Bird drum

Bird's head cheese – a traditional delicacy for festive meals and beyond, this recipe is a true culinary gem, full of flavor and aroma. With a perfect mix of turkey and chicken meat, this dish is easy to prepare and will surely impress everyone who tastes it. Moreover, it is an excellent choice for an appetizer or a hearty breakfast. Let's see how we can achieve this delight step by step!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 45-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes (plus cooling time)
Number of servings: 8-10 servings

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 turkey leg (approximately 600 g deboned)
- 1 chicken breast (approximately 600 g deboned)
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 head of garlic (or to preference)
- 40-50 g powdered gelatin
- 1 heat-resistant roasting bag

Step 1: Preparing the meat
Start by deboning the turkey leg and chicken breast. If you lack experience in deboning, you can ask a butcher for help or buy pre-deboned meat. Then, cut the meat into long, thin strips. This will help evenly distribute the spices and make cooking quicker.

Step 2: Seasoning
In a large bowl, add the strips of meat and sprinkle with salt, pepper, sweet paprika, and dried basil. Mix well, ensuring that all the strips of meat are evenly coated with spices. Freshly added garlic is the secret to an intense aroma, so don't hesitate to crush it well and add it to the mixture.

Step 3: Adding the gelatin
Once you have mixed the spices well, add the powdered gelatin. This will help bind the meat and provide a pleasant texture after baking. Make sure to mix everything very well so that the gelatin is evenly distributed.

Step 4: Packing in the bag
Transfer the mixture into a roasting bag. Make sure to remove as much air from the bag as possible before sealing it tightly. This will allow the meat to cook evenly and prevent it from drying out.

Step 5: Baking
Preheat the oven to 180°C (medium heat). Place the bag with meat in a loaf pan. This will help retain the juice and flavors during baking. Bake for about 45-50 minutes. It is important not to open the oven in the first 30 minutes to allow the meat to cook evenly.

Step 6: Cooling
After the baking time is up, remove the pan from the oven and place a flat wooden cutting board on top of the bag, along with a weight (such as a can or another heavy object). This will help press the meat and provide a compact texture. Let it cool in the pan, then refrigerate to set completely, preferably overnight.

Step 7: Slicing and serving
The next day, take the cheese out of the fridge and slice it thinly. You can serve it alongside pickles, fresh bread, or even with a summer salad. It is an excellent choice for an appetizer at a party or for a hearty breakfast!

Useful tips:
- Variations: You can experiment with different spices, such as thyme or oregano, or you can add vegetables like peppers or onions for extra flavor.
- Gelatin: Make sure to use good quality gelatin for the best results. Gelatin helps maintain the shape of the cheese and gives it a pleasant texture.
- Meat temperature: Always check the internal temperature of the meat to ensure it is cooked properly. Chicken meat should reach an internal temperature of 75°C.
- Pairings: This bird's head cheese pairs wonderfully with a glass of white wine or a refreshing cocktail, perfect for complementing the intense flavors of the meat.

Nutritional benefits:
This bird's head cheese is rich in protein, providing an excellent source of energy. Turkey meat is known for its low-fat content and its benefits for heart health. Garlic has antioxidant properties and can help strengthen the immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other types of meat?
Absolutely! This recipe can also be adapted with other types of meat, such as pork or beef, depending on your preferences.

2. How long can it be stored in the fridge?
The bird's head cheese keeps well in the fridge for up to a week, but it is recommended to consume it as soon as possible for the best flavors.

3. Can I freeze the cheese?
Yes, the cheese can be frozen. Make sure to wrap it well in plastic wrap and then in an airtight container. It can be kept in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Now that you have all the necessary information, you are ready to prepare a special bird's head cheese! Whether you enjoy it with family or offer it to guests, this simple and delicious recipe will surely be a success. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1 turkey thigh 1 chicken breast (after deboning, about 1.2 kg of meat remains) salt pepper sweet paprika basil about 1 head of garlic 40-50 g powdered gelatin roasting bag

 Tags:  bird drum drum bird meat recipes