Southern Fried Squirrel
Southern Fried Squirrel offers tender, flavorful meat coated in seasoned flour and fried to crispy perfection, ideal for hearty comfort food lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil squirrel until tender.
- Remove from water and pat dry.
- Season the squirrel meat with ground pepper, parsley flakes, and seasoned salt.
- Coat the seasoned squirrel meat with flour.
- Heat cooking oil in a skillet.
- Place the coated squirrel into hot oil and cook until brown and crispy.
- Optional: make brown gravy to serve with the fried squirrel.
Tips & Substitutions
For a crispier texture, let the coated squirrel rest for 10-15 minutes before frying, allowing the flour to adhere better. If you don't have seasoned salt, a mix of salt and garlic powder works well. You can substitute squirrel with chicken if desired, but adjust cooking times accordingly. For added flavor, consider marinating the meat in David Rossi'S Marinade before frying.
Serving Suggestions
Southern fried squirrel pairs beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes or Veronica'S Green Beans Spanish Style for a hearty meal. Consider serving it with a side of Zippy Fruit Salad for a refreshing contrast. A homemade brown gravy can also elevate the dish, drizzled over the squirrel for added richness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover fried squirrel in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the squirrel in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, which helps maintain its crispiness. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the meat soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Fried Squirrel contains roughly 546 calories, with 36g protein, 110g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (154% of the Daily Value), iron (115% of the Daily Value), and protein (73% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1850mg per serving (80% 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 meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen squirrel meat. Just ensure it is fully thawed before boiling to ensure even cooking. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for the best results, or use the defrost setting on your microwave if you're short on time.
What should I serve with fried squirrel?
Fried squirrel is traditionally served with comforting sides like coleslaw or cornbread. You can also try pairing it with a fresh salad or some southern-style biscuits. For a lighter option, serving it alongside a refreshing dish like Zippy Fruit Salad can balance the richness.
How do I know when the squirrel is fully cooked?
The squirrel is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is golden brown on the outside. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness, and ensure the juices run clear when pierced. If you have any doubts, cut into the thickest part to check for no pink meat.
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).