Partridges – Catalan Style

Young partridges are considered to have particularly delicate flesh and are usually roasted, while older ones are most often used in casseroles or stews. Count on one bird per person. There are two main types, both edible: the grey or common partridge and the red-legged partridge. The latter is larger but its flesh is considered to be less delicate. If you do not hunt for these wild birds, they are readily available in speciality shops with a gourmet butcher, or most larger super-markets will have partridges packaged in two’s, and frozen. These seem to be more readily available during the Christmas season. I acquired an excellent cookbook, while on a trip to England many years ago, entitled “Supercook’s Poultry and Game Cookbook”. The investment in this book has returned extraordinary dividends. Over time, I have used most of the recipes in this book, at least once. An absolutely delicious dinner, this recipe may be served with mashed potatoes, and buttered baby carrots; but make your own choices, you won’t be sorry.