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When it comes to versatile proteins, squirrel meat deserves a spot on your kitchen table. It's lean, sustainable, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for Instant Pot recipes. Whether you're looking to whip up a comforting stew or something a bit more adventurous like BBQ sliders, there's plenty to explore. Let's delve into some unique and delicious ways to cook with squirrel that you might not have considered before.
Key Takeaways
- Explore savory squirrel tacos paired with fresh salsa for a unique twist on a classic dish.
- Try spicy squirrel chili, customizable with heat levels and garnished with fresh cilantro and cheese.
- Create a comforting squirrel and rice casserole, perfect for meal prep and easy reheating.
- Enjoy BBQ squirrel sliders, featuring tender meat and flavorful BBQ sauce, ideal for casual gatherings.
- Make herb-infused squirrel soup with fresh vegetables, creating a savory broth and tender meat for a hearty meal.
What Makes Squirrel a Great Choice for Instant Pot Recipes?
Cooking squirrel in an Instant Pot is a fantastic way to enjoy this often-overlooked game meat. Not only is squirrel meat lean and flavorful, but it's also a sustainable source of protein that can be found in many backyards and forests.
The Instant Pot locks in moisture and flavor, allowing the meat to become tender and juicy in a fraction of the time it would take to cook using traditional methods. Plus, the ease of preparation makes it perfect for both novice cooks and experienced chefs alike.
This recipe for Instant Pot Squirrel Stew combines hearty vegetables and aromatic herbs to create a comforting dish that's perfect for any occasion. The rich flavors meld beautifully, making for a satisfying meal that will impress family and friends.
With minimal effort and maximum flavor, this dish showcases why squirrel is a great choice for your next culinary adventure.
Ingredients:
- 2 squirrel carcasses, cleaned and cut into pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bay leaf
Cooking Instructions:
Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the olive oil and once it's hot, brown the squirrel pieces on all sides. This step enhances the flavor of the meat.
Once browned, remove the pieces and set them aside. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3 minutes. Then, add the carrots, celery, and potatoes, stirring to combine.
Return the squirrel pieces to the pot and pour in the chicken broth. Add thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and the bay leaf. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to manual high pressure for 25 minutes.
After the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for 10 minutes before carefully using the quick release function to release any remaining pressure. Remove the bay leaf before serving, and enjoy your hearty squirrel stew!
Extra Tips:
When preparing squirrel, it's important to verify that the meat is properly cleaned and aged for a day or two before cooking, as this enhances the flavor and tenderness.
Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices based on your taste preferences. Additionally, serve the stew with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal.
If you're looking for a thicker consistency, consider adding a cornstarch slurry at the end of cooking and simmering for a few minutes.
Classic Instant Pot Squirrel Stew
Preparing this dish is straightforward and allows you to enjoy the unique taste of squirrel meat without much fuss. The Instant Pot does the heavy lifting, enabling you to focus on the delicious aroma wafting through your kitchen as the stew cooks.
Get ready to savor a dish that's both hearty and wholesome, celebrating the flavors of the great outdoors.
Ingredients:
- 2-3 squirrel pieces (cleaned and cut into chunks)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 cup potatoes, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup frozen peas (optional for added color and sweetness)
Cooking Instructions:
- Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat up. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the squirrel chunks to the pot, browning them on all sides for about 5 minutes. Once browned, add the carrots, celery, and potatoes to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and season the mixture with thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir everything to combine, making sure the squirrel is submerged in the liquid.
- Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to "Manual" mode for 25 minutes. After the cooking time is up, allow for natural pressure release for about 10 minutes before performing a quick release to let out any remaining steam. If using, stir in the frozen peas at this point and let them warm through for a few minutes before serving.
Extra Tips:
When cooking squirrel, it's important to confirm that the meat is tender and well-seasoned, as it can be leaner than other meats.
Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your preference, and consider adding a splash of red wine for an extra depth of flavor. If you have leftovers, this stew keeps well in the refrigerator and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Enjoy your delicious squirrel stew!
Savory Squirrel Tacos With Fresh Salsa
Savory squirrel tacos with fresh salsa are an innovative and delicious way to enjoy a unique protein that often goes overlooked in many kitchens. Cooking squirrel in the Instant Pot not only makes the meat tender and flavorful but also simplifies the process, allowing you to craft these mouthwatering tacos in no time at all.
