Squirrel Recipes: Delicious and Easy Ways to Cook Squirrel Meat

Let's be honest, the idea of squirrel as a meal might make some people wrinkle their noses. But hear me out! There's a whole world of flavour waiting to be discovered in this often overlooked ingredient. And trust me, once you've tried a well-cooked squirrel dish, you'll be wondering why you haven't been enjoying it all along.

I know what you're thinking: "Squirrel? Seriously?" I used to think the same. I always pictured it as something you'd only find in a survivalist's cookbook. But then, a few years back, I went on a camping trip with some friends, and let me tell you, they whipped up a squirrel stew that was absolutely mind-blowing. It was so good, it changed my whole perspective on squirrel meat. Since then, I've been hooked, and I'm here to share my passion with you.

If you're looking for a bit of adventure in the kitchen, or maybe you're trying to make the most of your local wildlife, give squirrel a go. It's surprisingly versatile, and you'd be surprised at the delicious flavours you can unlock. In this article, we're going to dive deep into the world of squirrel cuisine, from sourcing and preparing the meat to whipping up some absolutely delicious recipes that will leave you wanting more. Let's get cooking!

Part 1: The Squirrel: A culinary adventure

Sourcing Squirrel: Where to Find It

Okay, so you're ready to embark on your squirrel culinary adventure, but where do you even begin? Well, if you're lucky enough to live in a rural area, you might spot these little critters scampering around in your garden or the nearby woods. You could also try your luck at a local game dealer or even a farmer's market, although it might be a bit hit-and-miss.

For the more serious squirrel enthusiasts, there's always the option of hunting. But before you head out into the woods, remember that hunting regulations vary from place to place. You'll need a license and a good understanding of the rules in your area. It's crucial to follow all the laws and regulations to ensure responsible and ethical hunting practices. Always consult your local wildlife agency or game warden for the latest regulations and information.

Preparing the Squirrel: Getting Ready to Cook

Once you've got your squirrel, it's time to get down to business and prepare it for cooking. This involves a few steps, and while it might seem a bit intimidating at first, trust me, it's not as complicated as you might think.

1. Skinning and Gutting: Now, this is the part that might get a little messy, so be prepared to get your hands dirty. Start by making a cut from the tail to the neck of the squirrel, and then carefully peel the skin back. Next, you'll need to remove the intestines and internal organs. Be sure to remove the scent glands located near the hindquarters, as they can impart a strong, unpleasant taste.
2. Cleaning and Cutting: After you've removed the skin and organs, give the squirrel a good wash inside and out. Then, it's time to cut it into pieces depending on the recipe you have in mind. I typically remove the legs, separate the ribs, and cut the loin into smaller pieces.
3. Marination: Marination is optional, but I highly recommend it! Squirrel meat is often quite lean, so a good marinade can help to tenderize it and add a burst of flavour. I've had great success with marinades made with soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and a little bit of sugar. Let the meat soak in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, or even better, a few hours, to really allow the flavours to penetrate.

Part 2: Squirrel Recipes: Flavour Explorations

Squirrel Stew: A Classic comfort food

Let's start with a classic! Squirrel stew is a real crowd-pleaser. It's hearty, filling, and perfect for a cozy night in. The slow-cooked meat, combined with carrots, potatoes, onions, and a touch of thyme, creates a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.

Ingredients:

1. 1 pound of squirrel meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
2. 1 tablespoon olive oil
3. 1 large onion, chopped
4. 2 carrots, chopped
5. 2 potatoes, chopped
6. 2 cups beef broth
7. 1 teaspoon thyme
8. Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the squirrel meat and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meat from the pot and set aside.
2. Add the onion, carrots, and potatoes to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes, or until softened.
3. Add the beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add the squirrel meat back to the pot and simmer for an additional 15 minutes. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Squirrel Chili: A Spicy Kick

If you're looking for something a bit spicier, squirrel chili is the perfect choice. It's a great way to use up any leftover squirrel meat, and it's a real crowd-pleaser. Feel free to add your favourite toppings, like sour cream, cheese, and onions.

Ingredients:

1. 1 pound of squirrel meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
2. 1 tablespoon olive oil
3. 1 large onion, chopped
4. 1 green bell pepper, chopped
5. 1 (15-ounce) can of kidney beans, drained and rinsed
6. 1 (15-ounce) can of diced tomatoes, undrained
7. 1 (1-ounce) packet of chili seasoning mix
8. 1/2 cup water

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the squirrel meat and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meat from the pot and set aside.
2. Add the onion and green pepper to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chili seasoning mix, and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the chili has thickened.
4. Add the squirrel meat back to the pot and simmer for an additional 15 minutes. Serve hot with your favourite toppings.

Squirrel Curry: A Flavorful Journey

Feeling adventurous? Try a squirrel curry! It's a delicious and exotic dish that's sure to impress. The combination of spices and flavours in a curry really brings out the best in squirrel meat.

Ingredients:

1. 1 pound of squirrel meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
2. 1 tablespoon olive oil
3. 1 large onion, chopped
4. 2 cloves of garlic, minced
5. 1-inch piece of ginger, grated
6. 1 teaspoon ground cumin
7. 1 teaspoon ground coriander
8. 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
9. 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
10. 1 (14-ounce) can of diced tomatoes, undrained
11. 1 cup of chicken broth
12. 1/2 cup of heavy cream
13. Salt and pepper to taste
14. Garnish: chopped cilantro

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the squirrel meat and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meat from the pot and set aside.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the cumin, coriander, turmeric, and cayenne pepper to the pot and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and the squirrel meat back to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the squirrel is tender.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and cook for 5 minutes more. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro.

