Squirrel Or Rabbit Gravy
A hearty, savory gravy made from squirrel or rabbit, featuring rich flavors enhanced by bacon drippings and optional juniper berries, perfect for rustic comfort meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Inspect squirrels, making sure all buckshot has been removed.
- Put the cut-up squirrel or rabbit and 1/2 cup salt in a bowl of water (not aluminum) with the juniper berries; soak overnight in the refrigerator.
- Drain off the water, discard the berries, and rinse the squirrel or rabbit.
- Coat the squirrel or rabbit as you would to fry chicken.
- Put bacon drippings and oil in a cast-iron skillet and heat, adding a few shakes of pepper.
- Add the squirrel or rabbit; brown nicely.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using duck fat instead of bacon drippings. If you can't find juniper berries, try adding a splash of gin to mimic their flavor. Make sure to use a heavy skillet to ensure even cooking and achieve that perfect crispy texture. If you like spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the flour mixture for a kick. This dish can also be served over rice or noodles for a heartier meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the squirrel or rabbit gravy over creamy mashed potatoes or buttery biscuits for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with Southern Smothered Meat for a hearty feast. Add a side of sautéed green beans or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the gravy. For a complete experience, consider offering crusty bread for dipping into the gravy.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the gravy in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the gravy thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can cause uneven heating and affect the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Squirrel Or Rabbit Gravy contains roughly 502 calories, with 1g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 485mg per serving (21% 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 other meats for this gravy?
Yes, this gravy recipe can be adapted for other game meats like venison or even chicken. Just adjust the cooking times as needed, as different meats may require different cooking durations to become tender and flavorful.
Is it necessary to soak the meat overnight?
Soaking the meat helps to remove any residual gamey flavors and ensures it is well seasoned. While not strictly necessary, it greatly enhances the overall taste and tenderness of the dish. If short on time, try soaking for at least 2-3 hours.
What can I serve with this dish?
This gravy goes well with a variety of sides. Consider serving it over creamy polenta or with a side of roasted vegetables. For a more traditional approach, biscuits or cornbread are excellent choices. Pairing with a light salad can also help cut through the richness.
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).