Squirrel Recipe: A Complete Guide to Cooking This Game Meat

You’ve bagged yourself a squirrel, eh? Maybe you're a seasoned hunter, or maybe you're just feeling adventurous and fancy a change from the usual supermarket fare. Whatever your reason, you've got a furry little friend in the freezer, and you're wondering what to do with it. Well, worry no more! I'm here to guide you through the wonderful world of squirrel cuisine, from the initial prep to the final bite.

I’ve been cooking with squirrel for years. My granddad, a proper old-school chap, used to teach me all sorts of tricks in the kitchen. He told me stories about how his dad used to eat squirrel all the time during the war, when food was scarce. It's a bit of a forgotten tradition nowadays, but I'm here to bring it back.

This isn't just a recipe guide, though. It's a whole journey, a celebration of this delicious and under-appreciated game meat. We'll delve into the ethics of squirrel hunting, explore different preparation methods, and even tackle the occasional squirrel-related myth or two. So grab a cuppa, settle in, and get ready for a wild ride!

(Part 1) The Ethical Squirrel

The Ethical Side of Squirrel Hunting

Before we get our hands dirty in the kitchen, let's address the elephant in the room, or rather, the squirrel in the tree. Is it ethical to hunt squirrels? Now, I'm not going to lecture you on animal rights or anything. I'm a firm believer in sustainable living, and I believe that hunting can be a responsible way to source your food.

But let's be honest, squirrels are cute. They're little bundles of fluff, and it's easy to feel a bit bad about bringing one down. However, it's important to remember that squirrels are a natural part of the ecosystem, and their population is generally healthy. In fact, in many areas, they're considered a pest, and culling them can actually be beneficial to the environment.

For example, squirrels can cause damage to trees and crops. They can also compete with other animals for food and shelter. In some cases, hunting squirrels can help to control their population and prevent them from becoming a nuisance.

So, if you're a responsible hunter who adheres to local regulations and only takes what you need, then I believe hunting squirrels can be a perfectly ethical practice.

Squirrel Hunting for Beginners: A Quick Guide

If you're thinking of giving squirrel hunting a go, here are a few things you should know:

1. Check the law: Make sure you're allowed to hunt squirrels in your area. Different regions have different regulations, and some areas may have specific seasons for squirrel hunting.
2. Get your license: You'll need a hunting license and possibly a permit depending on your location. These licenses are usually available through your local wildlife agency.
3. Choose the right weapon: A .22 caliber rifle is a good choice for squirrels, as it provides a clean kill and minimizes damage to the meat. You can also use a shotgun with small shot, or even a bow and arrow for a more challenging and traditional approach.
4. Learn about squirrels: Understand their habits, their behavior, and where they are most likely to be found. Squirrels are active during the day, and they are often found in wooded areas, parks, and even backyards. They are also known to be quite territorial, so it's important to be mindful of their presence and to respect their space.
5. Be ethical and safe: Only take what you need, and always be mindful of your surroundings.

(Part 2) Bringing the Squirrel Home: Prepping for the Feast

From Furry Friend to Fine Fare

So you've got your squirrel, and it's time to turn it into a delicious meal. The first step is to skin it and prepare it for cooking. I know this might sound daunting, but trust me, it's not as difficult as it seems.

First, you'll need a good, sharp knife. You can also use a skinning knife if you have one, but a regular kitchen knife will do the trick. Next, you need to remove the fur. This can be done in a couple of ways. Some folks prefer to skin it over a log or a bucket, but I find it easier to skin it on a flat surface.

To start, you'll need to make a small incision near the tail, then work your way up the squirrel’s back, carefully peeling the skin away from the meat. Be careful not to tear the meat, as this can affect the final product. Once the skin is peeled back, you can cut off the head and paws.

Skinning the Squirrel: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Lay the squirrel flat: Place the squirrel on a clean surface, with its belly facing up.
2. Make an incision: Starting at the base of the tail, cut a small incision through the skin.
3. Work your way up: Carefully peel the skin back from the tail towards the head. You'll need to use your fingers to help you peel the skin, but be careful not to tear the meat.
4. Remove the head and paws: Once you've peeled the skin back, you can cut off the head and the paws.
5. Clean the carcass: Now you have a clean, skinned squirrel ready for cooking!

Don't forget to remove the entrails and wash the carcass thoroughly with cold water. Then, you can either cook it whole or cut it into pieces for different dishes.

(Part 3) Squirrel Cooking 101: Mastering the Basics

Now, let's talk about the actual cooking. There are a few basic techniques that you can use to cook squirrel, and they're surprisingly versatile.

Squirrel Recipes: A World of Flavours

The best thing about squirrel is that it's incredibly adaptable. It takes on the flavors of whatever you cook it with, so you can get really creative. You can roast it, fry it, stew it, or even grill it.

I've tried all sorts of recipes over the years, from simple fried squirrel with onions to more elaborate dishes like squirrel pot pie. One of my favorites is squirrel with wild mushrooms and rosemary. The combination of earthy flavors is just divine!

