Roast Opossum
A traditional Southern dish featuring tender roasted opossum infused with smoky bacon and aromatic sassafras, perfect for hearty, rustic gatherings or outdoor feasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rub the opossum meat with salt and pepper inside and out.
- Stick lots of sassafras twigs into the outside of the meat.
- Place the prepared opossum in a roasting pan.
- Roast, uncovered, at 300°F for approximately half an hour per pound of meat, until cooked through.
- During roasting, add diced onion, apple, and celery around the meat if desired for additional flavor.
- Cook bacon strips until crisp, then crumble and mix with seasoned bread cubes and beaten egg to prepare stuffing.
- Add stuffing to the roasting pan during the last part of cooking to absorb flavors.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful opossum, consider marinating the meat overnight in a mixture of apple cider vinegar and herbs. If you can't find sassafras twigs, use rosemary or thyme for a different aromatic profile. You can substitute the seasoned bread cubes with cornbread for a Southern twist. Adjust the salt and pepper to taste, especially if you prefer a milder flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the roast opossum with a side of roasted root vegetables or collard greens for a hearty meal. A light salad can balance the richness of the dish. For a unique pairing, consider offering a slice of cornbread on the side, which complements the flavors beautifully. This dish pairs well with a fruity apple chutney.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover opossum can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a 350°F oven until warmed through, adding a splash of broth to keep the meat moist. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions, ensuring they are heated evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Roast Opossum contains roughly 82 calories, with 2g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (38% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2021mg per serving (88% 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 opossum is fully cooked?
The opossum is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the thickest part of the thigh. The juices should run clear, and the meat should be tender. If it's still pink, continue roasting and check periodically.
Can I cook opossum in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook opossum in a slow cooker. Season and prepare the meat as directed, then place it in the slow cooker with diced vegetables and some broth. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the meat is tender. This method allows for rich flavor development and easy shredding.
What should I do if the opossum is too fatty?
If the opossum is too fatty, trim excess fat before cooking. You can also balance the richness by serving it with acidic sides like pickled vegetables or a tangy salad dressing. Additionally, cooking it with plenty of vegetables can help absorb some of the fat during roasting.
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).