As the seasons change and hunting enthusiasts gear up for another year of exploring the great outdoors, many of us are left wondering what to do with our bounty. For those who venture into the woods, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of the hunt and the satisfaction of preparing a meal from the fruits of your labor. Squirrel, in particular, is a popular game meat that can be prepared in a multitude of ways, from classic comfort foods to innovative twists on traditional recipes.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 savory squirrel recipes for adventurous cooks who are looking to put their latest catch to good use. From Southern-fried delights to hearty stews and braises, these dishes are sure to please even the most discerning palate. So, whether you’re a seasoned hunter or just looking to try something new, keep reading to discover the rich flavors and textures that squirrel has to offer.
Southern Fried Squirrel with Gravy
This Southern-style fried squirrel dish is a twist on traditional comfort food. With a crispy exterior and tender interior, paired with a rich and tangy gravy, this recipe is sure to please even the most adventurous palates.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb squirrel meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Gravy mix (available at most supermarkets)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, mix together flour, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Pour buttermilk into a separate shallow dish.
3. Dip squirrel pieces into buttermilk, then coat in flour mixture, shaking off excess.
4. Heat about 1/2-inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry squirrel until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes per side.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain.
7. Serve hot with gravy mix, following package instructions.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total
Slow-Cooked Squirrel Stew
Experience the rich flavors of the wilderness with this hearty, slow-cooked squirrel stew. Perfect for a cozy night in or a hunting trip.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground squirrel meat
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (e.g., button, cremini, shiitake)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup red wine
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. Brown squirrel meat in a pan over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onions, garlic, mushrooms, chicken broth, red wine, tomato paste, and thyme to the slow cooker.
4. Stir in cooked squirrel meat.
5. Cook for 6-8 hours or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Squirrel and Dumplings
Warm up with a hearty bowl of Squirrel and Dumplings, a classic comfort food dish that’s sure to become a favorite. This recipe combines tender squirrel meat with fluffy, flavorful dumplings for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground squirrel
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups dumpling mix (or homemade dumpling dough)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook squirrel meat over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Gradually add to skillet, stirring constantly.
5. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Stir in chicken broth and butter. Simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes or until sauce has thickened.
7. Meanwhile, prepare dumplings according to package instructions or your own recipe.
8. Serve squirrel and dumplings hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Squirrel Kabobs
Impress your friends and family with this unique and flavorful dish that’s perfect for adventurous eaters. With its tender texture and rich flavor profile, grilled squirrel kabobs are sure to be a hit at any outdoor gathering or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound of squirrel meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and thyme. Add squirrel cubes and toss to coat.
3. Thread 4-5 pieces of squirrel onto each skewer, leaving a small gap between each piece.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill kabobs for 8-10 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Squirrel Pot Pie
Squirrel Pot Pie: A Hearty Winter Treat
This comforting pot pie is a twist on the classic recipe, featuring tender squirrel meat and a flaky crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb squirrel meat (ground or diced)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing crust)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, cook squirrel meat, onion, and garlic until browned.
3. Add mixed vegetables, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes.
4. Gradually stir in chicken broth and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer.
5. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
6. Fill pie crust with squirrel mixture and brush edges with beaten egg.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Braised Squirrel with Mushrooms
A hearty and flavorful dish perfect for a cold winter’s night. Squirrel meat is slow-cooked with aromatic mushrooms to create a rich, comforting stew.
Ingredients:
– 1 squirrel (approximately 2 lbs), cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the squirrel pieces and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the squirrel from the pot and set aside.
4. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
5. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
6. Add the red wine, chicken broth, and thyme to the pot. Stir to combine.
7. Return the squirrel pieces to the pot and bring to a simmer.
8. Reduce heat to low and braise for 1 1/2 hours or until the squirrel is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Squirrel Gumbo
This recipe celebrates the flavors of autumn with a rich and savory gumbo featuring tender squirrel meat, succulent vegetables, and warm spices. Perfect for a cozy dinner on a crisp fall evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground squirrel
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, celery, bell peppers)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add squirrel, onion, and garlic; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add mixed vegetables, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
3. Gradually add chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until squirrel is tender.
4. Stir in flour to thicken the gumbo. Serve hot over rice or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Smoked Squirrel with Herbs
Smoked Squirrel with Herbs: A Delicious Twist on Game Meat
This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked squirrel with the freshness of herbs, resulting in a savory and aromatic dish perfect for game meat enthusiasts.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb squirrel meat (legs or backstraps), cleaned and cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp onion powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh rosemary
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the squirrel meat, making sure it’s evenly coated.
4. Place the squirrel pieces in the smoker and cook for 4-5 hours, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove the squirrel from the smoker and brush with olive oil.