Pairing the seasoned meat with a vibrant fresh salsa adds a burst of flavor that complements the dish perfectly, creating a delightful meal that will surprise and satisfy your taste buds.
These tacos are perfect for casual gatherings or a fun weeknight dinner. With the versatility of the ingredients, you can customize the toppings to suit your preferences, whether you prefer a little heat or a bit of creaminess. The combination of textures and flavors will make these savory squirrel tacos a hit with both family and friends.
Ingredients:
- 2 squirrel carcasses, cleaned and cut into pieces
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 8 small corn tortillas
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by seasoning the squirrel pieces with salt, pepper, chili powder, and cumin. Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add a bit of oil.
Once heated, add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. Add the seasoned squirrel pieces and sear them for a few minutes on each side for extra flavor.
Pour in the chicken broth, then close the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 25 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release of steam.
After releasing the pressure, carefully remove the squirrel from the pot and shred the meat using two forks. Warm the corn tortillas in a skillet or directly over a flame until soft.
To assemble the tacos, place a generous amount of shredded squirrel on each tortilla and top with fresh salsa.
Extra Tips:
When making your fresh salsa, feel free to experiment with ingredients like diced avocados or jalapeños for added flavor and texture.
Additionally, consider marinating the squirrel in the spices overnight for an even deeper flavor. Remember to taste and adjust seasoning as needed for your preferred spice level. Enjoy your savory squirrel tacos with a drizzle of lime juice for the perfect finishing touch!
Squirrel and Rice Casserole
Squirrel and Rice Casserole is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together the rich flavors of squirrel meat with savory rice and vegetables. This recipe is perfect for those looking to explore unique game meat dishes while also enjoying the simplicity of a one-pot meal.
The Instant Pot makes it easy to prepare and cook this casserole in no time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This dish isn't only delicious but also provides a great opportunity to introduce friends and family to cooking with game meat.
It's a fantastic way to utilize locally sourced ingredients and create a filling meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week. With a few simple ingredients and your Instant Pot, you'll have a delightful casserole ready to serve.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound of squirrel meat, cut into pieces
- 1 cup of rice (white or brown)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can of cream of mushroom soup
- 2 cups of chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon of thyme
- 1 teaspoon of paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup of shredded cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add a little oil and sauté the chopped onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic until they're softened and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
Next, add the squirrel pieces to the pot, browning them lightly on all sides. Once the meat is browned, pour in the chicken broth and stir in the rice, cream of mushroom soup, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure everything is combined well.
Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Once the cooking cycle is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
If desired, stir in the shredded cheese until melted. Serve your squirrel and rice casserole hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Extra Tips:
For added flavor, consider marinating the squirrel meat in your favorite spices or sauces beforehand. You can also experiment with different vegetables or add some cooked bacon to enhance the dish.
If you prefer a creamier texture, you can increase the amount of cream of mushroom soup or add a splash of heavy cream just before serving. Always verify the squirrel meat is cooked through and tender before enjoying your meal.
Spicy Instant Pot Squirrel Chili
Making this dish isn't only straightforward thanks to the Instant Pot, but it also allows you to enjoy a delicious meal in a fraction of the time it would take using conventional cooking methods.
The resulting chili is packed with flavor, a touch of heat, and is sure to impress even the pickiest of eaters. Gather your ingredients and get ready to whip up a batch that will warm you from the inside out!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound squirrel meat, cleaned and cut into pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2-3 jalapeño peppers, diced (adjust based on heat preference)
- 2 cans (15 oz each) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
- Shredded cheese, for serving (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the olive oil and once hot, throw in the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic, bell pepper, and jalapeño, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant. Next, add the squirrel meat to the pot, browning it on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.
Once the meat is browned, add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth and Worcestershire sauce, stirring to combine.
Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 30 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes before carefully releasing any remaining pressure.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and shredded cheese if desired.
Extra Tips:
To enhance the flavor of your Spicy Instant Pot Squirrel Chili, consider marinating the squirrel meat overnight in a mixture of spices or your favorite marinade.
This will allow the meat to absorb more flavor and become even more tender. Additionally, you can customize the heat level to your liking by adjusting the number of jalapeños or even adding a few dashes of hot sauce before serving.
Don't hesitate to experiment with other beans or vegetables to make it your own!
