Bring Out the Beast with Protein-Rich Wild Game

You need protein but who says it has to come from the same old sources? Wild game is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, and typically has less fat and more protein than the usual fare. Here are a few good sources to add to your meal rotation.

Ostrich

You may not find ostrich meat at your corner store, but it is worth a broader search. Compared with chicken in equal servings, you will get about 10 grams more protein with ostrich and more iron, too. Prepare ostrich as you would beef style kabobs. Thread onto skewers with veggies and onions, broil or grill and enjoy. You can also do a search for Chef Jaimie Oliver’s ostrich steak recipe.

Squirrel

Before you dismiss the idea, know there are about 21 grams of protein in a 3.5-ounce serving. Brown in a hot pan with olive oil and finish it off in the oven for bragging rights. You ate what?!

Bison

Bison makes a mean burger but it is quite lean so cook carefully to avoid drying it out. It is a good source of protein, zinc, iron, and B-12. Bison is pretty widely available but expensive so it likely won’t be your regular go-to source.

Alligator

High in protein but lower in fat and calories than chicken, alligator is a good alternative to that most popular white meat. It tastes somewhat like chicken and is widely available in restaurants or the freezer section of a well-stocked grocery store. The most common preparation is fried but you can save calories by enjoying it grilled.

Antelope

Want to embark on a culinary adventure? Try antelope. It is similar in taste to venison and much lower in calories than beef. Pop it in the crockpot for a tender, high protein stew.

Wild Boar

Wild Boar boasts 28 grams of protein per 3.5-ounce serving. Try the Wild Boar Ragu recipe from Epicurious. Delight your dinner guests with this highly rated dish likely to be unlike anything they have eaten before.

Get creative with your protein fix. There are a number of excellent wild game sources that are low in fat and calories but high in taste. Adding variety gives you access to a broader range of nutrients and adds sensory interest to your meals. Chicken and beef are great – but there are so many more options. Try one, better yet put it on your bucket list to try them all.