Baked Quail with Bacon and Dried Fruit

Ingredients:

• 4 quails, cleaned and trimmed
• 8 slices of bacon
• 1/2 cup dried apricots
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup chopped pecans
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Place dried apricots and cranberries in a bowl and cover with boiling water. Let sit for 10 minutes, then drain.
3. Combine drained fruit and chopped pecans in a small bowl and mix well.
4. Using your fingers, carefully loosen the skin of each quail. Divide the fruit mixture evenly between the quails, stuffing it under the skin.
5. Wrap 2 slices of bacon around each quail, securing with toothpicks if necessary.
6. Drizzle the quails with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
7. Place the quails in a baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
8. Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Verdict:

This baked quail with bacon and dried fruit recipe is perfect for a special dinner or holiday feast. The combination of succulent quail, smoky bacon, and sweet dried fruit creates a delicious and memorable flavor experience. The recipe is simple to prepare, but looks and tastes impressive. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with roasted potatoes and vegetables for a hearty meal.
• Add a side of mashed sweet potatoes for a festive touch.
• Pair with a fruity, full-bodied red wine like Zinfandel or Pinot Noir.