If you're looking for a unique meat to add to your diet, consider trying cooked opossum. One cubic inch of boneless cooked opossum contains approximately 40 calories. Opossum meat has been consumed in some cultures for centuries and is becoming more widely available.

Cooked opossum meat is a good source of protein, iron, and zinc. A 3-ounce serving of cooked opossum meat contains about 22 grams of protein, 7.5 milligrams of iron, and 5 milligrams of zinc.

In this article, we'll explore the nutritional content of cooked opossum meat, its safety for human consumption, preparation tips, and more.

What is opossum meat and where can you find it?

Opossum meat is the flesh of the opossum, a marsupial native to North America. Opossum meat can be found at some specialty food markets or online retailers. Some hunters also harvest opossums for their meat. When purchasing opossum meat, be sure to buy from a reputable source and cook it properly to avoid any potential safety issues.

Nutritional content of cooked opossum meat

Cooked opossum meat is a good source of protein, iron, and zinc. A 3-ounce serving of cooked opossum meat contains about 22 grams of protein, 7.5 milligrams of iron, and 5 milligrams of zinc. Opossum meat is also relatively low in calories and fat, with only about 70 calories and 2 grams of fat per 3-ounce serving.

Is opossum meat safe for human consumption?

Opossum meat is safe for human consumption when it is cooked thoroughly to an internal temperature of 160°F. As with any meat, there is a risk of bacterial contamination, so handling and cooking opossum meat properly is important. It is important to note that some opossums may carry diseases such as leptospirosis, so it is best to only consume opossum meat from a reputable source.

How can you prepare cooked opossum meat?

Opossum meat can be prepared in a variety of ways, including roasted, grilled, or stewed. It can be seasoned with herbs and spices or marinated to add flavor. As with any meat, it is important to cook opossum thoroughly to avoid any potential safety issues. Some people also use opossum meat in traditional recipes such as Brunswick stew or possum pie, while others incorporate it into modern dishes such as opossum tacos or opossum sliders.

What does cooked opossum meat taste like?

Cooked opossum meat has been described as having a flavor similar to chicken or rabbit. It is mild and slightly gamey, but can be made more flavorful with seasoning or marinades. The texture of opossum meat is similar to chicken or pork, and the meat is lean and tender when cooked properly.

What are the benefits of eating cooked opossum meat?

Eating cooked opossum meat can provide a variety of health benefits, including a good source of protein, iron, and zinc. It is also a relatively low-calorie and low-fat meat option. In addition, opossum meat is a sustainable and ethical meat choice, as opossums are not factory-farmed and are often considered pests.

A sustainable and ethical meat choice

Opossums are often seen as pests and can cause damage to crops or other property. Harvesting opossums for their meat can help control their population and reduce their negative impact. Opossums are not factory-farmed like many other meats, making them a more ethical and sustainable meat choice.

The history of opossum meat in American cuisine

Opossum meat has been consumed in some cultures for centuries, including Native American and Appalachian cuisine. In the early days of the United States, opossum meat was even considered a delicacy and was served at formal dinners. Today, opossum meat is not as commonly consumed in the United States, but it is still a popular meat in some areas of the country.

Opossum meat in traditional and modern recipes

Opossum meat has been used in traditional recipes such as Brunswick stew and possum pie. It is also used in modern recipes such as opossum tacos and opossum sliders. Opossum meat can be prepared in a variety of ways, including roasted, grilled, or stewed. It can be seasoned with herbs and spices or marinated to add flavor.

Alternatives to opossum meat in low-calorie diets

If you're looking for low-calorie meat options but are not comfortable with trying opossum meat, there are many other options available. Lean meats such as chicken, turkey, and fish are all good low-calorie options. Vegetarian or vegan options such as tofu or tempeh can also be used as a source of protein in low-calorie diets.