Barbecued Squirrel
Barbecued squirrel offers a smoky, savory flavor with tender meat coated in a flavorful barbecue sauce, perfect for outdoor gatherings or hearty family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rub pieces of squirrel with salt and pepper.
- Roll the squirrel pieces in flour and pan-fry to form a crust.
- Remove the squirrel pieces from the skillet and place them in a casserole dish.
- Add chopped onion to the casserole to taste.
- Pour barbecue sauce over the squirrel and onions.
- Cover the casserole and cook in an oven at 350°F for 45 minutes or until tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a better crust, let the floured squirrel pieces rest for about 10 minutes before frying. You can substitute the squirrel with chicken if needed, though cooking times may vary. Experimenting with different barbecue sauces, like Joe'S Pork Barbecue Sauce, can add unique flavors. Consider marinating the squirrel in the sauce for an hour before cooking for deeper flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the barbecued squirrel with sides like Thelma'S Bean Salad or Barbeque Potatoes for a complete meal. A crisp green salad can also complement the richness of the dish. For a fun twist, serve it with Aunt Montez'S Cracker Thing as a crunchy side or appetizer.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the squirrel in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to prevent drying out. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F before serving again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecued Squirrel contains roughly 11 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 497mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other meats instead of squirrel?
Yes, you can substitute squirrel with chicken, rabbit, or even pork. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different meats will have varying tenderness levels and may require more or less cooking time.
What is the best way to ensure the squirrel is tender?
Cooking the squirrel low and slow is key to tenderness. Using the oven at 350°F for 45 minutes, as mentioned in the recipe, helps break down the meat fibers. You can also marinate it in barbecue sauce beforehand to enhance moisture and flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, consider mixing in some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to the barbecue sauce before pouring it over the squirrel. You can also serve it with a spicy dipping sauce on the side to cater to varying spice preferences.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).