Herb-Infused Squirrel Soup
Preparing this dish is straightforward and can be done in under an hour. The Instant Pot streamlines the cooking process, allowing you to infuse the squirrel meat with herbs while also developing a deep, savory broth.
With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you'll have a warm and satisfying soup ready to serve in no time. Let's gather the ingredients and get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 squirrel, cleaned and cut into pieces
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup potatoes, diced (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
- Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion, minced garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and the onions become translucent.
- Add the squirrel pieces to the pot, browning them on all sides for about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, followed by the thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, and diced potatoes if using. Stir to combine.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 25 minutes. Once done, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes before carefully switching the valve to venting to release any remaining pressure.
- Once the soup is ready, remove the squirrel pieces and shred the meat from the bones. Return the shredded meat to the pot and stir well. Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve hot.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine to the pot after sautéing the vegetables, allowing it to simmer for a minute before adding the broth.
You can also customize the herbs based on your preferences—try adding parsley or dill for a different twist. Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, and it also freezes well for future meals.
Enjoy your herb-infused squirrel soup with crusty bread for a complete meal!
BBQ Squirrel Sliders
These sliders are perfect for serving at casual get-togethers or as a fun weeknight dinner. Pair them with your favorite sides, such as coleslaw or potato salad, and watch as your guests rave about this unexpected dish.
Let's explore the ingredients and cooking instructions to get you on your way to delicious BBQ squirrel sliders!
Ingredients:
- 2 squirrel carcasses, cleaned and cut into pieces
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Slider buns
- Pickles and coleslaw, for topping (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function and adding the olive oil. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until they're soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
Season the squirrel pieces with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot, browning them for a couple of minutes on each side. Once browned, pour in the chicken broth and BBQ sauce, stirring to combine.
Seal the Instant Pot lid and set it to cook on high pressure for 25 minutes. After the cooking time is finished, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes before doing a quick release for any remaining pressure.
Remove the squirrel pieces and shred the meat using two forks. Mix in additional BBQ sauce if desired, then assemble your sliders by placing the shredded meat on slider buns, topped with pickles and coleslaw if you like.
Extra Tips:
When preparing squirrel, be sure to source it from a reputable source or hunt it yourself, ensuring it's fresh and properly cleaned.
For added flavor, marinate the squirrel pieces in BBQ sauce for a few hours before cooking. If you're looking for a spicier kick, consider adding some hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the BBQ sauce.
Enjoy experimenting with different toppings and sauces to make these sliders your own!
Squirrel and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Squirrel and vegetable stir-fry is a delightful way to incorporate lean protein with fresh vegetables, creating a dish that's not only flavorful but also nutritious. The Instant Pot makes it incredibly easy to prepare this meal, allowing for quick cooking while retaining the essence of the ingredients. This recipe is perfect for those looking to explore game meat or simply wanting a new twist on a classic stir-fry.
In this dish, the squirrel meat is tenderized and infused with a variety of vegetables, ensuring that each bite is bursting with flavor. The combination of savory sauces and colorful veggies creates a visually appealing and satisfying meal. Serve it over rice or noodles for a complete dinner that's sure to impress your family or guests.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound squirrel meat, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 bell peppers, sliced (any color)
- 2 carrots, julienned
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Cooked rice or noodles for serving
To begin, set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and heat the vegetable oil. Add the onion, bell peppers, and carrots, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
Next, stir in the squirrel meat, garlic, and ginger, allowing them to brown slightly, about 5 minutes. Pour in the soy sauce and oyster sauce, mixing everything together.
Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for about 5 minutes before switching to a quick release for any remaining pressure.
After opening the lid, stir in the broccoli and the cornstarch mixture to thicken the sauce. Let it cook on the sauté function for an additional 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through. Serve the stir-fry over rice or noodles.
For best results, consider marinating the squirrel meat in the soy sauce and garlic for at least an hour before cooking to enhance its flavor. Additionally, feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Just remember to cut them into uniform sizes for even cooking. Enjoy your flavorful and unique squirrel stir-fry!
Instant Pot Squirrel Ragu Over Pasta
Squirrel ragu is a delightful and hearty dish that showcases the rich flavor of squirrel meat, combined with the savory goodness of tomatoes, herbs, and spices. Cooking this dish in an Instant Pot not only speeds up the process but also guarantees that the meat becomes tender and infused with all the wonderful flavors.
Serve it over your choice of pasta for a satisfying meal that's perfect for a cozy evening.