6. Sprinkle chopped thyme and rosemary over the meat and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours
Squirrel and Wild Rice Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the earthy taste of squirrel, all wrapped up in a comforting blanket of creamy goodness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1/2 cup browned squirrel (cooked and diced)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add the browned squirrel and cook until heated through.
4. In a separate bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, heavy cream, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish and add the squirrel mixture. Top with the wild rice mixture and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Squirrel Tacos with Spicy Slaw
Get ready to go nuts for these unique tacos! Squirrel meat (such as ground beef or turkey) is seasoned with a blend of spices and cooked with onions and bell peppers, then wrapped in crispy tortillas and topped with a tangy slaw.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb squirrel meat (or ground beef/turkey), browned
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 bell peppers, diced
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Spicy Slaw (recipe below)
Spicy Slaw:
– 1 cup shredded cabbage
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 teaspoon hot sauce (such as sriracha)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the squirrel meat, onion, and bell peppers in a skillet until browned.
2. Season with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos by spooning meat mixture onto a tortilla, then topping with Spicy Slaw.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Squirrel Jerky
Get ready to snack on a tasty and healthy treat with this simple recipe for Squirrel Jerky!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound squirrel meat (venison or ground turkey work too), cut into thin strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add squirrel meat strips to the marinade, making sure they are coated evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil.
5. Place marinated squirrel strips on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
6. Bake for 3-4 hours, or until jerky is dry and slightly chewy.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Tips:
– For added flavor, add your favorite spices to the marinade!
– To make this recipe more substantial, serve with crackers, nuts, or fruit.
– Store leftover jerky in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Squirrel and Bean Chili
Squirrel and Bean Chili: A hearty, comforting dish perfect for a cozy night in or a tailgating party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground squirrel (or beef, if you prefer)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups cooked kidney beans
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chili broth
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapenos or hot sauce for added heat
Instructions:
1. Brown the ground squirrel (or beef) in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in the cooked kidney beans, diced tomatoes, chili broth, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Squirrel Fricassee
This classic recipe showcases the tender flavor of squirrel meat, slow-cooked in a rich and savory sauce. Perfect for a chilly evening or a hunting trip celebration.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb squirrel meat, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the squirrel meat and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the chicken broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, and thyme. Stir to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours or until the squirrel is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Squirrel Sausage Patties
Squirrel Sausage Patties Recipe
Summary: These savory patties are made with a combination of sausage meat, breadcrumbs, and chopped nuts, perfect for a quick snack or as a topping for your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sausage meat (such as pork or chicken)
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a large bowl, combine sausage meat, breadcrumbs, and chopped nuts. Mix well until just combined.
3. Form into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
4. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
5. Serve hot with your favorite toppings, such as ketchup, mustard, or chives.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Squirrel and Vegetable Stir-Fry
This recipe combines the nutty flavor of squirrel with a medley of colorful vegetables, all stir-fried to perfection. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb squirrel meat, sliced into thin strips
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 cup broccoli florets
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the squirrel strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, bell pepper, and carrot to the pan. Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the broccoli florets to the pan and cook for an additional minute.
5. Return the squirrel strips to the pan and stir in the soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Squirrel Meatloaf
This playful take on traditional meatloaf is perfect for adventurous eaters and nature lovers alike. Made with a blend of wholesome ingredients, this dish is sure to delight your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake)
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine mushrooms, oats, breadcrumbs, walnuts, tomato paste, and thyme.
3. Mix well until combined.
4. Shape into a loaf shape and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Squirrel and Noodle Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly day, Squirrel and Noodle Soup is a unique twist on traditional favorites. This recipe combines tender squirrel meat with flavorful noodles and aromatic vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb squirrel meat (ground or cubed), fresh or frozen
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup noodles of your choice (e.g., egg noodles, rice noodles)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the squirrel meat and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces if needed.
3. Add the noodles, chicken broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the noodles are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Roasted Squirrel with Root Vegetables
A hearty, flavorful dish that pairs perfectly roasted squirrel with a medley of root vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 squirrel, cleaned and patted dry
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, peeled and chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium parsnips, peeled and chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the squirrel, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the squirrel on a roasting pan or a sheet tray lined with parchment paper.
5. Arrange the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and parsnips around the squirrel.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the squirrel is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to go nuts for these 18 savory squirrel recipes! From Southern Fried Squirrel with Gravy to Squirrel Jerky, and from Slow-Cooked Squirrel Stew to Roasted Squirrel with Root Vegetables, this collection offers a variety of dishes that are sure to satisfy any adventurous cook. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food, international flavors, or simply something new to try, these recipes showcase the versatility and deliciousness of squirrel as an ingredient. So why not give one a try and see what all the fuss is about?