Hunter'S Baked Squirrel
A hearty, rustic dish featuring tender baked squirrel infused with savory herbs and flavors, perfect for game meat enthusiasts seeking a robust, comforting meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dredge the cleaned squirrels in seasoned flour.
- Brown the floured squirrels in enough oil in a roasting pan.
- Add the can of bouillon, Worcestershire sauce, chopped parsley, onion juice, garlic, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the pan.
- Bake the mixture at 350°F for 45 minutes.
- Reduce the temperature slowly and continue baking for 45 minutes or longer until the squirrels are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider marinating the squirrels in Worcestershire sauce and garlic overnight. For a gluten-free option, substitute regular flour with a gluten-free flour blend. You can also use chicken or vegetable broth instead of bouillon for a different taste. Ensure the oil is hot enough before browning to achieve a nice crust.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Hunter's Baked Squirrel with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with a hearty bread to soak up the sauce. For a comforting touch, consider serving it alongside creamy mashed potatoes. This dish can be a unique centerpiece at a rustic dinner gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the squirrels in a baking dish with a splash of broth or water, cover with foil, and warm in a preheated oven at 325°F until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hunter'S Baked Squirrel contains roughly 123 calories, with 4g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (65% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 893mg per serving (39% 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 rabbit or chicken. Both will work similarly with the cooking method and flavors in this recipe. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken may take less time to become tender depending on the cut.
What can I do if I can't find bouillon?
If bouillon is unavailable, you can use homemade or store-bought chicken or vegetable stock as a substitute. Simply reduce the amount of liquid slightly, as stock is often less concentrated than bouillon. This will still provide a rich flavor to the dish.
Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?
Absolutely! To add heat, incorporate a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture in step 3. You can also serve it with a side of spicy pickles or a spicy condiment to enhance the heat profile of the dish.
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).