Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a delicious, healthy meal that doesn't require hours in the kitchen? Then look no further! This crockpot goose breast recipe is your answer. Goose breast, often perceived as a fancy, complicated ingredient, is surprisingly easy to cook to juicy perfection in a slow cooker. This recipe delivers a flavorful, tender, and impressive meal, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, showcasing the best of homemade cooking.
Ingredients:
- 1 (3-4 pound) goose breast, skin scored
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 2 carrots, roughly chopped
- 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Prep the Goose: Pat the goose breast dry with paper towels. Score the skin in a crosshatch pattern, being careful not to cut into the meat. This helps the fat render and the skin crisp up.
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Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Sear the Goose: Increase the heat to medium-high. Sear the goose breast skin-side down in the skillet for 5-7 minutes, until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip and sear the other side for 2-3 minutes. This step adds incredible flavor and texture.
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Slow Cooker Magic: Transfer the seared goose breast to your slow cooker. Add the sautéed vegetables, chicken broth, white wine (if using), thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
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Cook Low and Slow: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the goose is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked perfectly.
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Rest and Serve: Remove the goose breast from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product. Skim any excess fat from the cooking liquid. Slice the goose breast against the grain and serve with the delicious pan juices and your favorite sides, such as roasted potatoes or a simple green salad.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Crockpot Goose:
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Ensure there's enough space for the goose to cook evenly.
- Score the skin deeply: This ensures the fat renders properly and the skin gets crispy.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most accurate way to ensure the goose is cooked to perfection.
- Rest the goose: Allowing the goose to rest helps it retain its juices.
Variations:
- Apple Cider Goose: Substitute apple cider for the white wine and add 1/2 cup of chopped apples to the slow cooker.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs like sage, marjoram, or oregano.
- Citrus Infusion: Add the zest and juice of 1 orange or lemon for a brighter flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of the goose breast and serving size. However, goose is a good source of protein and contains essential nutrients. For a more precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator based on your specific ingredients and serving size. This recipe constitutes a healthy meal option.
This crockpot goose breast recipe is a testament to how easy and delicious healthy meals can be. It's a perfect example of simple, yet elegant, homemade cooking. Enjoy this quick dinner idea that will impress your friends and family!