Rabbit Stew

Marinating time not included in prep time.

In a large shallow bowl , combine all the marinade ingredients together and stir to mix well.

Add rabbit pieces and baste them thoroughly.

Cover the dish and leave to marinate over-night or at least 12 hours.

Remove the rabbit from the marinade and dry on kitchen paper.

Strain the marinade into a jug and reserve.

Preheat oven to 350f.

In a flame-proof casserole , fry the bacon strips over moderate heat until they are quite crisp.

Set aside.

Add the onions , garlic and carrots to the fat in the casserole and cook them 5 - 6 minutes , or until lightly colored red.

Add the rabbit pieces and turn frequently to brown them evenly and quickly.

Add the reserved marinade to the casserole and bring to the boil.

Remove casserole from the heat , add the bacon pieces and place in the oven.

Cook for 1 hour or until the thigh of the rabbit is tender when pierced with a fork.

rabbit, bacon, onions, garlic clove, carrots, dry red wine, vegetable oil, salt, black peppercorns, parsley, garlic cloves, bay leaf, dried thyme