Southern Baked Possum With Sweet Potatoes
A hearty Southern dish featuring tender baked possum with savory bacon, sweet potatoes, and aromatic herbs, perfect for adventurous eaters and traditional southern cuisine lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Nail the head of the possum to a board slightly longer than the possum itself.
- Skin the possum.
- Make a paste of shortening, salt, and pepper, then rub it all over the entire possum.
- Fill the cavity of the possum with onions, garlic, chopped parsley, and celery leaves.
- Place the possum on a rack in a roasting pan and lay five strips of bacon across the breast.
- Add water and mushrooms to the pan, then leave it uncovered.
- Bake in a moderately hot oven (300° to 350°F) until tender, approximately 1.5 hours.
- Baste the possum every 5 minutes during baking.
- To check if it is done, pull a leg away from the body.
- When cooked, discard the possum and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a more flavorful possum, consider marinating it overnight with the garlic and parsley. If possum isn't available, you can substitute with a fatty game meat like duck or even pork. Adjust cooking times accordingly; pork may take less time. Make sure to baste frequently for a moist texture, akin to what you'd find in stuffed 'Ponce'.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the baked possum with the sweet potatoes on the side. They can be roasted or mashed for added comfort. A fresh green salad or sautéed greens would complement the rich flavors well. For a rustic touch, consider pairing with crusty bread or biscuits, perfect for soaking up the juices.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the possum in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20 minutes. This helps retain moisture and flavor. Avoid microwaving, as it may dry out the meat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Baked Possum With Sweet Potatoes contains roughly 558 calories, with 49g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (222% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (214% of the Daily Value), and vitamin D (157% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2455mg per serving (107% 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 if the possum is done is by pulling a leg away from the body. If it comes off easily, the meat is tender and fully cooked. Additionally, the internal temperature should reach at least 165°F for safe consumption.
Can I use other vegetables instead of sweet potatoes?
Yes, you can substitute sweet potatoes with root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or even regular potatoes. Each will impart a different flavor profile but will still provide a hearty side to the rich possum.
What should I do if the possum is tough after baking?
If the possum turns out tougher than expected, you may need to increase the cooking time and add more moisture to the pan. Try covering it with foil to trap steam, which helps tenderize the meat. Basting frequently will also aid in keeping it moist.
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).