Oven Baked Possum
Oven baked possum offers a hearty, flavorful dish with tender meat, seasoned with vinegar, brown sugar, and aromatic onions, perfect for adventurous eaters and rustic cuisine lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Skin the possum.
- Rub salt and pepper all over the possum's body.
- Run a mixture of vinegar and brown sugar over the body.
- Place the possum in the refrigerator overnight.
- Next morning, put the pan and possum on top of the stove.
- Add 4 teaspoons of bacon fat and sear the possum on all sides.
- Add chopped onions to the possum.
- Put the pan in the oven and bake for 1 hour at 350°F.
- Take the possum out of the oven, turn him over, and add sweet potatoes.
- Put him back in the oven and cook for another 2 hours or until tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, let the possum marinate in the vinegar and brown sugar mixture for at least 12 hours. If possum is unavailable, you might substitute with a similar game meat like rabbit. When searing, ensure the pan is hot enough to achieve a nice golden crust, which enhances the overall flavor. Consider cooking a side of Hoppin John 'N' Sausages to complement the meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the oven-baked possum with a side of roasted sweet potatoes for a hearty meal. You can also serve with a refreshing Salad Elegance to balance the richness. Pair it with a light Strawberry Sparkler to cleanse the palate and add a touch of sweetness to the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the possum in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to prevent drying out. Heat at 300°F until warmed through, or use a microwave, but be cautious as it can become tough if overheated.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Oven Baked Possum contains roughly 18 calories, with 1g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1803mg per serving (78% 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 prepare the possum ahead of time?
Yes, you can skin and marinate the possum up to 24 hours in advance. Just ensure it is stored properly in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making the meat more tender and flavorful when cooked.
What is the best way to tell if the possum is done cooking?
The possum is done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the meat is tender. You can also check by piercing the thickest part; the juices should run clear. If it resists easily when pierced, it may need more cooking time.
Can I use other vegetables instead of sweet potatoes?
Absolutely! You can substitute sweet potatoes with carrots, parsnips, or even root vegetables like turnips. These alternatives will add different flavors and textures while still complementing the richness of the possum.
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).