Squirrel Country Style
Squirrel Country Style offers tender, flavorful game meat with a crispy dredge and hearty gravy, perfect for rustic comfort food enthusiasts and those seeking a unique protein experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the squirrels into serving pieces and shake them in a paper bag containing seasoned flour to dredge well.
- Fry the squirrel pieces in a skillet until golden brown.
- Remove the squirrel from the skillet and pour off all grease, leaving about 2 teaspoons in the pan.
- Add 2 cups of water to the skillet and bring to a boil.
- Return the squirrel to the skillet, turn the heat to low, cover, and cook for about 1 hour, until the meat almost falls off the bone.
- Turn the squirrel pieces occasionally and baste often during cooking.
- Serve hot with grits, biscuits, and honey.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh squirrels and be sure to season your flour with salt and pepper for enhanced flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, you can substitute the fat with vegetable oil. Additionally, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary to the cooking liquid for extra depth. If you want a crispy texture, you can briefly broil the cooked pieces before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the squirrel pieces hot alongside grits or fluffy biscuits for a hearty meal. Drizzle honey over the top for a sweet contrast, and consider pairing with a side of Crisp Bread And Butter Pickle Slices for a refreshing crunch. This dish also complements a light salad to balance the richness.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover squirrel can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the squirrel pieces in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. Cover the skillet to steam the meat gently until heated through, avoiding dryness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Squirrel Country Style contains roughly 462 calories, with 13g protein, 94g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value), iron (32% of the Daily Value), and protein (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1753mg per serving (76% 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 a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute the squirrel with chicken or rabbit if desired. Cooking times may vary, so adjust accordingly. Chicken thighs work well as they remain moist and flavorful when cooked slowly.
How do I know when the squirrel is fully cooked?
The squirrel is done when the meat is tender and easily falls off the bone, typically after about an hour of simmering. Using a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach at least 165°F (74°C) for safety.
What can I do with leftover squirrel meat?
Leftover squirrel meat can be shredded and used in various dishes, such as sandwiches or salads. You can also incorporate it into soups or stews for added flavor. Another option is to mix it with barbecue sauce for a delicious twist.
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).