Part 3: Tips and Tricks: Mastering Squirrel Cooking

Tenderizing the Meat: A Key to Success

Squirrel meat can be a bit tough if you're not careful, so tenderizing it is key to unlocking its full potential. Here are a few tips to help you create a delicious and tender meal:

1. Marinate It: As we mentioned before, marinating the squirrel meat is a game-changer. A good marinade will help to tenderize the meat and add a burst of flavour. Let the meat soak in a mixture of soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and a little bit of sugar for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cook It Slowly: Slow-cooking is another great way to ensure tender and juicy squirrel meat. Consider using a slow cooker, pressure cooker, or braising the meat in the oven. The gentle heat allows the connective tissues to break down, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
3. Add Some Fat: Squirrel meat is lean, so adding a bit of fat during cooking can help to keep it moist and prevent it from drying out. Use olive oil, butter, or bacon grease.

Handling the Bones: A Little Extra Care

When cooking whole squirrels, those pesky bones can be a bit of a challenge. Here's how to make your life easier:

1. Cook It Whole: If you're feeling adventurous and want to cook a whole squirrel, you can roast it in the oven or cook it over a campfire. Just remember to remove the bones before serving.
2. Cut It Up: If you prefer to cut the squirrel into pieces before cooking, make sure to remove the bones first. You can use a sharp knife or a bone saw.

Part 4: Squirrel as a Sustainable Choice

In today's world, we're all becoming more aware of sustainable food choices, and squirrel often gets overlooked in this conversation. But it's actually a fantastic option! Here's why:

1. Abundant Population: Squirrels are plentiful in many parts of the world, making them a sustainable food source. They are a naturally abundant species, and responsible hunting practices help to maintain their population levels.
2. Low Environmental Impact: Squirrel hunting is generally a low-impact practice, requiring less energy and resources than other forms of meat production. It's a much more environmentally friendly option compared to traditional livestock farming.
3. Nutrient-Rich: Squirrel meat is a good source of protein, iron, and other essential nutrients. It's a healthy and delicious way to add variety to your diet.

Squirrel Hunting Ethics: A Responsible Approach

If you're planning on hunting squirrels for food, it's absolutely essential to do so responsibly and ethically. Think of it as a partnership with nature. Here are some important things to keep in mind:

1. Respect the Animal: Always treat squirrels with respect, both during the hunt and after they've been harvested. Remember that squirrels are living creatures, and we should treat them with the same respect we would any other animal.
2. Hunt Only When Needed: Don't overhunt squirrels. Make sure there's a sustainable population in your area. Always follow local regulations and hunting guidelines to ensure that squirrel populations remain healthy.
3. Minimize Waste: Use all parts of the squirrel, including the skin, bones, and organs. This is a great way to reduce waste and make the most of your harvest.

Part 5: Squirrel beyond the Plate: A Taste of History

Squirrel meat has been a staple food for many cultures around the world for centuries. It has a rich history, woven into folklore and traditions.

Squirrel in North American History: A Food for Survival

In North America, squirrel meat has been a vital food source for Indigenous peoples for thousands of years. It was used in a variety of traditional dishes and played a significant role in their survival.

Squirrel in European History: A Meal for the People

In Europe, squirrel was once considered a common food for peasants and the working class. It was a readily available source of protein, especially in areas where other meat was scarce.

Part 6: Squirrel in Modern Cuisine: A Rising Star

Squirrel meat is experiencing a resurgence in modern cuisine, with chefs and home cooks alike rediscovering its unique flavour and versatility.

Squirrel in Restaurants: A Culinary Trend

A few forward-thinking restaurants are starting to feature squirrel on their menus, offering unique and inventive dishes that showcase the meat's potential.

Squirrel in Home Kitchens: A New Frontier

More and more home cooks are trying squirrel recipes, exploring the range of flavours and textures that the meat offers. With a little creativity, squirrel can be used in a variety of dishes, from stews and curries to sausages and burgers.

Part 7: Squirrel: More Than Just a Meal

Squirrel isn't just about the food; it's also about the experience. It's a chance to connect with nature, to learn about your local wildlife, and to enjoy the thrill of the hunt.

Squirrel Hunting: A Connection to Nature

Squirrel hunting is a great way to spend time in nature and to appreciate the beauty of the natural world. It's a chance to learn about the habits and behaviors of squirrels and to develop your skills as a hunter.

Squirrel Cooking: A Culinary Adventure

Squirrel cooking is a journey of discovery. It's a chance to experiment with different flavours, textures, and cooking methods, and to find new ways to enjoy this unique meat.

Part 8: FAQs: Your Squirrel Questions Answered

What does squirrel meat taste like?

Squirrel meat has a mild, gamey flavour that's similar to rabbit or chicken. It's not as strong as venison or wild boar, and it can be quite tender and juicy when cooked properly.

Is squirrel meat safe to eat?

Squirrel meat is safe to eat, provided it's properly handled and cooked. Be sure to cook it to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) to kill any harmful bacteria.

How can I tell if a squirrel is safe to eat?

Avoid eating squirrels that look sick or injured, as they may carry diseases. Also, be sure to inspect the meat for any signs of spoilage, such as discoloration, an off-odor, or slime.

What are some other ways to cook squirrel?

Besides the recipes mentioned earlier, squirrel can be cooked in many ways. You can roast it, grill it, fry it, or even make sausage with it. There's no shortage of possibilities when it comes to squirrel cuisine.

Where can I learn more about squirrel hunting?

Your local wildlife agency or game warden is a great resource for information on squirrel hunting regulations, licenses, and best practices. You can also find many books and websites that offer tips and techniques for squirrel hunting.