Wild Game Meat: A Comprehensive Guide to Types, Cooking, and Nutrition

by Joost Nusselder | Last Updated:  May 30, 2022

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What is wild game? It’s meat from animals that are hunted rather than raised in a farm or ranch. It’s leaner and more flavorful than domesticated meat, and there are many types of wild game, including big game, small game, and waterfowl.

In this article, I’ll explain what makes it different from domesticated meat and how you can cook it.

What is wild game meat

What Does Wild Game Mean?

Wild game refers to any animal hunted for food, recreation, or trophies. The term “game” is often used to describe animals that are hunted, but it can also refer to animals that are raised for meat. In the United States, game animals are defined by the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act, which includes all terrestrial mammals and birds that are not domesticated.

Types of Wild Game

The types of wild game available vary depending on the state or region. Some common types of wild game include:

Regulation of Wild Game Hunting

Wild game hunting is regulated by state and federal laws. In the United States, each state has its own regulations regarding hunting seasons, bag limits, and quotas. These regulations are put in place to ensure that the animal populations are not depleted and that hunting is done in a sustainable manner.

To hunt wild game, individuals must be licensed and follow specific regulations. Hunting licenses are issued by state wildlife agencies, and hunters must pass a hunter safety course before they can obtain a license. In addition, hunters must follow specific rules regarding the type of weapon used, the time of day when hunting is allowed, and the number of animals that can be harvested.

Processing and Storage of Wild Game Meat

Wild game meat is often leaner and more flavorful than domesticated meat. However, it also requires special handling and processing to ensure that it is safe to eat. Here are some tips for processing and storing wild game meat:

  • Field dressing: This involves removing the internal organs and skinning the animal as soon as possible after the harvest.
  • Aging: This involves hanging the meat in a cool, dry place for a period of time to allow the natural enzymes to break down the muscle fibers and tenderize the meat.
  • Freezing: Wild game (here’s the wood to smoke it) meat can be frozen for up to a year if it is properly wrapped and stored in a freezer that maintains a temperature of 0°F or lower.

Wild Game Products

Wild game meat can be prepared and consumed in a variety of ways. Here are some examples of wild game products:

  • Jerky: This is a popular snack made from dried and seasoned meat.
  • Sausage: Wild game meat can be ground and mixed with spices to make sausage.
  • Steaks and roasts: Wild game meat can be cooked in the same way as domesticated meat.
  • Canned meat: Wild game meat can be canned for long-term storage.

Game Meat: A Unique and Affordable Alternative to Traditional Meats

There are many benefits to choosing game meat over traditional meats like beef and pork. Some of the key benefits include:

  • Leaner: Game meat is typically lower in fat than traditional meats, making it a healthier option for those watching their fat intake.
  • Higher in protein: Game meat is a great source of protein, making it a good choice for people looking to increase their protein intake.
  • Affordable: Game meat is often less expensive than traditional meats, making it an affordable alternative for those looking to save money on their grocery bill.
  • Unique flavor: Game meat has a unique flavor that is different from traditional meats, making it a great choice for people looking to try something new.
  • Natural: Game meat is often raised on farms or hunted in the wild, making it a more natural option than traditional meats that are often raised in factory farms.

Preparing and Cooking Game Meat

Game meat requires a slightly different cooking process than traditional meats due to its leaner nature. Here are some tips for preparing and cooking game meat:

  • Ground game meat can be used as a substitute for ground beef in many recipes.
  • Game meat should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure that it is safe to eat.
  • Game meat can be grilled, roasted, or cooked in a slow cooker.
  • Game meat should be marinated before cooking to help tenderize it and add flavor.
  • Game meat pairs well with potatoes, both white and red, and Chinese vegetables.

Where to Find Game Meat

Game meat can be found at specialty stores and some traditional grocery stores. It can also be purchased online from farms that specialize in game meat. While it may be a bit harder to find than traditional meats, game meat is an affordable and unique alternative that is worth trying. Just be sure to properly store and prepare it to ensure that it is safe to eat.

Exploring the Different Types of Wild Game Meat

Wild game meat refers to the meat of animals that are hunted or raised in the wild. These animals are not typically found on farms and are often hunted for sport or for food. Wild game meat is a great source of protein and is generally lower in fat than other types of meat. It can be found in specialty shops and restaurants that offer unique and exotic foods on their menus.

