Glennie Nell'S Roast Christmas Possum
A hearty and unique holiday dish featuring roast possum infused with sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for adventurous eaters and festive gatherings seeking a memorable centerpiece.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Clean and prepare the possum, ensuring it is properly dressed and cleaned.
- In a large pot or roasting pan, combine vinegar, Kitchen Bouquet, persimmon jam, and season with salt and pepper.
- Place the possum into the mixture, allowing it to marinate or baste as needed.
- Lay slices of bacon over the possum to add flavor and moisture.
- Peel and cut the sweet potatoes into desired sizes.
- Arrange the sweet potatoes around the roast or in a separate baking dish.
- Roast the possum in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for approximately 3 hours, basting occasionally.
- Add the sweet potatoes to the oven during the last 45-60 minutes of cooking to roast until tender.
- Check for doneness, ensure the meat is cooked thoroughly, and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more balanced flavor, consider adding garlic and onion to the marinade. If you can't find Kitchen Bouquet, a mix of soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce can work as a substitute. Make sure to baste the possum regularly to keep the meat moist. For a unique touch, serve with German Bacon Slaw alongside the roast.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the roast possum hot, garnished with fresh herbs for a pop of color. Pair it with roasted sweet potatoes and a side of Caldo Gallego for a hearty meal. A light salad can also complement the richness of the possum, balancing the flavors beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be cooled and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the possum in a covered dish in the oven at 325°F (163°C) until warmed through, ensuring it retains moisture. For best results, reheat the sweet potatoes separately to avoid mushiness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Glennie Nell'S Roast Christmas Possum contains roughly 361 calories, with 7g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (15% of the Daily Value) and protein (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 971mg per serving (42% 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
How do I know when the possum is fully cooked?
The best way to check doneness is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 160°F (71°C). Additionally, the meat should be tender and the juices should run clear. Basting during roasting helps ensure even cooking and moisture retention.
Can I use a frozen possum for this recipe?
Yes, you can use a frozen possum, but it should be fully thawed before cooking. Thaw it in the refrigerator for 24 hours to ensure safety. Cooking from frozen is not recommended, as it may lead to uneven cooking and longer roasting times.
What can I serve as an alternative to sweet potatoes?
If sweet potatoes aren't available, consider using roasted carrots or parsnips as alternatives. Both provide a sweet flavor that complements the richness of the possum. You could also serve it with mashed potatoes or a side of German Green Beans for a different texture and taste.
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).