squash or parsnips for a hearty meal.
• In spring and summer, opt for lighter sides such as a cucumber-tomato salad or a tangy coleslaw to balance the meal.

Serve everything hot and fresh to make the most of the rich flavors and textures. These serving ideas ensure our dove and gravy recipe becomes the centerpiece of an incredible and inviting meal.

Make-Ahead And Storage Tips

Preparing dove and gravy ahead of time can save us time while preserving its rich, comforting flavors. Proper storage ensures the dish remains delicious and safe to eat. Below, we’ll explore how to handle make-ahead preparations and maintain the quality of leftovers.

Make-Ahead Preparation Tips

• Cooking the Dove: We can sear the doves and prepare the gravy separately up to 1 day in advance. Store them separately to maintain the texture of the meat and the consistency of the gravy.
• Gravy Tips: To prevent the gravy from thickening excessively, we recommend stopping the cooking process just before it reaches your preferred consistency. Finish thickening it with heat right before serving.
• Freezing Options: If desired, we can freeze the dove after searing but before simmering it in gravy for up to 3 months in an airtight, freezer-safe container.

Storage Guidelines

To store leftovers properly, follow these steps:

Component	Storage Method	Duration
Cooked Dove	Refrigerate in an airtight container	Up to 3 days
Gravy	Refrigerate in a separate airtight container	Up to 3 days
Combined Dish	Refrigerate (if gravy and dove are mixed)	Up to 2 days
Frozen Dove	Airtight, freezer-safe container	Up to 3 months

Reheating Tips

• On the Stove: For the best texture and flavor, reheat the dove and gravy on low heat in a skillet. Add a splash of milk or water to the gravy if it has thickened.
• Microwave Option: Cover and reheat small portions in the microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring frequently.
• Frozen Dove: If frozen, let it thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating using the methods above.

Extra Tips for Freshness

• Prevent Dryness: To keep the meat moist during reheating, spoon some gravy over the doves.
• Stir that Sauce: Stir the gravy occasionally while reheating to ensure it remains smooth and lump-free.
• Serve Freshly Garnished: Once reheated, add a sprinkle of fresh herbs or paprika to revive the presentation and flavor.

Properly planning and storing dove and gravy allows us to enjoy this delightful meal on busy days without compromising its signature Southern charm.

Conclusion

Dove and gravy is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of tradition and flavor. With the perfect balance of tender dove, rich gravy, and your favorite sides, this dish transforms simple ingredients into something truly special.

By following the steps and tips we’ve shared, you’ll be able to create a comforting and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or a quiet evening at home, dove and gravy brings warmth and joy to the table.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is dove and gravy?

Dove and gravy is a classic Southern comfort dish made with tender, seared dove meat and a creamy, savory gravy. It’s traditionally served over biscuits, mashed potatoes, or rice, creating a hearty meal with rustic charm.

How do you tenderize dove meat for this recipe?

You can tenderize dove meat by soaking it in a marinade, such as buttermilk, for a few hours before cooking. This process helps soften the meat and enhances its flavor.

What are the essential ingredients for dove and gravy?

For the dove, you’ll need dove breasts, flour, seasoning, and oil for searing. For the gravy, you’ll require drippings from the dove, flour, milk or broth, and additional seasoning for flavor.

What tools do I need to prepare dove and gravy?

Key tools include a sharp knife, a cast iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan, tongs, a whisk for making the gravy, and plates for dredging the dove in flour.

How do I make gravy from the dove drippings?

After searing the dove, use the pan drippings to make gravy by whisking in flour, then gradually adding milk or broth while stirring until the mixture thickens to your desired consistency.

What side dishes pair well with dove and gravy?

Dove and gravy are best served with freshly baked biscuits, creamy mashed potatoes, or steamed white rice. These bases soak up the gravy beautifully, enhancing the dish’s flavors.

Can I prepare dove and gravy in advance?

Yes, you can sear the dove and prepare the gravy ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator, then reheat gently on the stove for optimal flavor and texture.

How should I store leftovers of dove and gravy?

Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the dove and gravy separately for up to 3 months, ensuring proper labeling.

How do I reheat dove and gravy without losing flavor?

Reheat dove and gravy slowly on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of broth or milk to the gravy while stirring to restore its creamy consistency.

Is dove and gravy gluten-free?

Traditional recipes use all-purpose flour, which contains gluten. However, you can make the dish gluten-free by substituting regular flour with a gluten-free alternative for dredging the dove and thickening the gravy.