Partridge and Pears


On the first day of Christmas my true love gave  to me…a partridge in a pear tree. So goes the first verse of the traditional Christmas song.Partridge and pears – what a great combo on a plate at Christmas! The partridge season starts in October through to January, meaning these little birds are available to order from good butchers during the festive season.One young bird weighs around 350g – a good size roast for one person.Flavour is subtlety gamey and the best sauce is a simple pan gravy made from roasting juices and stock. As for the pears, simply quarter, remove core and pips and poach gently in a light sugar syrup with the addition of star anise and a cinnamon stick for gentle spicing. Buy two birds and enjoy the feast with your true love…aaahhhh….