Hare marinated and braised in red wine in this classic Italian game preparation. This high protein mediterranean dish is a rich, intensely flavored carnivore family dinner from the countryside.
Combine hare pieces, red wine, carrot, celery, onion, garlic, bay leaves, juniper berries, and rosemary in a large bowl. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 6 hours, turning once for even flavor infusion.
Remove hare from marinade; pat dry with paper towels. Strain vegetables and reserve the marinade for braising later.
Heat olive oil in a wide heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add pancetta and cook until lightly browned. Add hare pieces and sear until deep golden on all sides, working in batches and managing heat to avoid steaming.
Add the reserved vegetables to the pot and cook for 5 minutes, stirring. Pour in reserved wine marinade and add salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer, then cover tightly and reduce heat to low.
Braised gently for about 2 hours, checking every 30 minutes to maintain low moist heat. Turn hare pieces halfway through. When meat is tender and sauce reduced, adjust seasoning and serve hot with some sauce spooned over.