Tandoori partridge

Method

• step 1

  To make the marinade, put the spices, salt, garlic, onion, chilli and lemon in a food processor and blitz until as smooth as possible. Add the yoghurt and pulse a couple of times, taking care not to overblend.

• step 2

  Tip into a bowl and stir in the colouring paste, if using. (Only use food colouring paste intended for cake decorating as liquid food colouring won’t tint the marinade enough.)

• step 3

  Remove the partridge skin and cut each bird in half, first through the spine and then breastbone. Score the thighs and breasts several times with a sharp knife. Drop the halved partridges into the spiced yogurt and mix with hands until well coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl with clingfilm and leave to marinate overnight.

• step 4

  45 minutes before serving, light a small barbecue (or preheat a gas barbecue for about 5 minutes). Take the tandoori pieces out of the marinade and tap off the excess yoghurt. Put the partridge on the barbecue and cook for 6 minutes on each side or until the meat is cooked but tender and nicely charred. Serve with lemon wedges, chopped iceberg and naan bread.