Ingredients:
- 1 capon (6-8 pounds)
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onions
- 1/2 cup finely chopped celery
- 1/2 cup finely chopped mushrooms
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step 1: Prepare the Capon
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Rinse the capon thoroughly with cold water and pat it dry with paper towels. Place the capon on a cutting board and remove the giblets from the cavity.
Step 2: Prepare the Stuffing
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions, celery, mushrooms, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and let it cool.
In a mixing bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, parsley, and the cooled sautéed vegetables. Mix well. Slowly add the chicken broth while stirring, until the stuffing is moist but not soggy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 3: Stuff the Capon
Carefully spoon the stuffing into the capon’s cavity, packing it loosely. Make sure to leave enough room for the stuffing to expand as it cooks. Secure the capon’s legs using kitchen twine or a skewer to keep the stuffing inside.
Step 4: Roast the Capon
Place the stuffed capon on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Season the outside of the capon with salt and pepper. Cover the pan with aluminum foil and roast in the preheated oven for about 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Once the capon is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for about 15-20 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a moist and flavorful dish. Serve the stuffed capon with your favorite side dishes and enjoy!
Now that you have mastered the art of cooking a stuffed capon, you can confidently prepare this impressive dish for your next celebration. Your guests will be delighted by the delicious flavors and tender meat, making it a memorable dining experience. Bon appétit!