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Single Shot
08-05-2007, 11:12 AM
I posted ten squirrel recipes today.

These small fur-bearing animals have scent glands in the small of the back and under the forelegs and the thighs. These should be removed without cutting into them. The fat on the squirrel is usually very spare and most people do not object to its flavor or odor. Squirrel may be cooked successfully by all good recipes for chicken except that fat should be added to give the necessary rich flavor. Young tender squirrels can be fried, broiled, and roasted; older squirrels need to be simmered, fricasseed, or braised. Tasty squirrel meat is medium red in color, tender, and has a pleasing flavor. There is little gamey taste and only the oldest and toughest need parboiling.

Squirrel Pot Pie


2 dressed squirrels (2 - 2 1/2 lbs.)
2 1/2 cups water
1 1/2 tsp. salt
2 tbsp. butter
Dash of black pepper
Rolled dumplings
Parsley

This is an excellent way to cook old squirrels which are too tough for frying. Wipe thoroughly with a damp cloth and remove all hair. Remove any shot and scent glands. Wash well inside and out with warm water. Cut into serving pieces. Put squirrel into a kettle; add water and salt; heat to boiling. Reduce heat; cover tightly and simmer until very tender (2-3 hours depending on age of animal). The meat should be almost ready to fall from the bones.

Add pepper and butter. Increase the heat until liquid boils. Lay the rolled dumplings over the top of squirrel; cover tightly and cook for 12-15 minutes. Do not lift cover during cooking. Place squirrel in a hot plate and arrange dumplings around the edge. Cooking the dumplings in the liquid should thicken the gravy to just the right consistency. Pour gravy over squirrel and dumplings. A little fresh chopped parsley may be sprinkled over the top for garnish. 4 servings.


:castmine: