We have all heard the news touting the new category of nutrient dense foods that have been labeled superfoods by the medical community. Some of these items like soy, whole grains, dark chocolate, omega 3 fatty fish and blueberries have been found to possess anti-inflammatory properties. This is important to know, because recent research suggests that inflammation is linked to the development of many chronic diseases, including cancer and diabetes. One of the newer items in this superfood category is bison meat. Bison (also known as buffalo), is a healthy alternative to traditional beef. It is nutritionally higher in protein with fewer calories and less fat than even chicken or fish. Comparative studies have shown that bison is also higher in protein and iron than regular beef, as well as some of the essential fatty acids necessary for our well being…so that means, a little will fill you up faster. ..great to know if you are watching your calories! Bison are naturally organic, since they spend their lives in open pastures and are not subjected to questionable drugs, chemicals or hormones, like other livestock.
Before trying it, I was a little skeptical at first. I was concerned about the taste (would it be too gamey?) and wondered if I could actually switch out the beef in all of my recipes to bison. I am glad to say that in this past year, I have sautéed it, stewed it, made it into a meat sauce for pasta, used it in burgers, eaten it as a hot dog and have even tried many of the different and delicious cuts of meat currently available. There is one major difference between bison and beef…you need to keep in mind that the lower fat content in bison can dry the meat out and result in a mealy texture if cooked over a long period of time. Because it is higher in vitamins and minerals than regular beef, there is a slightly gamey taste if you eat it as a steak, and is a little reminiscent of aged beef, but nothing that will prevent you from trying it again. This product is something you need to cook fairly quickly for it to stay moist and juicy…so for a great steak, sear the steak in a skillet on a moderately high flame, then finish it under a hot broiler for a delicious result. Because of the low fat content, make sure to season it afterwards NOT before cooking. In the Severna park area, you can find Bison meat in Annapolis at My Butcher & More and The Butcher’s Block and at Victoria’s Fancy Foods in Severna Park. So, what are you waiting for…go ahead and try it!
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