Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's perfect for chilly evenings? Look no further than this incredibly easy and delicious goose crock pot recipe! This recipe transforms a whole goose into a tender, juicy masterpiece with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend gatherings. Forget complicated recipes and long cooking times; this method unlocks the goose's full potential in your slow cooker, leaving you with a healthy and satisfying meal the whole family will adore. Get ready to experience homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- One (4-5 pound) whole goose, giblets removed
- 1 large onion, roughly chopped
- 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
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Goose
Pat the goose dry with paper towels. This step helps the skin crisp up nicely. Season the goose generously inside and out with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic for another minute until fragrant. This step adds depth of flavor to the entire dish.
Step 3: Slow Cooking the Goose
Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the bottom of your slow cooker. Place the seasoned goose on top of the vegetables. Pour the chicken broth and white wine (if using) around the goose.
Step 4: Cooking Time
Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, or until the goose is fork-tender and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it's cooked through.
Step 5: Resting and Serving
Once cooked, carefully remove the goose from the slow cooker and let it rest for at least 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful bird. Carve the goose and serve with the delicious pan juices and your favorite side dishes. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips for Goose Perfection:
- For crispier skin: If you desire extra crispy skin, you can broil the goose for the last 10-15 minutes of cooking time, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Adjust seasoning: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices according to your preference. Experiment with different combinations!
- Make it a gravy: Strain the pan juices from the slow cooker and thicken them with a cornstarch slurry for a delicious gravy to accompany your goose.
Variations:
- Apple and Cranberry Goose: Add 1 cup of chopped apples and 1/2 cup of dried cranberries to the slow cooker along with the vegetables.
- Citrus Goose: Add the zest and juice of one orange or lemon for a zesty twist.
- Root Vegetable Goose: Include other root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes for added sweetness and nutrients.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of the goose and serving size. However, goose is a good source of protein and provides several essential nutrients. For a precise nutritional breakdown, use an online nutritional calculator after inputting the specific ingredients and quantities used in your recipe. This recipe contributes to a healthy meal plan with its lean protein and hearty vegetables.
This goose crock pot recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for any occasion. It's a delicious and easy way to enjoy this festive bird without the fuss of traditional roasting methods. Enjoy your delicious, homemade meal!