Are you tired of the same old chicken and beef dishes? Look no further! Ostrich, a lean and flavorful protein, is a game-changer for adventurous eaters. With its mild flavor and tender texture, ostrich is perfect for grilling, pan-searing, or slow-cooking. But where do you start? From savory stir-fries to spicy curries, we’ve rounded up the most exotic and mouth-watering ostrich recipes to take your taste buds on a wild ride.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 unique and delicious ostrich recipes that will make you rethink your protein game. From classic dishes like grilled steak with garlic herb butter to international-inspired creations like satay with peanut sauce, these recipes are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates. So, what are you waiting for? Let’s get started on this gastronomic journey and discover the incredible world of ostrich cuisine!
Grilled Ostrich Steak with Garlic Herb Butter
Grilled Ostrich Steak with Garlic Herb Butter: Elevate your steak game with this flavorful combination of tender ostrich steak and rich garlic herb butter, perfect for a special occasion or everyday indulgence.
Ingredients:
– 4 ostrich steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together butter, garlic, rosemary, and thyme until well combined.
3. Season ostrich steaks with salt and pepper.
4. Grill steaks for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. During the last minute of grilling, spread garlic herb butter evenly over each steak.
6. Let steaks rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total
Ostrich Burger with Caramelized Onions and Blue Cheese
Elevate your burger game with this unique Ostrich Burger recipe, featuring caramelized onions and pungent blue cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ostrich burgers (or substitute with beef or bison)
– 2 medium onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of blue cheese crumbles
– Lettuce leaves, tomato slices, and your favorite condiments
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large skillet, cook the ostrich burgers for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add olive oil, onions, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook over low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized.
4. Assemble the burgers by spreading a slice of blue cheese on each patty, followed by a spoonful of caramelized onions.
5. Add lettuce leaves, tomato slices, and your favorite condiments to complete the burger.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pan-Seared Ostrich Medallions with Red Wine Reduction
Elevate your dinner game with this rich and savory dish featuring tender ostrich medallions, seared to perfection and served with a bold red wine reduction.
Ingredients:
– 4 ostrich medallions (about 1 inch thick)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Fresh thyme leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Season the ostrich medallions with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in an oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the ostrich medallions for 1-2 minutes per side, or until browned. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
4. While the ostrich is cooking, reduce the red wine in a small saucepan over medium heat until it reaches a syrupy consistency (about 10-15 minutes).
5. Remove the skillet from the oven and whisk in the butter until melted. Serve the pan-seared ostrich medallions with the red wine reduction spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ostrich Stir-Fry with Ginger and Soy Sauce
A flavorful and savory stir-fry recipe that combines the tender ostrich meat with the warmth of ginger and the richness of soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ostrich breast or thighs, sliced into thin strips
– 2 inches fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the grated ginger and minced garlic; stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the ostrich strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using). Pour over the ostrich and stir to combine.
5. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the ostrich is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ostrich Meatballs in Spicy Tomato Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this unique and flavorful recipe that combines the tenderness of ostrich meat with the bold flavors of spicy tomato sauce. This dish is perfect for adventurous eaters looking to try something new.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ostrich ground meat
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups canned crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ostrich meat, onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, and oregano. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Form into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches in diameter.
4. Place meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
5. In a large saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes, hot sauce, and baked meatballs. Simmer over medium-low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Slow-Cooked Ostrich Stew with Root Vegetables
A hearty and comforting stew perfect for a chilly evening, made with tender beef and a variety of root vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 large potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the beef cubes, then set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add carrots, parsnips, and potato; cook for 5 minutes.
5. Add browned beef, broth, and thyme; season with salt and pepper.
6. Cover and simmer on low for 2-1/2 to 3 hours or until the beef is tender.
Ostrich Kebabs with Lemon and Rosemary Marinade
Experience the bold flavor of ostrich paired with the brightness of lemon and the earthiness of rosemary. This recipe yields tender, juicy kebabs perfect for a summer BBQ or dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ostrich breast or tenderloin, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 4 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the ostrich cubes to the marinade and mix well to coat.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
5. Thread marinated ostrich onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
6. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until cooked through.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes per serving
Ostrich Chili with Black Beans and Corn
This hearty chili recipe combines the rich flavor of ostrich meat with the comfort of black beans, corn, and spices. Perfect for a cold winter evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ostrich ground meat
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 2 tbsp chili powder
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the ostrich meat in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the black beans, corn kernels, diced tomatoes, and beef broth to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30-40 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ostrich Sausage and Peppers Skillet
A hearty and flavorful one-pot dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or brunch. This recipe combines the savory taste of ostrich sausage with sweet bell peppers, onions, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Ostrich Sausage, sliced
– 2 large Bell Peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 large Onion, sliced
– 2 cloves Garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Smoked Paprika
– Salt and Pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp Olive Oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the bell peppers, onion, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the smoked paprika and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Return the sausage to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables.
6. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ostrich Tacos with Avocado Lime Crema
Experience the bold flavors of Africa and Mexico with this unique fusion dish, featuring tender ostrich meat wrapped in a crispy taco shell and topped with creamy avocado lime crema.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ostrich breast or thighs, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Avocado Lime Crema (see below)
– Sliced radishes, cilantro, and lime wedges for garnish
Avocado Lime Crema:
– 3 ripe avocados, mashed
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– Juice of 1 lime
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro or scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the ostrich strips and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to several hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the ostrich from the marinade and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled ostrich, Avocado Lime Crema, radishes, cilantro, and lime wedges.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Ostrich Bolognese Pasta
This rich and flavorful pasta dish combines the tender and juicy ostrich meat with the classic Italian flavors of tomato sauce, onions, carrots, and celery.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ostrich ground meat
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, grated
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12 oz pasta of your choice
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, cook the ostrich ground meat over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, grated carrots, and sliced celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, dried basil, and dried oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine the cooked pasta and sauce mixture. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ostrich Satay with Peanut Sauce
Experience the unique flavor of ostrich meat in this Southeast Asian-inspired dish, paired with a creamy peanut sauce for dipping.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ostrich meat (cut into thin strips)
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 20 bamboo skewers
– Peanut Sauce (see below for ingredients)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together coconut milk, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper.
3. Add ostrich strips to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread ostrich onto bamboo skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill satay for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve with Peanut Sauce (see below).
Peanut Sauce:
– 1/2 cup creamy natural peanut butter
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes (including marinating time)
Ostrich and Mushroom Risotto
A creamy and savory Italian-inspired dish that combines the tender ostrich meat with earthy mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup ostrich breast or thighs, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the ostrich and mushrooms; cook until the meat is browned and the mushrooms are tender, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
6. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and cook until the liquid is almost completely absorbed.
7. Add the warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
8. Cook for about 20-25 minutes or until the rice is creamy and tender.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Ostrich Carpaccio with Arugula and Parmesan
Experience the tender and flavorful ostrich meat in a refreshing and light carpaccio dish, paired with peppery arugula and nutty parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ostrich carpaccio (thinly sliced)
– 4 cups arugula
– 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Arrange the arugula leaves on a large plate or platter.
2. Place the ostrich carpaccio slices on top of the arugula, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Sprinkle the shaved Parmesan cheese over the ostrich slices.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the dish, allowing each component to shine.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time:
– Preparation time: 10 minutes
– Serving size: 1-2 plates
– Cooking method: None (raw)
Enjoy your Ostrich Carpaccio with Arugula and Parmesan!
Ostrich Curry with Coconut Milk
This flavorful curry dish combines tender ostrich meat with creamy coconut milk, aromatic spices, and a hint of Indian inspiration. Perfect for adventurous eaters, this recipe is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ostrich breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onions and cook until golden, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, ginger, curry powder, cumin, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add ostrich pieces and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in coconut milk and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let curry simmer for 10-15 minutes or until ostrich is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Ostrich Sliders with Chipotle Mayo
These juicy ostrich sliders are packed with flavor and topped with a spicy chipotle mayo that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ostrich burgers, formed into 4-6 patties
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 2 tbsp mayonnaise
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season ostrich patties with salt and pepper.
3. Grill patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, mix chipotle peppers, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and cilantro in a bowl.
5. Assemble sliders by placing a cooked patty on each bun, followed by a dollop of chipotle mayo.
6. Add lettuce, tomato, and cheese (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Ostrich Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
A hearty and flavorful twist on a classic comfort food dish, this ostrich pot pie is perfect for a cold winter’s night. The rich flavors of the ostrich meat and vegetables are perfectly balanced by the flaky crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ostrich breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup butter, cold and cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup ice-cold water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add ostrich and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, and frozen vegetables; cook until thawed and tender.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, salt, and pepper. Gradually add cold water to form a dough.
5. Roll out dough on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Fill crust with ostrich mixture and dot top with butter.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until crust is golden brown.
Ostrich Jerky with Smoky BBQ Glaze
Take your snacking game to new heights with this unique and flavorful recipe featuring ostrich jerky smothered in a sweet and tangy Smoky BBQ Glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ostrich breast, sliced into thin strips
– 1/4 cup liquid smoke
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Smoky BBQ Glaze (recipe below)
Smoky BBQ Glaze:
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together liquid smoke, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add ostrich strips to the marinade and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
4. Remove ostrich from marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 2-3 hours, or until jerky reaches desired level of dryness.
6. Brush with Smoky BBQ Glaze during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
7. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Summary
Get ready to taste the thrill with these 18 exotic ostrich recipes! From savory steaks and burgers to international-inspired stir-fries and curries, this collection has something for every adventurous eater. Try your hand at Grilled Ostrich Steak with Garlic Herb Butter, Ostrich Burger with Caramelized Onions and Blue Cheese, or Pan-Seared Ostrich Medallions with Red Wine Reduction. Or venture further afield with Ostrich Satay with Peanut Sauce, Ostrich Curry with Coconut Milk, and more. These mouth-watering dishes are sure to take your culinary game to new heights!