Grilled quail with potatoes
Method of preparation
Clean the quail, pat them dry very well with kitchen paper, and cut through the breast to spread them out and cook evenly on the grill. Patting is important because it helps the skin brown appetizingly instead of smothering it.
In a bowl, mix the olive oil, crushed garlic, red pepper, chili pepper, honey, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and thyme.
This marinade is applied to the quail on all sides, rubbing it into the cuts. Leave them in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, and if you have time, you can leave them for 2-3 hours for a deeper flavor.
Wash the small potatoes thoroughly and boil in salted water for about 12-15 minutes, until tender but not falling apart. Drain well. While still warm, mix with the butter, salt, black pepper and finely chopped dill.
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Lightly grease the grate to prevent the meat from sticking.
Place the quails skin side down first and roast for about 7-8 minutes. Then turn them over and roast for another 7-10 minutes, basting with the remaining marinade if necessary.
Check for doneness in the thickest part of the leg - the juices should run clear and the meat should easily separate from the bone. If the grill is too hot and the quails start to brown too quickly, move them to a cooler area and roast for a few more minutes.
The potatoes can be briefly placed on the grill or in a grill pan for 3-4 minutes, just enough to get a light brown color and absorb the aroma. They are served together with the roasted quail, sprinkled with more fresh dill. The dish goes well with a fresh salad, a spicy sauce or a glass of red wine.
Leftovers will keep in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. They are best reheated in a moderate oven for 10 minutes to keep them juicy and prevent them from drying out.
If you love sophisticated quail dishes, try the aromatic quail Burgundy, the festive roasted quail with chestnuts and minced meat, and the succulent quail in a casserole with bacon and onions for more inspiring ideas.
