Squirrel meat is a delicacy in many parts of the world, and cooking it in an Instant Pot is a great way to prepare this lean protein. However, many people are unsure about how long to cook squirrel in an Instant Pot. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide on cooking squirrel in an Instant Pot, including cooking times, recipes, and tips.
Understanding Squirrel Meat
Before we dive into cooking times, it’s essential to understand the characteristics of squirrel meat. Squirrel meat is a lean protein, which means it has less fat compared to other meats. This makes it prone to drying out if overcooked. Squirrel meat is also high in protein and low in calories, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious individuals.
Nutritional Benefits of Squirrel Meat
Squirrel meat is an excellent source of nutrients, including:
- Protein: Squirrel meat is high in protein, making it an excellent choice for those looking to increase their protein intake.
- Iron: Squirrel meat is a rich source of iron, an essential mineral that helps carry oxygen in the blood.
- Zinc: Squirrel meat is a good source of zinc, an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in immune function and wound healing.
- Potassium: Squirrel meat is a good source of potassium, an essential mineral that helps regulate blood pressure.
Cooking Squirrel in Instant Pot: Basic Principles
Cooking squirrel in an Instant Pot is relatively straightforward. Here are some basic principles to keep in mind:
- Use a sufficient amount of liquid: Squirrel meat needs to be cooked in a sufficient amount of liquid to prevent it from drying out. Use at least 1 cup of liquid for every pound of squirrel meat.
- Use a gentle cooking method: Squirrel meat is prone to drying out, so it’s essential to use a gentle cooking method. Use the “meat/stew” or “manual” mode on your Instant Pot to cook the squirrel meat.
- Don’t overcook: Squirrel meat is best cooked when it’s tender but still juicy. Overcooking can make the meat dry and tough.
Cooking Times for Squirrel in Instant Pot
The cooking time for squirrel in an Instant Pot will depend on the size and type of squirrel, as well as the desired level of doneness. Here are some general guidelines for cooking squirrel in an Instant Pot:
| Type of Squirrel | Cooking Time |
| — | — |
| Gray squirrel | 10-15 minutes |
| Fox squirrel | 15-20 minutes |
| Red squirrel | 10-15 minutes |
Note: These cooking times are for a single pound of squirrel meat. Adjust the cooking time accordingly if you’re cooking multiple pounds.
Recipes for Cooking Squirrel in Instant Pot
Here are a few recipes for cooking squirrel in an Instant Pot:
Recipe 1: Simple Squirrel Stew
Ingredients:
- 1 pound squirrel meat
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Press the “saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “hot.”
- Add the chopped onion and cook until it’s translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the squirrel meat, chicken broth, tomato paste, and thyme.
- Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing.”
- Press the “meat/stew” button and set the cooking time to 10 minutes.
- Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
Recipe 2: Squirrel and Mushroom Risotto
Ingredients:
- 1 pound squirrel meat
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup white wine
- 1 tablespoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Press the “saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the pot until it reads “hot.”
- Add the olive oil and cook the chopped onion until it’s translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Add the chicken broth, mixed mushrooms, squirrel meat, white wine, and thyme.
- Close the lid and set the valve to “sealing.”
- Press the “manual” button and set the cooking time to 15 minutes.
- Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
Tips for Cooking Squirrel in Instant Pot
Here are a few tips for cooking squirrel in an Instant Pot:
- Use a meat thermometer: Squirrel meat is best cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meat is cooked to a safe temperature.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot: Cook the squirrel meat in batches if necessary, to prevent overcrowding the pot. This can lead to uneven cooking and a higher risk of foodborne illness.
- Experiment with different seasonings: Squirrel meat can be seasoned with a variety of herbs and spices. Experiment with different seasonings to find the flavor combination you enjoy the most.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Cooking Squirrel in Instant Pot
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when cooking squirrel in an Instant Pot:
- Overcooking: Squirrel meat is prone to drying out, so it’s essential to avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the meat is cooked to a safe temperature.
- Not using enough liquid: Squirrel meat needs to be cooked in a sufficient amount of liquid to prevent it from drying out. Use at least 1 cup of liquid for every pound of squirrel meat.
- Not letting the pressure release naturally: Letting the pressure release naturally can help prevent the meat from becoming tough and dry.
