Creamed Squirrel
Creamed Squirrel is a hearty, savory dish featuring tender squirrel meat in a creamy wine sauce, perfect for game lovers and those seeking rich, rustic flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Roll squirrel pieces in seasoned flour.
- Heat oil in a frying pan and brown the squirrel pieces.
- Remove squirrel from the pan and set aside.
- Add chopped onion and mushrooms to the pan and fry for 5 minutes.
- Return squirrel to the pan, add white wine, thyme, and parsley.
- Mix well, cover, and simmer for 1 to 1½ hours.
- Remove squirrel from the pan and let it cool.
- Add enough water to the pan to make 1 cup of liquid.
- Add light cream to the liquid in the pan.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and thicken with flour.
- Return meat to the sauce and simmer briefly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the squirrel in the wine with thyme and parsley overnight. If you can't find squirrels, rabbit can be a suitable substitute. Adjust the thickness of the sauce by varying the amount of flour. To enhance the dish further, serve it with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley before serving, which complements the flavors beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the creamed squirrel over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes or with buttered egg noodles to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of sautéed green beans or a fresh garden salad pairs well, adding a crisp contrast to the dish. For a delightful finish, consider serving with dessert options like Relatively Healthy Blueberry Cheesecake.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm the creamed squirrel on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to maintain the sauce's consistency. Avoid using a microwave, as it can make the meat tough.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamed Squirrel contains roughly 932 calories, with 10g protein, 43g carbohydrates, and 84g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (114% of the Daily Value), iron (78% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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
What can I use if I cannot find squirrels?
If squirrels are unavailable, rabbit is an excellent alternative, offering a similar texture and flavor profile. Make sure to adjust cooking times as rabbit may cook faster than squirrel, so keep an eye on it to prevent overcooking.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the creamed squirrel in advance. Cook the dish, allow it to cool, then store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat gently and add the cream just before serving to maintain its richness.
What type of wine should I use?
A dry white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, works best for this recipe. These wines enhance the flavors without overpowering the dish. Avoid sweet wines, as they can alter the intended taste of the sauce.
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).