Squirrel Fricassee
A hearty and rustic squirrel fricassee featuring tender game meat simmered in savory broth with bacon and onions, perfect for traditional comfort food lovers and game enthusiasts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix flour, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Coat squirrel pieces with seasoned flour.
- In a large frypan over medium heat, fry bacon until grease begins to collect.
- Add squirrel meat and fry until well browned on all sides.
- Add chopped onion and chicken broth.
- Cover and cook over medium heat for 30 minutes.
- Reduce heat to low and continue cooking for 2 to 2.5 hours or until meat is tender.
- If desired, prepare gravy from pan drippings just before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the squirrel pieces in buttermilk overnight before coating them in seasoned flour. If you don't have squirrel, rabbit or chicken can be good substitutes, though cooking times may vary. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, and feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra depth. This dish pairs beautifully with chicken recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the squirrel fricassee over a bed of fluffy rice or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the flavorful sauce. A side of sautéed green beans or a fresh garden salad complements the dish well. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with the Chicken And Garden Vegetable Twist for a delightful feast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary to keep the meat moist. You can also reheat in the microwave, but be cautious not to overcook it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Squirrel Fricassee contains roughly 106 calories, with 8g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2033mg 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
Can I use frozen squirrel for this recipe?
Yes, frozen squirrel can be used, but ensure it is fully thawed before cooking. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight for best results. This will help the meat cook evenly and retain its moisture during the fricassee process.
What can I substitute for bacon in this recipe?
If you're looking for a substitute for bacon, pancetta or smoked turkey can provide a similar flavor profile. For a vegetarian option, you might use liquid smoke or a sprinkle of smoked paprika to add depth without meat.
How can I tell when the meat is tender enough?
The meat is tender enough when it easily pulls away from the bone and can be shredded with a fork. This typically occurs after 2 to 2.5 hours of cooking on low heat, but checking periodically can ensure it reaches the desired tenderness.
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).