Squirrel stew. The very phrase conjures images of rustic kitchens and hearty meals. While not as common as other game stews, squirrel, when properly prepared, offers a surprisingly delicious and lean protein source. This crock-pot recipe simplifies the cooking process, allowing for tender, flavorful meat that's perfect for a chilly evening.
Important Note: This recipe assumes you've already ethically and legally harvested your squirrel, properly cleaned, and skinned it. Always adhere to local hunting regulations and ensure your squirrel is field-dressed and prepared correctly before beginning. Consult experienced hunters or guides if you're unsure about any part of the process. Safety and ethical practices are paramount.
Ingredients:
- 1-1.5 lbs squirrel meat, cut into bite-sized pieces (about 2-3 medium squirrels)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup chicken broth (or beef broth for a richer flavor)
- 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sear the Squirrel (Optional but Recommended): Before placing the squirrel meat in the crock-pot, you can sear it in olive oil over medium-high heat for a few minutes per side. This step adds a delicious crust and enhances the overall flavor. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.
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Layer the Ingredients: In your crock-pot, layer the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Place the seared (or unseared) squirrel meat on top. Sprinkle with minced garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
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Add Liquids: Pour the chicken broth and red wine (if using) over the meat and vegetables. Add the bay leaf.
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Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the squirrel meat is incredibly tender.
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Thicken (Optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, remove about 1 cup of the cooking liquid and whisk in the flour until smooth. Return the mixture to the crock-pot and stir well. Cook for another 15-20 minutes, or until the stew has thickened to your desired consistency.
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Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or mashed potatoes.
Tips and Variations:
- Wild Mushrooms: Add a cup of your favorite wild mushrooms (like chanterelles or morels) for an earthy, intense flavor.
- Potatoes: Include diced potatoes for added heartiness. Add them about an hour before the stew is finished cooking.
- Other Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like parsnips, turnips, or butternut squash.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Adjust Cooking Time: Cooking time may vary depending on the size and age of the squirrel and your crock-pot's settings. Always check for doneness before serving.
A Note on Ethical Hunting and Preparation:
Remember, responsible hunting is crucial. Respect wildlife, follow all regulations, and ensure you're properly handling and preparing the game to avoid foodborne illnesses. If you're unfamiliar with squirrel hunting or processing, seeking guidance from experienced hunters is essential.
This recipe provides a delicious and unique culinary adventure. Enjoy your homemade squirrel stew!
