Caribou Meat (Raw) – Nutritional Breakdown
Caribou meat is a lean, nutrient-dense game meat that offers an excellent source of protein while being low in fat and carbohydrates. This wild meat is highly regarded for its tender texture and rich, earthy flavor, making it a popular choice among game meat enthusiasts. It provides an impressive array of essential vitamins and minerals, contributing to a balanced and healthy diet. Here’s a detailed look at the nutritional profile of raw caribou meat:
Nutritional Information (Per 100g Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Energy | 127 kcal |
| Protein | 22.63 g |
| Fat | 3.36 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.29 g |
| Carbohydrates | 0.0 g |
| Fiber | 0.0 g |
| Sugar | 0.0 g |
| Calcium | 17 mg |
| Iron | 4.69 mg |
| Magnesium | 26 mg |
| Phosphorus | 208 mg |
| Potassium | 295 mg |
| Sodium | 57 mg |
| Zinc | 4.0 mg |
| Copper | 0.222 mcg |
| Manganese | 0.078 mg |
| Selenium | 10.2 mcg |
| Vitamin C | 0.0 mg |
| Thiamine (B1) | 0.32 mg |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.72 mg |
| Niacin (B3) | 5.5 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.37 mg |
| Folate | 4.0 mcg |
| Vitamin B12 | 6.31 mcg |
| Vitamin A | 0.0 mcg |
| Vitamin E | 0.0 mg |
| Vitamin D2 | 0.0 mcg |
Allergen Information
Caribou meat is a pure animal protein with no known allergens commonly associated with other meats such as poultry or beef. However, individuals with specific sensitivities to game meats should exercise caution, as rare allergies to wild game exist in some individuals. Caribou meat contains no gluten, dairy, or soy, making it suitable for many special diets, including paleo, ketogenic, and whole30.
Dietary Preferences
- Low Fat: At just 3.36g of total fat per 100g serving, caribou is a lean meat option, ideal for those following low-fat diets.
- High Protein: Caribou provides an excellent source of high-quality protein (22.63g per 100g), making it a great choice for muscle repair and growth, as well as for those on high-protein or fitness-focused diets.
- Zero Carbs: With zero carbohydrates, caribou is an excellent option for individuals following a ketogenic or low-carb diet.
- Iron-Rich: This meat is rich in iron (4.69 mg per 100g), which is important for maintaining healthy blood and preventing anemia.
- No Sugar: As a natural meat product, caribou contains no sugars, making it a suitable choice for those managing blood sugar levels or following a diabetic-friendly diet.
Tips and Advice
- Cooking: Caribou meat, being lean, can dry out if overcooked. It’s best prepared at medium-rare to medium temperatures, ensuring the meat stays juicy and tender. Marinating the meat for a few hours can help enhance its flavor and retain moisture during cooking.
- Flavor Pairings: Caribou’s rich, slightly gamey flavor pairs well with robust herbs like rosemary, thyme, and juniper berries. It also complements earthy vegetables like root vegetables, mushrooms, and hearty greens.
- Storage: Raw caribou should be stored in the refrigerator at or below 40°F (4°C) and used within 1–2 days of purchase. For longer storage, caribou can be frozen for up to 6 months to preserve its quality.
Conclusion
Caribou meat is a unique, nutritious, and versatile protein source that offers a wealth of health benefits. Whether you are looking to diversify your protein intake or explore new flavors in your cooking, caribou is an excellent choice for those seeking a lean, high-protein meat with a rich nutrient profile. Perfect for a variety of culinary applications, caribou meat can be used in stews, roasts, burgers, and even grilled steaks, making it a fantastic addition to any game meat enthusiast’s recipe collection.
