Can You Buy Quail at the Grocery Store? A Guide to Finding and Cooking Delicious Quail

Quail may seem like an unusual protein to find at your everyday grocery store. However, the availability of quail in stores is increasing as more people discover just how delicious this bird can be!

In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about buying quail meat at grocery stores and what to do with it once you get it home We’ll also share some insider tips for selecting, prepping, and cooking quail so you can enjoy this underrated poultry in your home kitchen.

What is Quail?

Quail is a small game bird that is a relative of chickens, turkeys, and pheasants. But unlike its larger cousins, quail is petite – averaging just 4-8 ounces. There are multiple species of quail, but the most common varieties raised for meat include:

• Coturnix Quail: The most common farm-raised quail. Small and efficient to produce.

• Bobwhite Quail: Larger than Coturnix and favored by hunters. Less common in grocery stores.

• California Quail The state bird of California Not typically farm-raised for meat

Quail meat is praised for its mild, sweet flavor. It’s leaner than chicken yet richer than other poultry. The small size makes it perfect for single servings. Plus it cooks faster than chicken or turkey.

Below, we’ll go over where to find quail and tips for cooking it at home.

Buying Quail at the Grocery Store

A decade ago, it was nearly impossible to find quail for sale at everyday supermarkets. But today, several major grocery chains carry farm-raised, fresh quail in the specialty poultry section:

Specialty Groceries

• Whole Foods – Look for fresh Coturnix quail in the poultry section. It may be mixed in with the chickens or in a special game meat area.

• Sprouts – Also stocks fresh, whole Coturnix quail. Check the chicken section or game meat cooler.

• Bristol Farms – This upscale market sells fresh and frozen quail in individual packs. Look in the poultry department.

• Gelson’s – Another high-end grocer selling fresh quail among the chilled chickens and other poultry.

Mainstream Chains

• Safeway – Most locations now sell fresh quail in the packaged poultry section. Look near the organic and free-range chickens.

• Albertsons – Stocks fresh quail at some stores, typically near the specialty meats. Check the service counter if not in the poultry cooler.

• HEB – Many stores in Texas carry fresh quail produced by local farms. Look in the poultry section.

• Wegmans – Select stores, especially on the East Coast, sell fresh quail in individual packs. Find it by the specialty meats and chickens.

• Publix – Some Florida locations carry fresh quail in the poultry department or at the service counter. Supply varies by store.

In addition to fresh quail, you may also find frozen quail in the poultry section at stores like Trader Joe’s, Ralph’s, Food 4 Less and more. Frozen quail can be an affordable option, though fresh tastes best.

When buying fresh quail, look for plump, clean birds with no tears or blemishes on the skin. Quail is extremely perishable so use within 1-2 days of purchasing. Prices range from $5-8 for two whole quail.

How To Prepare and Cook Quail

Once you get your quail home, proper handling and cooking are key to enjoying its delicate flavor. Here are some tips:

Handling Raw Quail

• Rinse quail under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Refrigerate until ready to cook.

• Quail is often sold with innards still intact. Remove giblets from the body cavity before cooking.

• Use quail within 1-2 days for optimal freshness and quality. The small, fragile bones can quickly bruise the delicate meat.

Cooking Methods

• Roasting: Roast quail at 450°F for 15-25 minutes until browned and cooked through.

• Grilling: Grill over direct high heat, turning frequently, for 8-12 minutes until browned and 165°F.

• Sautéing: Cook in an oiled pan over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side until golden.

• Broiling: Place under the broiler 3-4 inches from heat, cook each side for 5-7 minutes until done.

• Poaching: Gently simmer in broth, wine or water for 8-10 minutes until 165°F internally.

• Baking: Bake at 375°F on a sheet pan for 18-22 minutes until golden brown and cooked through.

For safety, quail should reach an internal temperature of at least 165°F as measured by a food thermometer before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Brush with sauce or rub for added flavor

• Stuff with rice, herbs or cornbread

• Pair with cranberry sauce, fruit relish or chutney

• Serve atop fresh salad greens for an entree

• Slider-size meat makes perfect appetizers or hors d’oeuvres

With its petite size, quick cook time and mild, adaptable taste – quail gives you an exciting new option for everyday meals. Follow our tips for selecting, preparing and cooking quail from the grocery store. In no time, you’ll see that this delicate bird offers an approachable yet sophisticated eating experience.

Quail Recipes to Try at Home

Once you discover how easy and delicious it is, quail can become a regular in your dinner rotation. Here are some appetizing recipe ideas:

Parmesan Crusted Quail

• Ingredients: Quail, butter, parmesan, breadcrumbs, fresh herbs

• Method: Coat quail in butter, dip in cheese and crumbs, roast until crispy

Tequila Lime Quail

• Ingredients: Quail, tequila, lime, chili powder, cilantro

• Method: Marinate quail in tequila citrus sauce, grill until charred

Quail Saltimbocca

• Ingredients: Quail, prosciutto, fresh sage, white wine

• Method: Wrap in prosciutto, pan sear, make pan sauce

Quail in Creamy Mushroom Sauce

• Ingredients: Quail, mushrooms, shallots, cream, thyme

• Method: Sauté quail and make rich mushroom pan gravy

Bacon-Wrapped Quail Appetizers

• Ingredients: Quail, bacon, brown sugar, cayenne

• Method: Wrap quail in bacon, roast on sheet pan

With this beginner’s guide, you now have all the info you need to buy, prep, cook and enjoy quail from your local grocery store. Don’t be intimidated by this petite bird. With a little practice in the kitchen, soon you’ll be impressing dinner guests with your very own sophisticated yet easy quail recipes.