Poultry

Squab

S tier

Squab is young domestic pigeon harvested before full flight muscle toughening—usually about four weeks old—yielding the most tender, luxurious dark poultry on restaurant menus. Breast is plump, skin crisps, and the flavour is rich without adult gaminess. Roast whole at high heat, rest briefly, and serve medium-rare to medium at the breast. A fine-dining staple with foie, cherries, or spiced glaze. Squab is an age/class designation more than a separate breed, though meat breeds produce the best ones.

Also known as: Pigeonneau, Squab