Who knows a recipe for squirrel soup?!?!?

When I first heard about squirrel soup, honestly, my reaction was probably similar to many of yours: 'I just can't with this damn squirrel!' But as an adventurous cook always looking to try new things and make the most of what nature provides, I decided to give it a shot. And let me tell you, it was a game-changer! Squirrel meat, when prepared correctly, is lean, flavorful, and incredibly versatile, making it perfect for a comforting soup or a rich stew. Why Consider Squirrel Meat? Beyond the novelty, there are actual benefits to cooking with squirrel. It's a sustainable, free-range protein source, often more accessible to hunters than larger game. Nutritionally, squirrel meat is lean and packed with protein, making it a healthy addition to your diet. Plus, if you're a gardener, turning a pest into a meal can be incredibly satisfying! My Go-To Hearty Squirrel Soup Recipe This recipe aims for a rich, savory broth that tenderizes the squirrel meat beautifully. It's a fantastic way to introduce yourself to cooking wild game. Ingredients: 2-3 dressed squirrels, cut into pieces (about 1-1.5 lbs meat) 2 tbsp olive oil or bacon fat 1 large onion, chopped 2 carrots, chopped 2 celery stalks, chopped 4 cloves garlic, minced 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained 1 cup diced potatoes 1/2 cup wild rice or barley (optional, adds texture and heartiness) 1 tsp dried thyme 1/2 tsp dried rosemary Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste Fresh parsley for garnish Instructions: Brown the Squirrel: In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Season the squirrel pieces with salt and pepper. Brown the squirrel pieces in batches until golden, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside. Sauté Aromatics: Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Combine & Simmer: Return the browned squirrel to the pot. Stir in the broth, diced tomatoes, potatoes, wild rice/barley (if using), thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the squirrel meat is falling off the bone and tender. The longer it simmers, the more flavor develops. Shred & Serve: Remove the squirrel pieces from the pot, let them cool slightly, then shred the meat from the bones. Discard bones. Return the shredded meat to the soup. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Slow Cooker Squirrel Stew Variation For an even more hands-off approach and incredibly tender meat, a slow cooker is your best friend. This method is perfect for a robust squirrel stew. Simply follow the browning and sautéing steps (1 and 2) in a skillet. Then, transfer the browned squirrel, sautéed vegetables, and all remaining ingredients (broth, tomatoes, potatoes, herbs) into your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meat is fork-tender. Shred the meat as above before serving. The longer, slower cooking time truly breaks down the connective tissues, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth squirrel stew. Tips for Cooking Squirrel Cleaning is Key: Ensure your squirrel is properly skinned and eviscerated. Many hunters will soak the cleaned squirrel in saltwater for a few hours or overnight to draw out any blood and reduce gamey flavors, though I find this less necessary for younger squirrels cooked in a rich stock. Tenderizing: Squirrel meat can be tough, especially from older animals. Long, slow cooking methods like simmering in soup or stew, or using a slow cooker, are ideal for tenderizing. Marinating in buttermilk or vinegar for a few hours can also help. Flavor Pairings: Squirrel pairs wonderfully with earthy flavors like root vegetables (carrots, potatoes, parsnips), mushrooms, and hearty herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage. A splash of red wine or a dark beer can also add depth to your broth. Sourcing: Always ensure your squirrel comes from a legal and safe hunting source. Avoid animals that appear sick or lethargic. So, if you're looking for a unique and rewarding culinary adventure, don't dismiss that 'damn squirrel' just yet. Give these recipes a try, and you might just discover your new favorite comfort food!