Succulent Grilled Rabbit Loin BBQ
Nutritional value per serving
Calories220kcal
Carbs2gram
Fat7gram
Protein30gram
Ingredients
- Rabbit loin, fresh (choose firm, pale pink loin with no smell)400 g
- Olive oil, extra virgin2 tbsp
- Garlic cloves, minced (fresh is best for flavor)3 piece
- Fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1 tsp dried rosemary)1 tbsp
- Salt (preferably kosher salt)1 tsp
- Black pepper, freshly ground0.5 tsp
- Lemon juice, fresh1 tbsp
This recipe guides you through grilling rabbit loin over a BBQ to achieve a juicy and flavorful dish. Rabbit loin is a lean, delicate meat that grills quickly, making it perfect for a quick BBQ meal. The recipe includes essential food safety tips - cook the rabbit loin to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure it's safe to eat. Ingredients are common and simple. This dish is low in fat and carbs, making it suitable for paleo and low-carb diets. The total cost of ingredients is approximately $15 (12€ / £10 / ₹1100). Total calories per serving: about 220 kcal. The recipe is easy in difficulty, with a total cooking time of about 30 minutes (including prep).
Preparation instructions
Marinate the Rabbit Loin
1In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped rosemary, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Place the rabbit loin in the bowl, coating it well with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for 15-20 minutes. This will enhance the flavor and keep the meat tender.
Prepare the Grill
2Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F to 400°F / 190°C to 205°C). Ensure grill grates are clean and oiled lightly to prevent sticking.
Grill the Rabbit Loin
3Place the marinated rabbit loin on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side. To prevent drying out, avoid pressing down the meat. Use a meat thermometer to check internal temperature.
Check for Doneness Safely
4Rabbit loin should reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to be safe to eat. Insert a meat thermometer into the thickest part of the loin to measure. After removing from the grill, let the meat rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This helps juices redistribute for a juicy result.
Serve and Enjoy
5Slice the rabbit loin against the grain and serve immediately with sides of your choice like grilled vegetables or salad.
Cooking Tips
1Avoid cross-contamination by using separate utensils and plates for raw and cooked rabbit.
2If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stove.
3Letting the meat rest after grilling retains moisture and improves texture.
4Use a reliable meat thermometer to ensure safe cooking temperatures.
Equipment Needed
- Grill or BBQ grill
- Meat thermometer
- Bowl for marinade
- Tongs or spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Grocery Shopping List
- [ ] Rabbit loin (approx. 400g) - $12: Look for fresh, firm meat with a pale pink color, avoid any with unpleasant odor.
- [ ] Olive oil (extra virgin) - $0.50 (for 2 tbsp): Choose a good quality olive oil for best flavor.
- [ ] Fresh garlic (3 cloves) - $0.30: Fresh cloves offer the best taste.
- [ ] Fresh rosemary - $1 (or dried rosemary $0.20): Fresh is preferable, but dried works too.
- [ ] Lemons (1 for juice) - $0.50: Fresh lemon juice brightens the flavor.
- [ ] Salt and pepper - pantry basics
Total approximate cost: $15
FAQ
How do I know when the rabbit loin is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the loin. The safe internal temperature is 160°F (71°C). The meat should be firm and no longer pink inside.
Can I marinate the rabbit loin longer?
Yes, you can marinate for up to 2 hours to enhance flavor, but avoid much longer as acid in the marinade can affect texture.
What sides pair well with grilled rabbit loin?
Grilled vegetables, fresh salad, roasted potatoes, or rice complement the dish well.
Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh rosemary?
Yes, you can substitute 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary with about 1 teaspoon dried rosemary.