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Baked Dove Breasts with Apples

By Kentucky Cooperative Extension Service - Kentucky Nutrition Education Program -

Photo Credit: Kentucky Cooperative Extension Services

With the arrival of September comes dove hunting season. This recipe combines dove and apples in a delicious main dish for fall.

A plate of baked dove breasts smothered in apples and vegetables
Kentucky Cooperative Extension Services

Ingredients

  • 12 dove breasts, cleaned
  • 2 cups buttermilk
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper
  • 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 2 medium apples, diced
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 1 cup orange juice

Directions

  1. In a covered container, soak dove breasts in buttermilk overnight in the refrigerator.
  2. Remove breasts and discard buttermilk. Pat breasts dry with a paper towel. Pre-heat the oven to 350 degrees F.
  3. Stir together salt, pepper, and paprika. Rub mixture onto breasts. Place breasts in shallow greased baking dish and brush with oil. Add diced apples, onions, and celery. Add ½ cup water to the pan and cover tightly.
  4. Bake for 1 hour 15 minutes. After 45 minutes, pour orange juice over breasts and baste. 

Note: Removing skin before cooking can lower fat content. This might also reduce "wild" flavor.