Common North American Game Species

Some of the most common North American game species include:

  • Deer
  • Elk
  • Moose
  • Bison
  • Wild boar
  • Rabbit
  • Squirrel
  • Alligator
  • Snake
  • Bear
  • Birds (pheasant, grouse, quail, wild turkey, wild geese and ducks)

Exploring the Wild Game by Continent and Region

North America is famous for its wild turkey, which is a popular meat consumed during Thanksgiving. However, there are many other types of game meat available in this region, including:

  • Deer
  • Elk
  • Moose
  • Bison
  • Feral hogs

Most of the game meat consumed in North America is taken locally, and it is legal to hunt many species of animals. However, there are some restrictions on the consumption of certain animals, such as the cane toad, which is illegal to eat.

Europe: From Partridge to Wild Boar

Europe is a popular destination for game meat lovers, with a wide variety of meats available. Some of the most common game meats in Europe include:

  • Partridge
  • Pheasant
  • Wild boar
  • Venison
  • Hare

Game meat is a special and popular dish in Europe, with many restaurants offering a range of game meat dishes. The distinction between game and domestic meat is still important in Europe, with many people preferring the taste of wild game.

Africa: From Cape Goose to Wildebeest

Africa is home to a wide variety of game animals, including:

  • Cape goose
  • Francolin
  • Sandgrouse
  • Duck
  • Wildebeest
  • Antelope
  • Buffalo

Game meat is a big part of the diet in many southern African countries, with many people hunting for their own food. However, the status of many game species is under threat, and there are concerns about the sustainability of game hunting in some areas.

Asia: From Quail to Wild Boar

Asia is home to a variety of game animals, including:

  • Quail
  • Pheasant
  • Wild boar
  • Deer
  • Bear

Game meat is a common dish in many parts of Asia, with many people enjoying the taste of wild game. However, there are concerns about the legality of hunting some species, and it is important to ensure that any game meat consumed is taken legally and from a reliable source.

Australia: From Kangaroo to Emu

Australia is home to a variety of game animals, including:

  • Kangaroo
  • Emu
  • Crocodile
  • Wild boar
  • Deer

Game meat is a popular dish in Australia, with many people enjoying the taste of wild game. However, there are concerns about the impact of game hunting on the remaining faunal species, and it is important to ensure that any game meat consumed is taken legally and from a reliable source.

Mastering the Art of Cooking Wild Game

When it comes to cooking wild game, choosing the right cut of meat is crucial. Some cuts are tougher than others, so it’s important to know which ones are best for certain cooking methods. Here are some tips:

  • For roasting: Prime cuts like the eye of the deer or the shoulder of the wild boar are ideal for roasting. Make sure to brown the meat before roasting it in the oven to seal in the juices.
  • For slow cooking: Tougher cuts like the bottomland of the deer or the shoulder of the wild boar are perfect for slow cooking. This method will break down the tough fibers and make the meat tender and juicy.
  • For grilling: Smaller cuts like venison steaks or wild turkey breasts are great for grilling. Make sure to marinate the meat beforehand to add flavor and prevent it from drying out.
  • For bacon-wrapping: Wrap cuts like venison medallions or wild boar tenderloin in bacon before cooking. This will add flavor and keep the meat moist.

Basic Cooking Methods

There are several basic cooking methods that can be used to cook wild game:

  • Roasting: This method involves cooking the meat in the oven at a high heat. It’s ideal for larger cuts of meat like roasts.
  • Slow cooking: This method involves cooking the meat at a low temperature for a long time. It’s ideal for tougher cuts of meat.
  • Grilling: This method involves cooking the meat over an open flame. It’s ideal for smaller cuts of meat.
  • Bacon-wrapping: This method involves wrapping the meat in bacon before cooking. It’s ideal for adding flavor and keeping the meat moist.

Cooking Tips from a Pro Chef

Chef Cottrell, a renowned gamekeeper and pro chef, shares his tips for cooking wild game:

  • Always cook wild game low and slow to keep it tender and juicy.
  • Use oak or other hardwoods when smoking wild game to add flavor.
  • When cooking venison, make sure to slice against the grain to make it more tender.
  • Serve wild game with vegetables that complement the flavor of the meat, like roasted root vegetables or sautéed mushrooms.

Cooking Wild Game on a Camp Fire

Cooking wild game on a campfire can be a fun and delicious experience. Here are some tips:

  • Use a cast iron skillet or Dutch oven to cook the meat.
  • Make sure to build a fire with plenty of heat to cook the meat properly.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meat is cooked to the proper temperature.
  • Serve the cooked meat with a side of campfire-roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conservation View on Cooking Wild Game

Cooking wild game is not only delicious, but it also supports conservation efforts. When hunters hunt and cook wild game, they are helping to manage wildlife populations and preserve natural habitats. By choosing to eat wild game, you’re supporting sustainable and ethical food practices.

