Hunter'S Squirrel Gumbo
A hearty and savory squirrel gumbo featuring tender meat, okra, and rich flavors, perfect for those seeking a rustic, Southern-inspired dish full of character.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Clean and wash the squirrels thoroughly.
- Cut the squirrels into serving pieces and dredge well with a mixture of flour, salt, and black pepper.
- Brown the squirrels well in a heavy skillet with 6 tablespoons of cooking oil.
- Remove the squirrels from the skillet.
- Add 3 tablespoons of flour to the skillet to make a roux.
- Add 3 cups of water to the skillet and stir well to create a thin broth.
- Add chopped onions, chopped okra, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Place the squirrels back into the skillet and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to very low, cover, and simmer until the meat falls off the bone.
- Optional: Add file powder before serving.
- Serve the gumbo over hot rice.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the squirrel pieces in a mixture of spices overnight before cooking. You can substitute the squirrels with rabbit or chicken if desired. Ensure the oil is hot enough before browning the meat to achieve a good sear. If you prefer a thicker gumbo, let the roux cook a bit longer before adding water, and adjust the flour accordingly.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the gumbo over steamed white rice for a classic presentation. It pairs beautifully with Phyl'S Onion Rings for a crispy contrast. Consider a side salad or cornbread to complement the dish. For a kick, add hot sauce at the table for those who enjoy a spicier flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover gumbo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain consistency. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hunter'S Squirrel Gumbo contains roughly 444 calories, with 9g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (51% of the Daily Value), iron (35% of the Daily Value), and calcium (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 576mg per serving (25% 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 frozen squirrel for this recipe?
Yes, frozen squirrel can be used, but ensure it is fully thawed and patted dry before cooking. This will help achieve a good sear when browning. Adjust cooking times if necessary, as frozen meat may take longer to cook through.
What can I substitute for okra in this gumbo?
If you can't find okra, you can replace it with diced green bell peppers or sliced zucchini for similar texture. Alternatively, you could skip it altogether, but keep in mind that it adds a unique flavor and thickness to the gumbo.
How do I know when the squirrel is done cooking?
The squirrel is done when the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone. This typically takes about 2-3 hours of simmering on low heat. Use a meat thermometer to ensure an internal temperature of at least 165°F for safety.
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).