Trussing

It is well worth trussing all game birds, not only to keep them in a neat compact shape, but to help them cook more evenly. Thread a trussing needle with thin string. For small birds such as grouse, partridge and quail make a stitch through the upper part of the wings to secure them to the body then pass the needle in the opposite direction through the thighs. Tie the two ends of the string together. For larger birds, such as pheasant, insert the needle through the wing where it bends, catching the folded back flap of neck skin. Pull the needle out through the other wing. Take another stitch through the lower leg and body, remove the needle and tie the two ends of the string together.