Henry VIII broke his leg during a jousting match in 1536. And he was never the same. Gangrene soon set in and he was in constant pain. The doctors couldn't amputate because it was too risky then. So he turned to comfort food. That's what made him so fat in those later paintings. And, his favorite dish, especially late at night, was fricassee of rabbit. Fricassee of Rabbit. 1 medium wild rabbit 750g -1kg 2 tbsp salt to brine the rabbit if required 2 tbsp olive oil 1 medium white onion 200 g chestnut mushrooms 100 g smoked bacon or pancetta 4 sprigs fresh thyme 50 ml dry white wine 100 ml rabbit or chicken stock 50 ml double cream 1 tbsp mustard 1 handful fresh parsley salt and pepper to taste
