Goose meat comes from birds belonging to the Anser genus. They are large, feathered, common in Europe, Asia, Africa, North America and South America. Since antiquity, humans have been taking care of different geese species and using their meat and eggs to feed themselves. As in the past, today we use goose feathers to make covers, pillows, clothes and souvenirs. Based on some claims, the goose was actually the first bird domesticated by man. Old records indicate that the Egyptians took care of geese 2000 years BC.
Today, there are all kinds of species in numerous countries, their weight varying between 3.5 lb (1.5 kg) and 13 lb (6 kg). They can be found in the wild or domesticated. Both types are eaten. Tame geese have a greater body mass than wild ones. Another benefit is that tame geese can lay up to 15 eggs annually, while wild ones barely lay 10. Some examples of geese include the greater white-fronted goose, greylag goose, pink-footed goose, bean goose and lesser white-fronted goose.
Composition of Goose Meat
Goose meat is a source of numerous healthy elements such as iron, zinc, copper, manganese, selenium. It also contains potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, sodium and calcium. There is no shortage of vitamins in the food product either. Studies have shown that goose meat contains vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, vitamin B5, vitamin B9, vitamin B12, vitamin C and vitamin PP.
Choosing Goose Meat
You can recognize goose meat by its relatively dark color. It looks similar to duck meat. You can choose meat from a supermarket chain but it is advised to get it directly from the manufacturer because that way the quality of the product is guaranteed. The age of the meat is what matters most. The meat of younger geese is more tender and tasty. When picking out goose meat, take a look at the skin as well. It must not have any bruises. It needs to be dry and uniformly colored throughout. The fat around the meat needs to be clear.
Storage of Goose Meat
If your goose meat is freshly cut and you don't plan on cooking it anytime soon, wrap it in polyethylene foil and put it in the freezer as soon as possible. Frozen birds can be stored this way for 2-3 months but this is not recommended because the taste and nutrition qualities of the meat will change to some degree. Periodic thawing and refreezing of the meat is also not recommended for the same reason. When you intend to use the meat in cooking, it needs to be thawed gradually, again so that it doesn't change its taste.
Cooking Goose Meat
Goose meat is highly common in the cuisines of a whole bunch of nations. It is used in stews, soups, pâtés, baked dishes. It can be boiled, fried, marinated and baked. Normally, geese are baked whole on their own or with a stuffing of rice, carrots, tomatoes, onions, garlic, walnuts, mushrooms, potatoes, peas and others. Of course, a goose can be cut up and made into wonderful steaks, seasoned with soya sauce, garlic, lemon juice, red wine, paprika, black pepper, turmeric, curry and others.
To prepare a goose, you will need plenty of time and patience. It needs to be washed and cleaned well. The actual roasting takes about 2 hours. To make sure that it's fully cooked, stick a skewer in the goose thigh. If it goes through the meat effortlessly, it means it's well cooked. If not, leave the goose to roast some more.
If you would rather roast a stuffed goose, salt it and place it at the lowest element of the oven on its back. Next, smear it with oil. You can cover it with cream if you like. Turn it over during roasting so that it cooks evenly. You may need to put it on a higher element in the oven. While the meat is roasting, it is good to pour the sauce it releases over it periodically. Continue roasting for 2 hours or until a golden crust forms.
Benefits of Goose Meat
The consumption of goose meat is recommended for a number of reasons. The meat contains a high amount of fatty acids. The amino acids found therein are also important for our bodies since they help repair muscle tissue and build up musculature. Amino acids are also involved in the synthesis of enzymes. Our concentration, sleep and even our moods depend on them.
Experts say that goose meat is an absolute must for people who want to eat healthy. It is also recommended in the battle against certain diseases. If you suffer from anemia, you should consume this product regularly since it is a source of minerals that improve blood circulation.
Goose meat is highly prized and not just for its taste. It has been proven to aid digestion, plus it has the capability to rid our body of toxins and is therefore also recommended to eat during lead poisoning. It is a suitable food for kids and adults, since it fortifies the immune system and the body. In addition, eating it stimulates the secretion of bile acids.
