Bear Dijonnaise

Prep: 30 min Cook: 180 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: American

A hearty and savory bear meat dish featuring Dijon mustard, honey, and red wine, perfect for adventurous eaters and game meat enthusiasts seeking rich, robust flavors.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 4 1/2 to 5 lb. lean bear meat
  • 4 Tbsp. flour
  • 2 Tbsp. Parmesan cheese, grated
  • black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 to 1/2 lb. lean salt pork
  • 2 whole shallots
  • 2 garlic cloves, unpeeled
  • 1 Tbsp. whole black peppercorns, crushed
  • 9 oz. Dijon mustard
  • 8 oz. honey
  • 3 1/2 cups dry red wine

Instructions

  1. Trim all fat off the bear meat and clean out the musk gland to avoid a gamy taste.
  2. Cut the meat into 3-inch cubes.
  3. Season the flour with grated Parmesan cheese and black pepper.
  4. Mix the flour mixture well.
  5. Roll the meat cubes into the seasoned flour, ensuring they are well coated.
  6. Set aside the coated meat for cooking.

Tips & Substitutions

For best results, marinate the bear meat overnight in a mixture of the Dijon mustard, honey, and red wine to enhance flavor and tenderness. If bear meat isn't available, substitute with lean cuts of venison or beef for a similar taste. When cooking, consider using a heavy-bottomed pot to ensure even heat distribution. Always taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Bear Dijonnaise over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes or alongside roasted vegetables for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Oven Stuffed Potatoes or a fresh Quick And Delicious Salad to balance the richness of the dish. A robust red wine complements the flavors perfectly.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or wine to maintain moisture. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as this can dry out the meat.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Bear Dijonnaise contains roughly 1073 calories, with 30g protein, 212g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (94% of the Daily Value), iron (86% of the Daily Value), and protein (60% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 717mg per serving (31% of the Daily Value).

1073 kcal 54% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 30.2g 60% DV
Total Fat 22.6g 29% DV
Carbs 212.4g 77% DV
Fiber 26.3g 94% DV
Sugar 130.4g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 716.5mg 31% DV
Potassium 1852.9mg 39% DV
Cholesterol 42.3mg 14% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 227.3mcg 25% DV
Vitamin C 23.4mg 26% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg 1% DV
Calcium 500.3mg 38% DV
Iron 15.4mg 86% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Low-fat
Contains Milk Wheat/Gluten

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 another type of meat instead of bear?

Yes, you can substitute bear meat with lean cuts of venison, beef, or pork. Each will alter the flavor slightly, but the recipe's essence will remain intact. Just ensure the meat is trimmed of excess fat to avoid a greasy dish.

What should I serve with Bear Dijonnaise?

Bear Dijonnaise pairs well with sides like roasted vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes. Additionally, try serving it with a refreshing salad or crusty bread to soak up the sauce. For a complete meal, consider adding a cheese dish like Baked Ham And Cheese Sandwiches.

How do I know when the bear meat is cooked properly?

Bear meat should be cooked to an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C) for safety. Use a meat thermometer to check. The meat should be tender and easily pull apart with a fork. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to retain juices.

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).

American recipes → Pork recipes → Dairy recipes → All recipes →