Buffalo meat is one of the leanest, healthiest types of meat available, and this is because most of the fat is on the outside. Beef contains fat throughout, but buffalo is almost completely fat-free. The fat on outer portions can be easily trimmed away and discarded. It’s no wonder why this exceptionally lean meat is preferred by those who are trying to eat healthier and cut fat from their diets. Besides the amazing health benefits, it’s easy to prepare, and it tastes absolutely delicious.
Buffalo Versus Beef
You’ll notice that raw bison looks somewhat different from beef. It’s darker in color and may look reddish brown in appearance. This is perfectly normal, and it does not mean it’s spoiled. It doesn’t have the marbled appearance of beef, and the lack of fat contributes to the difference in appearance.
Buffalo meat can be substituted for beef in many of your favorite recipes, but it requires a different method of preparation. Once you learn how to prepare bison you’ll be able to enjoy your favorite beef recipes substituted with this lean and tasty meat. Although it’s more expensive than beef, the health benefits are well worth the price.
Keep in mind that overcooked bison will end up the same as overcooked beef – tough and lacking in flavor. Just like beef, it’s better to prepare buffalo until it reaches a medium or medium-rare level of doneness instead of burning it to a crisp. In addition, buffalo meat reaches a level of doneness faster than beef, so keep a close watch on the meat as you prepare it.
Crock Pot Preparation
If you enjoy the convenience of crock pot meals, you can prepare you favorite dishes in the crock pot and substitute beef or pork for bison. This method of preparation is best suited for tougher cuts such as the brisket, shank, chuck roasts, and portions intended for stewing.
Since buffalo meat contains very little fat, add just enough water to cover the bottom of the crock pot. Begin by cooking the meat on high, and once it’s hot, turn the crock pot down to a lower setting. Allow the meat to cook approximately eight hours or until it’s literally falling apart. You’ll be amazed by how tender and delicious your meal is and even more so by how easy it was to prepare.
Grilled Buffalo
A thick juicy buffalo steak will make your mouth water and tempt your taste buds, but when improperly grilled it will seem more like buffalo hide. When grilling buffalo steaks, be sure prepare it at lower temperatures. Lean buffalo meat will burn when grilled over a high flame. Either let charcoals die down considerably, or keep a gas grill on a low setting during preparation. Lean meat is naturally drier, so consider using a marinade, and baste the meat frequently for best results.
Roasts
Never prepare bison in an oven exceeding 275 degrees Fahrenheit. As previously mentioned, buffalo cooks much faster than beef, so roast buffalo for the same amount of time you would prepare a beef roast, but at a lower temperature. It will turn out tender, exceptionally juicy, and delicious every time.