Stay Safe While Enjoying Delicious Wild Game

When it comes to wild game, safety should always be a top priority. Here are some basic guidelines to follow when handling and storing wild game:

  • Always clean and prepare your game meat properly. This includes dressing and harvesting the animal in a safe and sanitary manner.
  • Separate your meat cuts into different packages to prevent cross-contamination.
  • Store your wild game meat at the proper temperature to prevent spoilage. This can be done by refrigerating or freezing the meat.
  • When cooking wild game, make sure to follow proper cooking temperatures and times to ensure that harmful bacteria are destroyed.
  • If you obtain your wild game meat from a grocery store or retail location, make sure to check for any alerts or recalls related to the product.
  • If you are hunting locally harvested wild game, make sure to follow all rules and regulations related to hunting and processing the meat.

Preventing Illness and Chronic Wasting Disease

While wild game meat can provide many nutritional benefits, it is important to take steps to prevent illness and chronic wasting disease. Here are some tips to keep in mind:

  • Always handle and store your wild game meat properly to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria.
  • Make sure to cook your wild game meat to the proper temperature to destroy any harmful bacteria.
  • Be aware of any alerts or recalls related to wild game meat products.
  • If you are hunting for wild game, make sure to follow all rules and regulations related to hunting and processing the meat.
  • Be aware of chronic wasting disease and take steps to prevent its spread. This includes properly disposing of carcasses and avoiding the consumption of meat from infected animals.

Delicious Wild Game Recipes

Looking for some delicious ways to prepare your wild game meat? Here are some recipe ideas to try:

  • Grilled venison steaks with a side of roasted vegetables
  • Slow-cooked wild boar stew with root vegetables
  • Pan-seared duck breast with a cherry reduction sauce
  • Grilled elk burgers with avocado and bacon toppings
  • Smoked trout from a nearby stream with a side of wild rice

Remember, with proper care and handling, wild game meat can provide a delicious and nutritious addition to your table.

Wild Game: The Nutritional Powerhouse

When it comes to wild game meat, it’s not just about the taste and the thrill of the hunt. It’s also about the nutritional benefits that come with it. Here are some key nutritional facts to keep in mind:

  • Calories: Depending on the type of meat, the calorie count can vary. For example, a 3-ounce serving of antelope has around 93 calories, while the same serving size of venison has around 134 calories.
  • Total Fat: Wild game meat is generally leaner than domesticated meat. A 3-ounce serving of antelope has only 1.3 grams of fat, while the same serving size of venison has around 3 grams of fat.
  • Protein: Wild game meat is a great source of protein. A 3-ounce serving of antelope has around 22 grams of protein, while the same serving size of venison has around 23 grams of protein.
  • Cholesterol: Wild game meat is generally lower in cholesterol than domesticated meat. A 3-ounce serving of antelope has around 60 milligrams of cholesterol, while the same serving size of venison has around 70 milligrams of cholesterol.

Portion Control and Safety

While wild game meat is a great source of nutrition, it’s important to keep portion control and safety in mind. Here are some tips:

  • Portion Control: A serving size of wild game meat is generally 3-4 ounces. It’s important to keep portion sizes in check to avoid overeating.
  • Food Safety: Wild game meat can carry bacteria and parasites that can cause illness. It’s important to follow proper food safety guidelines when handling and cooking wild game meat. This includes cooking meat to the proper temperature, using separate cutting boards for meat and vegetables, and washing hands and surfaces thoroughly.
  • Pressure Canning: If you have a large collection of wild game meat, pressure canning is a great way to preserve it. This method involves canning meat in a pressure canner at a high temperature to kill bacteria and preserve the meat. Contact your local county extension office or a nutrition educator for more information on pressure canning.

Conclusion

So that’s what wild game is – animals hunted for food, recreation, and trophies. You can find them in the wild, but some are raised on farms. 

Now that you know the ins and outs of wild game, you can make the most of it. So go on, give it a try!

Joost Nusselder, the founder of Lakeside Smokers is a content marketer, dad and loves trying out new food with BBQ Smoking (& Japanese food!) at the heart of his passion, and together with his team he's been creating in-depth blog articles since 2016 to help loyal readers with recipes and cooking tips.