As a source of food, keep in mind that it is English cuisine which features the most recipes for this bird's delicately flavored meat. Thus, it can be found in everything from baked dishes to souffl�s. The main thing is to know that it can be prepared in just about any way and is suitable for most of the recipes associated with larger fowl, even if the Guinea fowl does lack the robust flavor of its kin.

When served a Guinea fowl some people insist it is basically a chicken; these same people say things like the best white wine is red. But the Guinea fowl has a lot to offer: the breast and the legs can be prepared separately. And the skin can be used to prepare a delicious broth if you add a few bits of saut�ed mushroom.

One of the main cooking features of the Guinea fowl is the difference in texture between the drumstick and the breast. To roast an entire Guinea fowl, stuff it first with half a lemon and a sprig of thyme. Also, cover the breast with a slice of bacon and then cover the whole bird with aluminum foil for the first half hour of cooking. This will make it tenderer.

This fowl can be glazed just like a duck, with a mix of honey, paprika and vinegar. It is baked over a bed of vegetables with a bit of white whine. Or it can be stuffed with pork, salty bacon, onions, anisette and raisins, then served with a sauce made with equal parts of dry and Pedro Xim�nez sherries.

The Guinea fowl can also be prepared papillote-style, with zucchini, eggplant and fried garlic. The breast should be baked for a few minutes beforehand in the oven.

Drumsticks can be prepared with a light marinade, seasoned with thyme and bay leaf, and accompanied by a salad of tomato, green asparagus and tender peas, or a blend of red chicory, strawberries and green apple.

The sauce can be made from olive oil, a few drops of honey and a pinch of paprika. The legs can also be fried with small onions and a dash of red wine, then served with baked potatoes.

Keep in mind that Guinea fowl are quite small, so you should buy several if you are having more than two people over for dinner.