Pheasant Breast, 2 Breasts

Wild Pheasant Breast 2pk is a pack of two wild pheasant breasts — the most convenient and versatile cut from this classic British game bird. Wild pheasant breast is lean, richly flavoured and quick to cook. As a result, it is ideal for a midweek game dinner without the time commitment of a whole bird. Furthermore, the breasts suit a very wide range of cooking methods — from a simple pan-sear to a slow braise in cream and mushrooms. In particular, wrapping in bacon before cooking helps prevent drying out.

About British Wild Game Birds

Wild game birds are among the most sustainably sourced and naturally reared proteins available. They live free in their natural habitat. As a result, they feed on wild grains, berries, insects and seeds throughout their lives. This diet gives their meat a depth of flavour that no farmed bird can replicate. In particular, the meat is leaner and more muscular than domestic poultry. Furthermore, it is darker in colour — reflecting a life of genuine exercise and wild feeding. However, this leanness means wild game requires careful cooking. It is less forgiving than chicken and rewards those who pay attention to temperature and timing. Additionally, wild game is highly seasonal in the UK. The shooting seasons are strictly regulated to ensure sustainable populations year after year.

The game birds available from The Artisan Food Company are sourced from well-managed British shoots and trusted European suppliers. In particular, every bird is properly hung and prepared before despatch. As a result, the flavour is fully developed and the texture is exactly as it should be. Furthermore, game birds should always be brought to room temperature before cooking. Cold birds go into the oven unevenly and the result is always disappointing. Moreover, a brief rest after cooking is essential — it allows the juices to redistribute and makes carving considerably easier. Additionally, the carcasses of game birds make the most extraordinary stock and should never be thrown away after the meal.

How to Cook & Serve

To get the very best from Wild Pheasant Breast 2pk:

• Wrap each breast in streaky bacon or season generously and pan-fry in butter over a medium heat.
• Cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side until golden — however, the breast must not be overcooked or it becomes dry.
• Alternatively, braise in a covered dish with cider, shallots and cream at 160°C for 30 to 35 minutes.
• Furthermore, sliced pheasant breast works well in a warm salad or as a topping for a game risotto.

Perfect Pairings

Wild Pheasant Breast 2pk pairs beautifully with:

• A cream, mushroom and thyme sauce — one of the finest accompaniments for pheasant breast
• A light Pinot Noir, white Burgundy or an Alsace Riesling alongside
• Buttered celeriac mash, roasted parsnips or braised lentils
• A splash of sloe gin or Armagnac in the pan sauce adds an outstanding depth

Storage: Keep refrigerated and use by the date shown. Bring to room temperature for 30 minutes before cooking. Wild game birds also freeze well — freeze on the day of delivery for best results. Furthermore, defrost slowly in the fridge overnight before cooking. The carcass makes outstanding stock — simmer with aromatics for 2 to 3 hours after the meal. Delivered fresh and oven-ready.

However you cook it, Wild Pheasant Breast 2pk brings a depth of flavour and a connection to the natural world that no farmed bird can replicate. Moreover, taking the time to cook game well is one of the great pleasures of the kitchen.