Traditional polenta served with small roasted birds from the Bergamo hills. This high protein mediterranean dish is a carnivore specialty deeply tied to northern Italian hunting traditions.
Preheat the oven to 400°F and ensure game birds are cleaned and patted dry. Rub each bird with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and place a sage leaf inside.
Heat butter in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the birds on all sides for 2–3 minutes until skin is golden, then arrange them in a roasting pan.
Roast birds in the oven at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, basting occasionally. Confirm internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe doneness.
Meanwhile, bring chicken stock to a boil in a large saucepan. Slowly whisk in cornmeal over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and stir constantly for 25–30 minutes until polenta thickens and becomes creamy.
Season polenta with salt and a knob of butter for added richness. Serve hot polenta on plates, topped with roasted birds and a drizzle of pan juices as the final touch.