This Instant Pot Squirrel Ragu is an excellent way to explore unique game meat while enjoying a classic Italian-inspired dish. The Instant Pot's pressure cooking feature helps to break down the meat, making it tender and succulent, while the flavors meld beautifully.
Pair this ragu with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a side of crusty bread for a complete dining experience.
Ingredients:
- 2-3 squirrel legs and thighs, cleaned and cut into pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 8 ounces pasta of your choice
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Heat the olive oil and add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are softened.
Add the squirrel pieces to the pot and brown them on all sides for about 7-10 minutes. Once browned, stir in the diced tomatoes, broth, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to cook on high pressure for 25 minutes.
After the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for about 10 minutes before manually releasing any remaining pressure.
While the ragu is cooking, cook the pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and serve it topped with the squirrel ragu. Garnish with fresh parsley and, if desired, a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Extra Tips:
For maximum flavor, consider marinating the squirrel pieces in your favorite herbs and spices for a few hours before cooking. This will enhance the taste of the meat.
Additionally, feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers or mushrooms to the ragu for added texture and flavor.
If you want a thicker sauce, you can remove the squirrel pieces once cooked, shred the meat, and then simmer the sauce on sauté mode for a few extra minutes before serving.
Enjoy your culinary adventure with this unique dish!
Tips for Cooking Squirrel in Your Instant Pot
Cooking squirrel in your Instant Pot is an excellent way to prepare this game meat quickly and efficiently while guaranteeing tenderness and flavor. The Instant Pot's pressure cooking feature allows the meat to absorb all the spices and liquids, making every bite delicious. Not only is this method convenient, but it also retains the nutritional value of the squirrel, making it a wholesome choice for those looking to explore unique proteins.
This recipe focuses on creating a savory squirrel stew that can be enjoyed on a chilly evening or as a hearty meal in any season. The combination of vegetables and spices complements the natural flavor of the squirrel, resulting in a dish that's both comforting and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- 2-3 squirrel pieces, skinned and cleaned
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 cup potatoes, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 teaspoon rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Cooking Instructions:
- Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the olive oil and let it heat for a minute. Once hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent. This step will create a flavorful base for your stew.
- Next, add the squirrel pieces to the pot and brown them on all sides for about 5 minutes. Then, add the sliced carrots, chopped celery, diced potatoes, chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, bay leaf, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Close the lid of the Instant Pot, confirming the steam release valve is in the sealing position. Select the "Manual" or "Pressure Cook" setting and cook on high pressure for 25 minutes. When the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural release for about 10 minutes, then carefully switch to quick release to release any remaining pressure.
- If you prefer a thicker stew, remove the squirrel pieces after cooking, shred the meat, and set aside. Turn the Instant Pot back to the sauté function and mix in the cornstarch dissolved in a bit of water. Stir until the stew thickens and then return the shredded meat to the pot.
Extra Tips:
When cooking squirrel, it's important to verify that the meat is well cleaned and properly cooked to avoid any gamey taste. Feel free to adjust the seasoning according to your preference. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or peas for added flavor and nutrition.
If you have leftovers, they store well in the refrigerator and can be reheated, making this dish great for meal prep!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Squirrel Meat Safe to Eat?
Absolutely, you can enjoy squirrel meat! It's safe to eat as long as it's properly cooked, just like your favorite chicken dish. Always make sure it's sourced from a clean environment to avoid any health risks.
Where Can I Source Fresh Squirrel Meat?
You can source fresh squirrel meat from local hunters, farmers' markets, or specialty meat shops. Just make sure it's sourced ethically and legally—check local regulations before purchasing or hunting to stay compliant and safe.
How Does Squirrel Taste Compared to Other Meats?
You might think squirrel's flavor is odd, but it's surprisingly mild, resembling a cross between chicken and rabbit. Once you try it, you'll appreciate its unique taste and versatility in various dishes.
Can I Freeze Cooked Squirrel Dishes?
Yes, you can freeze cooked squirrel dishes. Just make certain they're stored in airtight containers or freezer bags. Properly sealed, they'll maintain their flavor and texture for up to six months in the freezer.
What Are Common Seasonings for Squirrel Meat?
When seasoning squirrel meat, think of a flavor symphony. You'll love using garlic, onion, thyme, and paprika. A dash of pepper and a sprinkle of salt can elevate your dish to new heights of deliciousness.
