Is Ostrich Meat the New Superfood? Experts Weigh In
Ostrich meat is quickly gaining popularity as a healthy and
sustainable alternative to traditional meats like beef and chicken. But what is
ostrich meat, and why are so many people talking about it? In this article,
we'll explore everything you need to know about ostrich meat and its potential
health benefits.
What is Ostrich Meat?
Ostrich meat is a type of red meat that comes from the ostrich, the world's largest bird. This lean meat is considered a healthier alternative to beef and other types of red meat due to its low fat and cholesterol content.
Ostrich meat is often compared to beef in terms of its taste
and texture, but it has a distinct flavor that sets it apart. It is slightly
sweeter and more tender than beef, with a delicate and subtle taste. Some
people describe the flavor as similar to venison or even chicken.
Nutritional Benefits of Ostrich Meat
Ostrich meat is a great source of protein, iron, and other
essential nutrients. It is also low in fat and cholesterol, making it a healthy
alternative to beef and other types of red meat.
One serving of ostrich meat (3.5 ounces) contains
approximately:
- 128
calories
- 26
grams of protein
- 3
grams of fat
- 71
milligrams of cholesterol
In comparison, a serving of beef (3.5 ounces) contains
approximately:
- 250
calories
- 26
grams of protein
- 17
grams of fat
- 75
milligrams of cholesterol
As you can see, ostrich meat is significantly lower in
calories and fat, and slightly lower in cholesterol than beef.
Cooking with Ostrich Meat
Ostrich meat can be cooked in a variety of ways, just like
beef or chicken. It can be grilled, roasted, sautéed, or stir-fried. Due to its
low-fat content, it is important to cook ostrich meat quickly over high heat to
avoid drying it out.
When cooking with ostrich meat, it is important to keep in
mind that it cooks faster than beef due to its low-fat content. It is
recommended to cook ostrich meat to medium-rare or medium doneness for the
best flavor and texture.
Where to Find Ostrich Meat
Ostrich meat can be found at specialty meat markets, health
food stores, and some grocery stores. It is also available for purchase online
from a variety of sources. When purchasing ostrich meat, it is important to
look for high-quality, grass-fed meat from a reputable source.
How to Cook Ostrich Meat
Ostrich meat is a lean and flavorful protein that can be a great addition to any meal. Cooking ostrich meat may seem intimidating at first, but it’s actually quite simple once you know the basics. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to cook ostrich meat.
Choosing the Right Cut
Ostrich meat is a healthy and delicious alternative to
traditional red meats like beef and lamb. However, when it comes to cooking
ostrich, choosing the right cut is essential to achieving the best flavor and
texture. In this article, we will discuss how to choose the right cut of
ostrich meat for your next meal.
Filet:
The ostrich filet is the leanest and most tender cut of
meat, similar to beef tenderloin. It is a great option for those who are
health-conscious and prefer their meat cooked rare to medium-rare. The filet is
best suited for grilling, sautéing, or pan-frying.
Strip Steak:
The ostrich strip steak, also known as the New York cut, is
a boneless cut that is tender and flavorful. It is similar to a beef strip
steak and is best-cooked medium-rare to medium. It can be grilled, sautéed, or
pan-fried.
Ribeye:
The ostrich ribeye is a flavorful and tender cut that is
best suited for grilling or pan-frying. It has more fat content than the filet
or strip steak, which gives it a richer taste. It can be cooked to medium-rare
or medium for best results.
Ground Meat:
Ostrich ground meat is a versatile option that can be used
in a variety of dishes, from burgers to meatloaf to meatballs. It is lean and
high in protein, making it a healthy alternative to beef or pork. When cooking
ground ostrich meat, it is important to use a lower heat setting and not
overcook it, as it can dry out quickly.
Roast:
The ostrich roast is a large, boneless cut that is perfect
for special occasions or family gatherings. It can be cooked in the oven or on
the grill and is best-served medium-rare. It is a flavorful and tender cut that
is sure to impress your guests.
Preparation
Once you’ve chosen your cut, it’s time to prepare the meat.
Ostrich meat is best when cooked rare or medium-rare, so avoid overcooking it.
Before cooking, remove the meat from the refrigerator and let it sit at room
temperature for about 30 minutes. This will help the meat cook more evenly.
Seasoning
Ostrich meat has a mild flavor, so it’s important to season
it properly to bring out its natural taste. A simple salt and pepper rub is a
great way to season ostrich meat. You can also use other seasonings, such as
garlic, rosemary, or thyme, to add flavor to your dish.
