The Epicure's Almanac or Diary of Good Living
July 26th : HAUNCH OF VENISON
After the haunch has been well rubbed, till quite dry, with a coarse cloth, envelop it completely in buttered white paper, then lay a paste of flour and water, about half an inch in thickness over the fat portion; secure this by other sheets of paper, and tie them on with flat narrow tape; put the haunch into a cradle spit, and be sure that the fire is strong and bright; begin to baste with clarified dripping immediately, or thepaperwill be destroyed. You may allow from ten to fifteen minutes to every pound, according to the size of the joint.
Twenty minutes before it is completely roasted, take off the papers and paste, and baste with fresh butter, using flour to froth it. It is usual to put a paper frill round the knuckle; but no one has ever been bold enough to assert that such an ornament improved the flavour of the joint. Serve with gravy sauce quite plain, and dissolved currant jelly.