A strong-tasting game bird like grouse is so tempting made this way. The lemon juice gives the savory sauce a refreshing spark. This versatile main dish is just as good prepared with chicken or turkey. —Philan Welsh, Spencer, Wisconsin

Ingredients

• 2 quarts water
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 grouse or squab (3/4 to 1 pound each)
• 1/2 cup chopped onion
• 1/2 cup sliced fresh mushrooms
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon pepper
• 1/4 cup heavy whipping cream
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh parsley
• Toast or hot cooked rice
• Chopped fresh parsley, optional

Directions

1. In a Dutch oven, bring water, bay leaf and grouse to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer until meat is tender. Remove grouse. When cool enough to handle, remove meat from bones; discard bones. Cut meat into bite-size pieces. Strain broth; set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, saute onion and mushrooms in butter until tender. Add flour. Stir in the broth, lemon juice, salt and pepper; bring to a boil. Cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Add grouse and heat through. Add cream and parsley. Heat through. Serve over toast; garnish with parsley if desired.