Ostrich produces lean, iron-rich red meat.
Don't be surprised if you find the "other red meat" on the menu of an upscale restaurant or at the local farmers market. As ostrich meat gains popularity, restaurant staff and farmers often compare the flavor, texture and preparation of the uncommon meat to beef, according to the World Ostrich Association. Everyone from health-conscious diners to those with fatty, red meat-loving appetites will enjoy the nutritional benefits of low-calorie, lean ostrich meat.
Nutritional Benefits
Ostrich meat boasts two-thirds less fat than other red meats, according to the American Ostrich Association. The meat also offers more protein, fewer calories and less cholesterol than skinless chicken, skinless turkey, pork or beef. Iron rich ostrich meat serves up 4.9mg of iron for every 100g of cooked lean meat, according to the Ostrich Growers Meat Company.
Versatile Preparation
Butchers rate the tenderness of cuts of ostrich as tender or medium tender. Tender cuts of ostrich taste best grilled to a medium or medium-rare, broiled or fried. Watch the meat closely when you prepare it, as it cooks rapidly and quickly becomes overdone. Cook medium, tender cuts of ostrich in soups, stews or other liquids. The versatile meat can also be roasted, cured, stir-fried or ground.
Safe From Contamination
Unlike chicken and beef, ostrich meat naturally resists harmful bacteria, according to the Canadian Ostrich Association. An ostrich's pH balance opposes contaminants, including E. coli and salmonella. To maintain this critical pH balance, ostrich processors must reduce stress during the transport and slaughter of the birds. The World Ostrich Association explains the ostriches are often transported with sources of food and water, and arrive at the slaughterhouse a day before processing to de-stress from transport.
All Natural Options
Farmers markets, small butcher shops and private online vendors sell ostrich meat. Due to the low demand of ostrich, all natural and organic farming practices are more prevalent among ostrich farmers. When shopping for ostrich, look for free-range birds fed a vegetarian diet free from growth hormones or antibiotics.
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