Squirrel and Mushroom Risotto
Squirrel Recipe
1Setup & Prepare
About This Recipe
This creamy squirrel recipe delivers velvety rice that perfectly complements the game. Using patient stirring and timing, you'll create a dish that showcases the unique qualities of wild game while remaining approachable for home cooks.
Northern Italian technique meets American small game
Elegant Comfort This sophisticated preparation combines squirrel with classic risotto technique, creating elegant comfort food that showcases both ingredients.
Ingredients (Serves 6-8)
- 2 lbs squirrel meat, cooked and diced (from 4-5 squirrels)
- 1.5 cups Arborio rice
- 6-8 cups hot chicken stock
- 1 lb mixed mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1 onion, diced fine
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup Parmigiano-Reggiano
- 3 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp fresh herbs (thyme, parsley)
Traditional Risotto Method
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Stock Management: Keep stock at a gentle simmer for 15-20 minutes in a separate pan.
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Mushroom Preparation: Sauté mushrooms until golden, about 5 minutes. Season and set aside.
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Risotto Foundation: Sauté shallots, add rice, and toast. Add the wine, then add the stock one ladle at a time.
2Ingredients
Shopping List
3Cooking Instructions
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Stock Management: Keep stock at a gentle simmer for 15-20 minutes in a separate pan.
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Mushroom Preparation: Sauté mushrooms until golden, about 5 minutes. Season and set aside.
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Risotto Foundation: Sauté shallots, add rice, and toast. Add the wine, then add the stock one ladle at a time.
Essential Preparation Guidelines
- Young vs. old: Young squirrels more tender than mature animals
- Seasonal timing: Fall squirrels optimal eating quality
- Clean processing: Avoid hair contamination during skinning
- Temperature control: Keep meat cool throughout processing
Cooking Method Selection
- Tender cuts: Quick cooking methods for young animals
- Tough cuts: Slow, moist heat for older animals
- Ground preparations: Need multiple animals for volume
- Whole preparations: 2-3 squirrels per person for entrée
Lean Meat Management
- Fat addition: Essential for ground preparations (25-30%)
- Moisture retention: Brining, marinating help prevent drying
- Temperature monitoring: Don't overcook lean meat
- Resting periods: 5-10 minutes for whole preparations
Volume and Economics
- Numbers required: Need multiple squirrels for substantial meals
- Labor intensity: Small size makes processing time-consuming
- Specialty positioning: Market as artisanal, unique protein
- Sustainable harvest: Abundant populations support regular hunting
Wine and Beverage Pairings
- Light preparations: Pinot Noir, Beaujolais, light reds
- Rich dishes: Chardonnay, white Burgundy, full whites
- International cuisines: Match wine to cuisine style
- Comfort food: Beer, casual wines, regional selections
Field to Table Considerations
- Shot placement: Head shots minimize meat damage
- Immediate cooling: Small thermal mass cools quickly
- Clean field dressing: Process within 2-3 hours
▶Watch the Recipe
See the techniques in action with our step-by-step video guide
4Chef's Notes & Pairings
Nutrition Facts
Per serving: 350 calories, 32g protein, 13g fat, 34g carbohydrates.
