Did you know that a 1-unit serving of lamb spleen braised contains approximately 460 calories? Despite its low popularity, lamb spleen is a nutrient-dense organ meat that provides many health benefits worth exploring.

Lamb spleen is high in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It's an excellent source of iron, vitamin B12, and copper. With a rich and unique flavor, lamb spleen is an ideal meal option for adventurous eaters who want to experiment with unusual cuts of meat.

In this article, we'll dive into the benefits of lamb spleen, how to cook it, potential risks, and some delicious lamb spleen recipes to get you started.

What is Lamb Spleen?

Lamb spleen is a small organ that is part of the lamb's digestive system. The spleen is located near the stomach and plays a crucial role in filtering blood and removing old or damaged red blood cells. Lamb spleen is often overlooked as a food source because it's not a commonly consumed organ meat. However, it's an excellent source of nutrients and flavor that is worth exploring for adventurous eaters.

Calorie Breakdown

A 1-unit serving of lamb spleen braised contains approximately 460 calories. This may seem high, but the high protein and nutrient content makes it a satisfying and nutritious meal option. It's easy to manage your calorie intake by pairing lamb spleen with lower-calorie vegetables or grains to create a balanced and healthy meal.

Nutrient Composition

Lamb spleen is a nutrient-dense food that provides many essential vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients. It's particularly high in protein, iron, vitamin B12, and copper. A 1-unit serving of lamb spleen braised provides approximately 46 grams of protein, which is more than half of the daily recommended intake for most adults. In addition, lamb spleen is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, folate, and magnesium.

Health Benefits

Eating lamb spleen provides many health benefits, including improved immune function, increased energy levels, and reduced risk of anemia. The high iron content in lamb spleen makes it an ideal food source for individuals who struggle with iron-deficiency anemia. In addition, lamb spleen is a good source of vitamin B12, which is essential for nerve function and DNA synthesis. Lamb spleen also contains copper, which supports healthy bones and connective tissues.

How to Cook Lamb Spleen

Lamb spleen can be cooked in a variety of ways, including frying, grilling, or braising. To prepare lamb spleen, rinse it under cold water and remove any visible fat or connective tissue. Slice it into small pieces and season it with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you desire. Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil or cooking spray. Cook the lamb spleen for 2-3 minutes on each side or until it's cooked through. Alternatively, you can braise lamb spleen in a flavorful liquid for a tender and juicy result.

Lamb Spleen as a Protein Source

Lamb spleen is an excellent source of protein, which is essential for building and repairing muscles and tissues. In particular, it's a good source of essential amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. A 1-unit serving of lamb spleen braised provides approximately 46 grams of protein, which is more than half of the daily recommended intake for most adults. Adding lamb spleen to your diet can help ensure that you're meeting your daily protein needs.

Lamb Spleen as a Source of Iron

Lamb spleen is a rich source of iron, which is essential for healthy blood function and preventing anemia. The Iron in Lamb Spleen is more easily absorbed by the body compared to non-heme iron sources found in plants. A 1-unit serving of lamb spleen braised provides approximately 12 milligrams of iron, which is more than the daily recommended intake for most adults. Eating lamb spleen on a regular basis can help boost your iron levels and prevent iron-deficiency anemia.

Potential Risks

While lamb spleen provides many health benefits, it's important to consume it in moderation due to its high cholesterol and purine content. People with high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or gout may need to avoid or limit their intake of lamb spleen. In addition, consuming organ meats like lamb spleen may increase the amount of uric acid in the body, which can contribute to gout, a type of arthritis. If you're at risk for gout, it's best to limit your intake of purine-rich foods, including lamb spleen.

How to Incorporate Lamb Spleen

Lamb spleen can be incorporated into a variety of dishes, including stir-fries, stews, and casseroles. It's a versatile ingredient that can add flavor and nutrition to any meal. You can also enjoy lamb spleen on its own as a main dish or as a tasty side dish. For a light and flavorful meal, try pairing lamb spleen with a salad or grilled vegetables.

Lamb Spleen Recipes

1. Lamb Spleen Stir-Fry Ingredients: 1 unit lamb spleen, sliced; 1 bell pepper, sliced; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon cornstarch; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; salt and pepper to taste. Heat a wok or skillet over high heat and add a small amount of oil. Add the lamb spleen and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until browned. Remove the lamb spleen from the pan and set aside. Add the bell pepper and onion to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes. Mix the soy sauce, cornstarch, and sesame oil in a small bowl and pour over the vegetables. Add the lamb spleen back into the pan and stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve hot.