The Importance of cooking time

Squirrel meat is quite lean, so it's important not to overcook it. Overcooked squirrel can become dry and tough. The cooking time will depend on the size of the squirrel and the method you're using, but a general rule of thumb is to cook it until it's no longer pink in the center.

If you're unsure about whether it's cooked through, you can use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should be at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) for safe consumption.

(Part 4) Squirrel Recipes: A culinary adventure Awaits

Now, let's dive into the good stuff: the recipes. Here are a few of my personal favorites, tailored for both the novice and the experienced squirrel cook.

Squirrel Recipes for the Beginner

Squirrel Fried with Onions

This is a classic, simple recipe that's perfect for beginners. You'll need a few ingredients and about 30 minutes of your time.

1. Cut the squirrel into small pieces: This helps the meat cook evenly and ensures a tender texture.
2. Season the squirrel with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices: Salt and pepper are essential, but you can get creative with your spices. Paprika, garlic powder, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper can add extra flavor.
3. Heat some oil in a frying pan over medium heat: You can use any type of oil you like, but I prefer olive oil for its flavor.
4. Add the squirrel to the pan and cook until browned on all sides: This will create a delicious crust on the outside of the meat.
5. Add chopped onions to the pan and cook until softened: Onions add a touch of sweetness and a wonderful aroma to the dish.
6. Serve the squirrel and onions with your favorite sides: mashed potatoes, green beans, or a simple salad would all be great accompaniments.

Squirrel Stew

A hearty and comforting dish that's perfect for a cold evening. This one takes a bit longer to cook, but it's well worth the effort.

1. Cut the squirrel into small pieces: Again, this helps the meat cook evenly and ensures a tender texture.
2. Brown the squirrel in a large pot with some oil: This will give the stew a rich base flavor.
3. Add chopped vegetables, such as onions, carrots, celery, and potatoes, to the pot: These vegetables will add sweetness, depth, and color to the stew.
4. Pour in some broth or water, and add your favorite seasonings: beef broth works well, but you can also use chicken broth or even water. Add herbs and spices like thyme, bay leaves, or a pinch of rosemary for extra flavor.
5. Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for a couple of hours, until the squirrel is tender: slow cooking allows the flavors to meld and the meat to become incredibly tender.
6. Serve the stew hot with a crusty bread roll: The bread roll will soak up the flavorful stew and make for a truly satisfying meal.

Squirrel Recipes for the Advanced Chef

Squirrel Pot Pie

A delicious and impressive dish that's perfect for a special occasion. You'll need a bit more time and effort for this one, but the results are truly amazing.

1. Cut the squirrel into small pieces and brown it in a large pot: This will give the pot pie a rich base flavor.
2. Add chopped vegetables, such as onions, carrots, celery, mushrooms, and peas, to the pot: These vegetables will add sweetness, depth, and color to the pot pie.
3. Pour in some broth or water, and add your favorite seasonings: Chicken or beef broth works well, and you can add herbs and spices like thyme, bay leaves, or a pinch of rosemary for extra flavor.
4. Simmer the stew for an hour, until the squirrel is tender: Slow cooking allows the flavors to meld and the meat to become incredibly tender.
5. Pour the stew into a baking dish: Use a deep baking dish that can accommodate the filling and the pie crust.
6. Cover the stew with a homemade or store-bought pie crust: A classic flaky pie crust is perfect for this dish.
7. Bake the pot pie in the oven until the crust is golden brown and the filling is bubbly: The baking time will vary depending on your oven and the size of the pot pie, but it usually takes about 30-40 minutes.
8. Serve hot: A delicious and comforting meal that's perfect for a cold evening.

Squirrel with Wild Mushrooms and Rosemary

A gourmet dish that showcases the best of squirrel's earthy flavor. This one is a bit more complex, but it's worth the effort.

1. Cut the squirrel into small pieces and season with salt, pepper, and rosemary: Rosemary pairs beautifully with the earthy flavor of squirrel and wild mushrooms.
2. Heat some oil in a frying pan over medium heat: You can use any type of oil you like, but I prefer olive oil for its flavor.
3. Add the squirrel to the pan and cook until browned on all sides: This will create a delicious crust on the outside of the meat.
4. Add chopped wild mushrooms to the pan and cook until softened: Wild mushrooms add an earthy and complex flavor to the dish.
5. Deglaze the pan with some white wine or broth: This will create a delicious sauce that will enhance the flavor of the dish.
6. Simmer the sauce for a few minutes, until thickened: This will create a rich and flavorful sauce.
7. Serve the squirrel and mushrooms over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes: This will provide a hearty and comforting base for the dish.

(Part 5) Sides and Sauces: The Finishing Touches

The main dish is just half the story. Let's talk about the supporting cast - the sides and sauces that bring out the best in squirrel.

