California Quail Perched in Shrubs
Hiking in Santa Barbara quickly brings you into contact with wild things. Right in our own backyard we have run into bobcats, rabbits, coyotes, racoons, skunks, all manner of birds and the occasional reptile. Yesterday, I heard then saw a California quail. "Cute" as they are, I think the look even better grilled on a salad. You usually find them in the freezer section and the are already "glove boned." They lend themselves well to stuffing with forcemeats, mushrooms and the like.
Here is a recipe for the summer BBQ season. If the thought of consuming the California State bird deters you, use squab or cornish game hens instead. Serve with a slightly chilled syrah.
Tastefully,
Chef Michael Hutchings
