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Pheasant under glass

The aroma of Pheasant under glass wafts through my house like a siren's song. As I sit down to enjoy the culinary delight, I can feel the velvety richness of the succulent pheasant and its indulgent accompaniments.

Pheasant under glass


My plate is dappled with the dish’s profuse components, each carefully arranged to create an aesthetically pleasing presentation – bacon-wrapped drumsticks, mushrooms, and shallots artfully interspersed with a variety of herbs. I tuck into the ensemble and am met with a medley of delightful tastes and textures.

The pheasant is juicy yet firm, its exquisite flavour propelled by a hint of smokiness from the bacon. This is complemented by the tartness of mushrooms and shallots, while the herbs provide a subtle herbal sweetness. All these nuances conspire to create a harmonious symphony in my mouth.

The texture of the dish is out-of-this-world. Every morsel is enveloped in a delicate balm of clarified butter that not only provides a pleasant glaze but also helps to seal in the juices of the pheasant. When combined with the succulence of the meat, the result is a truly divine sensation.

Pheasant under glass is an interesting gourmand’s choice, providing a unique combination of flavour and texture that should be savoured and enjoyed. Whether enjoyed as a main course or a special occasion dish, its sophisticated charm can bring any dinner party to life.

The origin of Pheasant under glass

Mentioned within the annals of French cuisine, Pheasant under Glass has been a delectable dish cherished by epicureans around the world for centuries. Oftentimes simply referred to as “Pheasant a l’Estal”, its history can be traced as far back as the 1600s during a period known as the Grand Siècle—otherwise known as Louis XIV’s Golden Age.

In 1651, an elaborate celebration was thrown to commemorate the end of the Fronde rebellion. Held by Queen Anne of Austria, guests at the celebration were surprised to find a grand service of sublime fare amongst which was the famed Pheasant under Glass.

Delicately prepared, the pheasant is typically served with its head and wings intact, accompanied by truffle-based jus, foie gras, cognac and armagnac. Served in its own terrine, the cocoon of glass creates a luxurious presentation of the succulent bird that could seduce any dining experience.

Moreover, its creation is celebrated to such a degree that it was immortalized in the book “Le Cuisinier Francios” published in 1651 by renowned chef Francois Pierre La Varenne. To this day, Pheasant under Glass remains widely popular, even transcending traditional taste buds in some of the most respected restaurants throughout the world.

As its popularity continues to flourish, so too does its elaborate history. While the exact origin of Pheasant under Glass is not quite known, its legacy is etched into the culinary consciousness. It’s savory and fragrant flavors have charmed palates for centuries, and its exquisite presentation has made it a hallmark of haute cuisine.

FAQs about Pheasant under glass

How do you cook pheasant so it isn't dry?

1. Brine the pheasant in a mix of salt and water for up to 24 hours to lock in moisture.

2. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F.

3. Rub softened butter over the breast and legs of the pheasant and season with salt, pepper and your favorite spices.

4. Place the bird on a roasting pan or sheet. If you wish, add some herbs and vegetables, such as garlic and onions, around the pheasant before baking.

5. Roast the bird at 425 degrees F until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F, about 1 1/2 to 2 hours.

6. Baste the bird with the pan juices every half hour until it has finished cooking.

7. Transfer the pheasant to a cutting board and tent it with foil. Allow it to rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.


Is pheasant considered a delicacy?

Yes, pheasant is considered a delicacy in many cultures around the world. In Europe, it is often served in fine restaurants and at formal dinners. Pheasant is also popular in some parts of Asia, such as Japan and China.


What does pheasant taste like?

Pheasant typically has a milder flavor than chicken or turkey. It is slightly gamey and can have sweet, nutty, and earthy flavors depending on the preparation.


What is squab under glass?

Squab under glass is a classic French dish traditionally made with squab (young pigeon) served in a terrine and baked beneath a sheet of puff pastry. The squab is cooked with butter, herbs, and seasonings until tender and then served with a sauce or gravy.


Types of Pheasant under glass

For centuries, diners have been captivated by the culinary wonder of pheasant under glass. The alluring dish, thought to have originated in France, is a combination of delectable flavors, textures and aromas that are difficult to match. With its complex ingredients and intricate presentation, it's no surprise why this timeless classic has become a staple at fashionable banquets and formal dinners alike.

At its heart, pheasant under glass utilizes succulent pheasant meat, typically taken from the breast or thigh. This meat is expertly cooked and delicately carved into small cubes or medallions and arranged within a shallow glass dish. A variety of accompaniments are then added to compliment the flavorful fowl, including poached eggs, sautéed bacon slices, mushrooms, ham, truffles and shallots. Once assembled, the lid of the glass dish is sealed, trapping the steam and fragrant aroma of the ingredients and creating an unforgettable cuisine experience.

Whether presented on its own as an appetizer or included as part of an extravagant meal, pheasant under glass is sure to tantalize even the most discerning palate. Experienced chefs have developed many variations of the traditional recipe over time, often incorporating unique and interesting elements. Variations often replace the pheasant with chicken, duck or other wild game meats, while adding colorful vegetables, herbs and spices for a truly original flavor.

Though certainly not a dish for the faint-hearted, pheasant under glass is sure to make any occasion special. Whether served at a private dinner party or a gourmet restaurant, the fragrant aroma and exquisite flavors of this timeless classic will surely be fondly remembered by all who partake. So if you're looking for something truly extraordinary, look no further than the grandeur of pheasant under glass.