Pheasant is a rich, intensely flavoured menu alternative; wonderful accompanied with seasonal winter vegetables and a full-bodied glass of red wine. Pheasants have little fat on them, so slow cooking on a lower heat is best. Hens are excellent for roasting, they may be larded to keep them from drying out. Try taking off the legs for use in a stock, or to braise them coq-au-vin style, leaving the crown for immediate service. Serve with apples, pears and quince, wild mushrooms; fresh chestnuts and walnuts; butternut squash and pumpkins; Jerusalem artichokes; celeriac; parsnips; swedes; red, green and savoy cabbages.