Cooking Methods
Ostrich meat is a lean and flavorful protein that can be
cooked using various methods, depending on the cut of meat and personal
preference. Here are some of the most popular cooking methods for ostrich meat:
Grilling:
Grilling is a popular method for cooking ostrich meat. It is a quick and easy way to cook the meat and also gives it a delicious smoky flavor. Here are the steps to follow when grilling ostrich meat:
- Preheat the grill: Preheat the grill to high heat. It is important to make sure that the grill is hot enough to sear the meat and lock in the juices.
- Season the meat: Season the ostrich meat with salt, pepper, and any other herbs and spices you prefer. Ostrich meat is naturally lean, so it is important not to over season it.
- Prepare the grill: Before placing the meat on the grill, make sure that it is clean and well-oiled. This will prevent the meat from sticking to the grill.
- Place the meat on the grill: Place the ostrich meat on the grill and cook for about 3-5 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness of the cut. Do not flip the meat too often, as this can cause it to lose its juices.
- Check the temperature: Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat. Ostrich meat should be cooked to an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C) for medium-rare, 160°F (71°C) for medium, and 170°F (77°C) for well-done.
- Rest the meat: Once the meat has reached the desired temperature, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This will allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more tender and flavorful.
- Serve and enjoy: Slice the ostrich meat against the grain and serve it with your favorite sides. Grilled ostrich meat pairs well with vegetables, salads, and grains.
Grilling is a simple and delicious way to cook ostrich meat.
With the right seasoning and cooking time, you can enjoy a flavorful and
healthy meal in no time
Roasting:
Roasting is another
popular method for cooking ostrich meat, as it allows for the meat to be cooked
evenly and to retain its natural juices. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to
roast ostrich meat:
- Preheat
your oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Season
the meat: Season your ostrich meat with your desired seasonings. A popular
option is to season with salt, pepper, and herbs such as rosemary or
thyme.
- Sear
the meat: Heat a pan on high heat with a tablespoon of oil. Sear the
ostrich meat on all sides until it is browned. This will help to lock in
the juices and give the meat a nice crust.
- Place
the meat in a roasting pan: Place the seared ostrich meat in a roasting
pan. Add any additional herbs or aromatics, such as garlic or onion, to
the pan for extra flavor.
- Roast
the meat: Place the roasting pan with the ostrich meat in the oven and roast
for approximately 20 minutes per pound of meat. Check the temperature of
the meat regularly with a meat thermometer, and remove it from the oven
when it reaches an internal temperature of 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare or 140°F (60°C) for medium.
- Rest
the meat: Remove the ostrich meat from the oven and let it rest for at
least 10 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to
redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a juicier and more
flavorful dish.
- Serve
and enjoy: Once the ostrich meat has rested, slice it against the grain
and serve it with your favorite side dishes. Roasted vegetables, mashed
potatoes, and a salad are great options to pair with roasted ostrich meat.
Roasting is a simple and effective method for cooking
ostrich meat, resulting in a delicious and tender dish that is perfect for a
special occasion or a family dinner
Pan-frying:
Pan-frying ostrich
meat is another great way to cook it. This method is quick and easy, making it
a popular choice for weeknight dinners. Here's how to pan-fry ostrich meat:
- Choose
the right cut: For pan-frying, it's best to choose a tender cut of ostrich
meat, such as the filet or the tenderloin.
- Season
the meat: Season the ostrich meat with salt, pepper, and any other desired
seasonings. You can also marinate the meat beforehand for added flavor.
- Heat
the pan: Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount
of oil or butter. Make sure the pan is hot before adding the meat.
- Add
the meat: Add the seasoned ostrich meat to the pan and cook for 3-4
minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked to your desired level of
doneness. It's important not to overcook the meat, as it can become tough
and dry.
- Rest
the meat: Once the meat is cooked, remove it from the pan and let it rest
for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to
redistribute and keeps the meat tender and juicy.
Pan-frying is a versatile method of cooking ostrich meat that allows you to quickly prepare a delicious and healthy meal. You can serve the pan-fried ostrich meat on its own or pair it with your favorite side dishes for a complete meal.
Slow-cooking:
Slow cooking is another great option for cooking ostrich
meat, as it allows the meat to become tender and juicy while also infusing it
with flavor from a variety of spices and marinades. Here is a step-by-step
guide on how to slow-cook ostrich meat:
- Choose
the right cut: For slow cooking, it's best to choose a tougher cut of
ostrich meat, such as the neck, shank, or shoulder. These cuts benefit
from the low, slow cooking process and become tender and flavorful.
- Marinate
the meat: Marinating the meat before slow cooking can help to tenderize it
and add extra flavor. You can use a store-bought marinade or make your own
using ingredients such as olive oil, garlic, herbs, and spices.
