🍗 Fried Rabbit with White Gravy (Southern Style)

🍗 Fried Rabbit with White Gravy (Southern Style)

Ingredients:

For the Rabbit:

• 1 whole rabbit, cut into serving pieces

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 tsp garlic powder

• 1 tsp onion powder

• 1 tsp paprika

• 1½ cups all-purpose flour

• Oil for frying (vegetable or peanut oil works well)

For the White Gravy:

• 2–3 tbsp drippings or oil from frying

• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour

• 2 cups milk or buttermilk

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• Optional: pinch of garlic or onion powder

Instructions:

1. Season the rabbit: Pat rabbit pieces dry with paper towels. Season all over with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika.

2. Coat in flour: In a shallow dish, combine flour with a bit more salt and pepper. Dredge the seasoned rabbit pieces in the flour mixture, coating evenly. Shake off any excess.

3. Fry the rabbit:

   • Heat about ½ inch of oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat.

   • Once the oil is hot (around 350°F / 175°C), carefully add the rabbit pieces.

   • Fry 5–7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature at least 160°F / 71°C).

   • Remove and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate to rest.

4. Make the white gravy:

   • Pour off all but 2–3 tablespoons of the oil from the skillet, leaving the flavorful drippings.

   • Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring constantly, until light golden.

   • Slowly whisk in the milk, stirring to remove any lumps. Cook until thickened to desired consistency.

   • Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic or onion powder.

5. Serve: Place fried rabbit pieces on a plate or platter and ladle warm white gravy over the top.

Serving Suggestions:
Serve with mashed potatoes, collard greens, or cornbread for a true Southern feast.