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Quail are small, tender birds that cook in minutes, making them a quick but special dinner. These are rubbed with olive oil, rosemary, thyme, oregano, garlic, paprika and lemon and roasted until golden.
Cooking Quail
Quail cook very quickly and dry out if overdone, so watch them closely. Roast at high heat until the skin is golden and the juices run clear, usually 12 to 15 minutes. A splash of white wine or chicken broth in the pan keeps them moist and makes a quick sauce.
Kosher Notes
This is a meat (fleishig) recipe. Quail is considered kosher by tradition and is sold by some kosher butchers. If you can’t find kosher quail, use Cornish hen quarters and roast for 25 to 30 minutes.
Leftovers
Leftovers keep for 3 days.
Serving Ideas
Plan on one or two quail per person. Serve them over couscous, rice pilaf or roasted vegetables so the pan juices have something to soak into, or on a bed of greens with pomegranate seeds for a festive first course. Quail are traditionally eaten with your hands, so have napkins ready. They make a special main course for a holiday or a Shabbat dinner when you want something different.

Ingredients
What I use for this recipe
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Method
- Preheat oven to 425°F. Pat quail completely dry with paper towels and place on a rimmed baking sheet.
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, rosemary, thyme, oregano, garlic, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well to form a paste.
- Rub the herb mixture all over each quail, including under the skin where possible. Make sure to season the cavity as well.
- Let quail sit at room temperature for 15 minutes to allow flavors to penetrate.
- Place quail breast-side up on the baking sheet. Drizzle with lemon juice and white wine.
- Roast for 18-20 minutes, until internal temperature reaches 165°F when measured in the thickest part of the thigh.
- Remove from oven and sprinkle with lemon zest. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Notes
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