- Brown
the meat: Before slow-cooking, it's a good idea to brown the meat in a pan
to give it a nice crust and seal it in the juices. Heat some oil in a skillet
and cook the meat until it's browned on all sides.
- Add
vegetables and liquid: Place the browned meat in a slow cooker and add
chopped vegetables such as onions, carrots, and celery, along with a
liquid such as broth or wine. The liquid should come about halfway up the
meat.
- Cook
on low heat: Set the slow cooker to low heat and cook the meat for several
hours, depending on the cut and size. As a general rule, you should cook
the meat for 8-10 hours on low heat or 4-5 hours on high heat.
- Check
the meat for doneness: To check if the meat is done, use a meat
thermometer to check the internal temperature. For ostrich meat, the
temperature should be around 160-165°F (71-74°C).
- Let it
rest: Once the meat is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it
rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This will allow the juices to
redistribute throughout the meat and make it more tender and flavorful.
Slow-cooked ostrich meat is a delicious and nutritious
option that can be enjoyed on its own or used in a variety of dishes such as
stews, soups, and casseroles. With these simple steps, you can create a tender
and flavorful meal that is sure to impress your family and friends.
Stir-frying:
Stir-frying is a quick and easy method of cooking ostrich
meat that involves high heat and constant stirring. This method is perfect for
cuts like ostrich tenderloin, which cook quickly and benefit from being seared
quickly over high heat. Here are the steps to stir-fry ostrich meat:
- Prepare
the meat: Start by trimming any excess fat from the ostrich meat and
cutting it into small, thin strips. If desired, marinate the meat for
added flavor.
- Prepare
the vegetables: Cut your vegetables into small, thin strips as well.
Popular choices for stir-frying include bell peppers, onions, carrots, and
broccoli.
- Heat
the wok or pan: Heat a wok or large frying pan over high heat until it
starts to smoke. Add a small amount of oil and swirl to coat the pan.
- Cook
the meat: Add the ostrich meat to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes
until browned and cooked through. Remove the meat from the pan and set it
aside.
- Cook
the vegetables: Add the vegetables to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes
until crisp-tender.
- Combine
and serve: Return the ostrich meat to the pan and stir-fry for an
additional minute to combine everything. Serve immediately over rice or
noodles.
Stir-frying is a great option for busy weeknights when you
want a quick and healthy meal. Plus, ostrich meat is a lean protein that pairs
well with a variety of vegetables, making it a versatile ingredient for
stir-fry dishes.
When cooking ostrich meat, it's important to remember that
it cooks faster than other meats due to its low-fat content. Be sure to monitor
the cooking time and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. The internal
temperature of the meat should reach 130-135°F for rare, 140-145°F for
medium-rare, and 150-155°F for medium. Avoid overcooking ostrich meat, as it
can become tough and dry.
Health Benefits of
Ostrich Meat
Ostrich meat has gained popularity in recent years as a
healthy alternative to other meats like beef and pork. Here are some of the
health benefits of ostrich meat:
- Low in
Fat Ostrich meat is very low in fat, with only about 2 grams of fat per
100-gram serving. This is much lower than other meats like beef or pork,
which can contain up to 20 grams of fat per 100-gram serving. Lower fat
content can help to reduce the risk of heart disease and other health
problems.
- High
in Protein Ostrich meat is high in protein, with about 26 grams of protein
per 100-gram serving. Protein is essential for building and repairing
muscles and tissues, and can also help to regulate blood sugar levels.
- Rich
in Iron Ostrich meat is a good source of iron, which is important for the
production of hemoglobin in red blood cells. Iron helps to transport
oxygen around the body, and a lack of iron can lead to anemia.
- Low in
Cholesterol Ostrich meat is low in cholesterol, with only about 80
milligrams of cholesterol per 100-gram serving. High levels of cholesterol
can increase the risk of heart disease, so choosing low-cholesterol meats
like ostrich can be beneficial for heart health.
- Gluten-free
Ostrich meat is naturally gluten-free, which makes it a good choice for
people who are sensitive to gluten or who have celiac disease.
- High
in B Vitamins Ostrich meat is a good source of B vitamins, including
vitamin B12 and niacin. These vitamins are important for energy production
and can help to support a healthy nervous system.
Overall, ostrich meat is a healthy choice for those who want to enjoy meat without the high levels of fat and cholesterol found in other meats. It is important to choose lean cuts and to cook ostrich meat properly to maximize its health benefits.
Is Ostrich Meat Right for You?