Sides for Squirrel: A Delicious Duet

When it comes to sides, I think about what compliments the meat's flavor. Here are a few of my favorite pairings:

1. Mashed potatoes: A classic comfort food pairing that absorbs the rich flavors of the sauce.
2. wild rice: A nutty and earthy side that complements the gamey taste of squirrel.
3. Roasted vegetables: A healthy and flavorful option that adds color and texture to the plate.
4. Green beans: A simple and refreshing side that balances the richness of the meat.
5. Cornbread: A Southern staple that pairs perfectly with fried squirrel.

Sauces for Squirrel: A Symphony of Flavor

I love using sauces to add depth and complexity to my squirrel dishes. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Mushroom gravy: A rich and flavorful sauce that's perfect for roasted or braised squirrel. You can make a simple mushroom gravy by sautéing mushrooms in butter, then adding flour and broth.
2. Red wine sauce: A sophisticated and elegant sauce that elevates the dish.
3. Creamy herb sauce: A light and flavorful sauce that's perfect for grilled or pan-fried squirrel. You can make a creamy herb sauce by combining cream, butter, and herbs like parsley, tarragon, and chives.
4. Cranberry sauce: A sweet and tart sauce that cuts through the richness of the meat.

(Part 6) A Bite of History: The Legacy of Squirrel Cuisine

Squirrel isn't just a recent culinary trend. It's a dish that's been enjoyed for generations. Throughout history, squirrel meat has been a staple food source for many cultures.

Squirrel in American History

In America, squirrel has been a source of sustenance for Native Americans and early settlers for centuries. It was a common meal during the frontier days and was often used in dishes like squirrel stew, squirrel pie, and squirrel dumplings.

During the Great Depression, squirrel became a vital food source for many families who were struggling to make ends meet. Squirrel was often hunted as a way to supplement their diet and help them survive difficult times.

Squirrel in British History

In Britain, squirrel meat has been eaten for centuries, especially during times of scarcity. It was often considered a delicacy and was served at grand feasts and banquets.

Today, squirrel is often seen as a forgotten food, but it's slowly making a comeback as people look for more sustainable and ethical sources of food.

(Part 7) Squirrel Myths and Misconceptions: Separating Fact from Fiction

Squirrel is often shrouded in mystery, and there are many myths and misconceptions surrounding it. Let's tackle a few of the most common ones.

Myth 1: Squirrel Meat is Gamey

This is a common misconception. Squirrel meat is actually quite mild in flavor. It doesn't have that strong, "gamey" taste that you might associate with other wild game meats like venison or rabbit. The flavor of squirrel is often described as being similar to chicken or rabbit, but with a slightly more earthy and nutty note.

Myth 2: Squirrel Meat is Tough

Another misconception. Squirrel meat is actually quite tender, especially if it's cooked properly. Overcooking is the biggest culprit when it comes to tough squirrel. If you cook squirrel for too long, it can become dry and tough. The key is to cook it until it's just cooked through, but not overcooked.

Myth 3: Squirrel is Only for Hunters

This is simply not true. You can easily find squirrel meat from reputable suppliers, whether it's online or at local farmers' markets. Many farmers and hunters are now selling squirrel meat as a way to provide a sustainable and ethical source of protein.

Myth 4: Squirrel is Dangerous to Eat

There's no evidence to support this. Squirrel meat is perfectly safe to eat, as long as it's cooked properly and sourced from a reputable source. Just like with any other type of meat, it's important to cook squirrel thoroughly to kill any harmful bacteria.

(Part 8) FAQs: Common Questions about Squirrel

Q: Is squirrel meat good for you?

Squirrel meat is a lean source of protein and is low in fat and cholesterol. It's also a good source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Eating squirrel meat can be a healthy and sustainable way to add variety to your diet.

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

The best way to ensure a squirrel is safe to eat is to hunt it yourself or buy it from a reputable source. If you're not sure, it's best to avoid eating it. Reputable suppliers will usually have a good track record and will be able to provide information about the squirrels they are selling.

Q: How do I store squirrel meat?

Squirrel meat should be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. It's best to wrap the meat tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before storing it in the refrigerator or freezer.

Q: How can I make squirrel meat less "gamey"?

Squirrel meat is actually quite mild in flavor. If you find it a bit "gamey," you can try marinating it before cooking or adding flavorful ingredients like herbs, spices, or wine to your recipe. Marination can help to tenderize the meat and add extra flavor.

Q: What are some good resources for learning more about squirrel cooking?

There are many great resources available online and in libraries. You can find squirrel recipes, cooking tips, and information about hunting and preparing squirrels. You can also find information about squirrel cooking in books and magazines.

Well, there you have it! My guide to cooking squirrel. Hopefully, this has given you a better understanding of this tasty and versatile game meat. Don't be afraid to experiment with different recipes and find what works best for you. Remember, cooking with squirrel is about more than just a recipe; it's about embracing a new culinary adventure, respecting our natural resources, and rediscovering a forgotten tradition. So, next time you're looking for a unique and flavorful meal, consider bringing a little bit of the wild into your kitchen. You might just surprise yourself!