Conclusion
Cooking squirrel in an Instant Pot is a great way to prepare this lean protein. By following the guidelines outlined in this article, you can ensure that your squirrel meat is cooked to perfection. Remember to use a sufficient amount of liquid, cook the meat gently, and avoid overcooking. Experiment with different seasonings and recipes to find the flavor combination you enjoy the most. Happy cooking!
What are the benefits of cooking squirrel in an Instant Pot?
Cooking squirrel in an Instant Pot offers several benefits. For one, it allows for tender and fall-off-the-bone meat with minimal effort. The Instant Pot’s pressure cooking function breaks down the connective tissues in the squirrel’s meat, making it incredibly tender and easy to shred or chop. Additionally, cooking squirrel in an Instant Pot helps to retain the nutrients and flavors of the meat, resulting in a delicious and healthy meal.
Another benefit of cooking squirrel in an Instant Pot is the reduced cooking time. Traditional methods of cooking squirrel, such as stewing or braising, can take several hours to tenderize the meat. In contrast, the Instant Pot can cook squirrel to perfection in under an hour, making it a convenient option for busy hunters and home cooks.
How do I prepare squirrel for cooking in an Instant Pot?
To prepare squirrel for cooking in an Instant Pot, start by cleaning and dressing the animal. Remove any innards, and rinse the squirrel under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Pat the squirrel dry with paper towels, then season with your desired herbs and spices. You can also marinate the squirrel in your favorite sauce or seasoning mixture for added flavor.
Next, cut the squirrel into smaller pieces, such as legs, thighs, and backstraps. This will help the meat cook more evenly and quickly in the Instant Pot. You can also brown the squirrel pieces in a skillet before adding them to the Instant Pot for added flavor and texture.
What is the best cooking liquid to use when cooking squirrel in an Instant Pot?
The best cooking liquid to use when cooking squirrel in an Instant Pot depends on your personal preferences and the desired flavor profile. Some popular options include chicken or beef broth, water, and even beer or wine. You can also add aromatics like onions, carrots, and celery to the cooking liquid for added flavor.
For a more traditional Southern-style squirrel dish, you can use a combination of chicken broth and barbecue sauce. This will give the squirrel a rich, tangy flavor that’s perfect for serving with mashed potatoes or cornbread. Alternatively, you can use a lighter cooking liquid like water or broth for a more delicate flavor.
How long does it take to cook squirrel in an Instant Pot?
The cooking time for squirrel in an Instant Pot will depend on the size and number of squirrels you’re cooking, as well as your desired level of doneness. Generally, it takes around 20-30 minutes to cook squirrel in an Instant Pot, with 10-15 minutes of pressure cooking time and 10-15 minutes of natural release time.
For smaller squirrels or squirrel pieces, you can reduce the cooking time to 15-20 minutes. For larger squirrels or whole squirrels, you may need to increase the cooking time to 30-40 minutes. It’s always a good idea to check the squirrel for tenderness and doneness before serving, and to adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I cook frozen squirrel in an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can cook frozen squirrel in an Instant Pot. In fact, the Instant Pot is a great way to cook frozen squirrel because it allows for even cooking and helps to prevent the meat from becoming tough or dry. To cook frozen squirrel in an Instant Pot, simply add the frozen squirrel pieces to the pot along with your desired cooking liquid and seasonings.
Cooking time may be slightly longer for frozen squirrel, so be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. A good rule of thumb is to add 5-10 minutes to the cooking time for frozen squirrel. This will ensure that the meat is cooked through and tender.
How do I store cooked squirrel in the refrigerator or freezer?
Cooked squirrel can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer for later use. To store cooked squirrel in the refrigerator, allow it to cool completely, then place it in an airtight container and refrigerate at 40°F (4°C) or below. Cooked squirrel will keep in the refrigerator for 3-5 days.
To store cooked squirrel in the freezer, allow it to cool completely, then place it in an airtight container or freezer bag and label with the date. Frozen cooked squirrel will keep for 6-12 months. When you’re ready to eat the squirrel, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or reheat it in the Instant Pot or oven.
Are there any safety concerns when cooking squirrel in an Instant Pot?
As with any wild game meat, there are some safety concerns to be aware of when cooking squirrel in an Instant Pot. Squirrel can carry diseases like tularemia and leptospirosis, so it’s essential to handle the meat safely and cook it to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety.
Additionally, be sure to follow proper food safety guidelines when storing and reheating cooked squirrel. Always reheat cooked squirrel to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) before serving, and discard any leftover squirrel that’s been at room temperature for more than 2 hours.