While ostrich meat offers many potential health benefits, it
may not be the right choice for everyone. Some people may be allergic to
ostrich meat, and others may not enjoy the taste or texture. It is always
important to consult with a healthcare professional before making any major
changes to your diet.
In conclusion, ostrich meat is a lean and healthy alternative to traditional meats that offers a variety of potential health benefits. If you're looking for sustainable and nutritious food that is easy to cook and delicious to eat, then ostrich meat may be the perfect choice for you.
Enjoyable Facts
The Bird
- Ostrich has extremely good eyesight and can see in color.
- Ostrich can't fly.
- However, they're probably the fastest animal on 2 legs.
- They could sprint up to 70km/hour - and they could shake your hand since they have two fingers and 2 toes.
- But at the same time, we don't recommend getting much too close as an ostrich can kill a lion with one swift kick.
- Canadian Ostrich Meat Is supplied by Alberta Although the animal is indigenous to Africa, ostrich thrives in Canada, with most producers located in Alberta.
- These creatures don't mind the winter at all and prefer to be outside the barn even in very cold temperatures.
Ostrich patties
Ostrich patties offer a great replacement for regular hamburger patties, and lots of people think about them as tastier and a lot more interesting than poultry.
An ostrich patty contains twenty-two g of protein, almost half your daily protein allowance, in each serving.
One serving of ground ostrich delivers 84 percent of your daily vitamin B12, fifty-one % of your selenium of yours, and about one-quarter of your daily niacin, vitamin B-6, zinc, and phosphorus.
It contains smaller but significant levels of thiamin, iron, pantothenic acid, riboflavin, copper, and potassium.
preparing an ostrich meat dish
Ingredients:
- Kilograms
of ostrich meat, sliced into long strips
- 2
cloves of garlic, mashed
- 4
tablespoons of vegetable oil
- Juice
of 1 large onion
- 1
tablespoon of finely chopped ginger
- 3
tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1
teaspoon of salt
- 2
teaspoons of black pepper
- 1
tablespoon of meat spices
How to Prepare:
- In a
deep bowl, prepare the marinade by mixing the mashed garlic and soy sauce
together.
- Add
the onion juice and ginger to the bowl and mix well.
- Next,
add the chopped ginger, vegetable oil, salt, black pepper, and meat spices
to the marinade mixture and stir well until all ingredients are combined.
- Add
the marinade to the sliced ostrich steaks and mix well, ensuring that each
piece is covered in the marinade.
- Cover
the bowl and refrigerate for at least two hours to allow the flavors to
meld.
- Once
marinated, grill the ostrich steaks on a large skillet or electric grill
until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
Enjoy your flavorful and healthy ostrich meat dish!
You can find out more about it
Is Ostrich beef healthier than beef?
Ostrich is much healthier than other meat. Health24 stories that ostrich meat has below 2% fat per 100g of meat, 0,062g cholesterol per 100g of meat, and contains 20,5% protein per 100g of meat - making it far more appealing than 0,241g cholesterol per 100g of beef.
What type of meat is an ostrich?
Poultry Ostrich beef is classified as poultry
and it is nutritionally like poultry. However, it is similar to "red" to "white" meat, similar to beef in color,
texture, and then flavor. Just like beef, ostrich gets its red color from
myoglobin, a protein in muscle tissue that turns red when subjected to oxygen.
Can you eat ostrich meat rarely?
It is best eaten rare to medium-rare, which requires around 2 to three minutes of cooking on each side. A marinade-like which Aldi's ostrich comes pre-slathered - is generally the best to always keep the meat moist, thus you don't find yourself chewing your personal mouth off.
Precisely why is ostrich meat very expensive?
Ostrich meat, for the moment, is pricey, mainly because of the increased demand from the few farms merely there are... Ground ostrich beef is more affordable - Alex offers it for $85 per 5 pounds (that's seventeen dollars per pound).
What nation eats ostrich?
South Africa
Where's the ostrich?
McCoy wants to alter that. He turned into a true believer while residing in South Africa where eating ostrich is typical.
Precisely why is ostrich meat considered the healthiest poultry meat?
Now, ostrich beef is created as an awesome red meat since it is characterized by high polyunsaturated fatty acid contents, minimal saturated fatty acid content, and decreased cholesterol levels compared with white meats, such as beef while tasting much like lean beef.
you can write 15 Nutrient-Dense Foods to Add to Your Diet
reference
1-The chemical composition of ostrich meat - Agris - FAO
2- How long are ostrich legs - The Contrabass Flute
3- How to Cook Ostrich" by the Gourmet Food Store website:
https://www.gourmetfoodstore.com/ostrich-steaks-113233