Slow Cooker Squirrel and Veggies: A Hearty and Delicious Wild Game Recipe

Squirrel, often overlooked, is a surprisingly flavorful and sustainable source of protein. When slow-cooked with the right blend of vegetables and seasonings, it transforms into a tender and satisfying meal. This recipe for slow cooker squirrel and veggies is perfect for a cozy autumn evening or a hearty winter dinner. It’s a simple, set-it-and-forget-it method that yields incredibly flavorful results.

## Why Slow Cook Squirrel?

Squirrel can be tough if not cooked properly. The slow cooker provides the low and slow cooking environment needed to break down the connective tissues, resulting in incredibly tender meat. This method also allows the flavors of the vegetables and seasonings to meld together beautifully, creating a rich and savory broth.

## Ingredients You’ll Need:

* **Squirrel:** 2-4 squirrels, skinned and cleaned. The number will depend on the size of the squirrels and the number of people you are feeding. Younger squirrels tend to be more tender.
* **Vegetables:**
* 2 cups chopped carrots
* 2 cups chopped celery
* 1 large onion, chopped
* 2 cups chopped potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work well)
* 1 cup chopped mushrooms (optional, but adds a lovely earthy flavor)
* 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned, drained)
* 1/2 cup chopped parsnips (optional, for extra sweetness)
* **Broth:** 4 cups beef broth (chicken or vegetable broth can also be used)
* **Seasonings:**
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
* 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
* 1 bay leaf
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional, for extra depth of flavor)
* 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, to help tenderize the meat)
* **Thickening Agent (optional):**
* 2 tablespoons cornstarch
* 2 tablespoons cold water

## Step-by-Step Instructions:

**Preparation is Key:**

1. **Prepare the Squirrel:** Rinse the skinned and cleaned squirrels thoroughly under cold water. Pat them dry with paper towels. This helps to remove any lingering blood or debris.
2. **Brown the Squirrel (Optional but Recommended):** While not strictly necessary, browning the squirrel before slow cooking adds a depth of flavor and color to the final dish. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the squirrels generously with salt and pepper. Brown them on all sides, about 3-5 minutes per side, until nicely browned. Remove the squirrels from the skillet and set aside. If you skip this step, you can add the raw squirrel directly to the slow cooker, but the flavor will be slightly less intense.
3. **Sauté the Aromatics (Optional but Recommended):** In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté over medium heat until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step helps to develop the flavors of the vegetables and create a flavorful base for the dish.

**Building the Slow Cooker Meal:**

4. **Layer the Ingredients:** In the bottom of the slow cooker, layer the potatoes, mushrooms (if using), and parsnips (if using). This creates a bed for the squirrel and prevents it from sticking to the bottom of the slow cooker.
5. **Add the Squirrel:** Place the browned (or raw) squirrels on top of the vegetables.
6. **Pour in the Broth:** Pour the beef broth over the squirrels and vegetables. Make sure the liquid covers most of the ingredients. If needed, add a little more broth or water to ensure adequate coverage.
7. **Add the Seasonings:** Sprinkle the dried thyme, rosemary, and sage over the mixture. Add the bay leaf, Worcestershire sauce (if using), and apple cider vinegar (if using). Season generously with salt and pepper to taste.

**Slow Cooking to Perfection:**

8. **Cook on Low:** Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or until the squirrel is very tender and the meat easily pulls away from the bones. The exact cooking time will depend on the size of the squirrels and the specific slow cooker. Check the squirrel for tenderness after 6 hours and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
9. **Remove the Squirrel:** Carefully remove the squirrels from the slow cooker and set them aside to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, shred the meat from the bones, discarding the bones and any tough pieces.
10. **Add the Corn:** Add the corn kernels to the slow cooker and stir to combine. Let the corn cook in the residual heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

**Thickening the Broth (Optional):**

11. **Make a Slurry:** In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. This creates a slurry that will thicken the broth.
12. **Thicken the Broth:** Pour the cornstarch slurry into the slow cooker and stir to combine. Cook on high for 15-20 minutes, or until the broth has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent lumps from forming.

**Final Touches and Serving:**

13. **Return the Squirrel Meat:** Return the shredded squirrel meat to the slow cooker and stir to combine. Heat through for a few minutes.
14. **Adjust Seasoning:** Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or herbs to taste.
15. **Serve:** Serve the slow cooker squirrel and veggies hot. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired. This dish is delicious served on its own or with a side of crusty bread for soaking up the flavorful broth.

## Tips for Success:

* **Soaking the Squirrel (Optional):** Some people recommend soaking the squirrel in saltwater or buttermilk for a few hours before cooking to help remove any gamey flavor. This is a matter of personal preference.
* **Use Fresh, High-Quality Ingredients:** The better the quality of your ingredients, the better the final dish will taste. Use fresh vegetables and high-quality broth for the best results.
* **Don’t Overcrowd the Slow Cooker:** Make sure the ingredients are not packed too tightly in the slow cooker. This will ensure that everything cooks evenly.
* **Don’t Open the Lid Too Often:** Opening the lid of the slow cooker during cooking releases heat and can prolong the cooking time. Resist the urge to peek too often.
* **Adjust Cooking Time as Needed:** The cooking time will vary depending on your slow cooker and the size of the squirrels. Check for tenderness after 6 hours and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
* **Bone-In vs. Boneless:** While this recipe calls for whole squirrels, you can also use boneless squirrel meat if you prefer. If using boneless meat, reduce the cooking time slightly.
* **Adding Other Vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables to the slow cooker, such as turnips, rutabagas, or sweet potatoes. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
* **Make it Spicy:** For a spicier dish, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño pepper to the slow cooker.
* **Freezing for Later:** This dish freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

## Variations and Add-ins:

* **Creamy Squirrel and Veggies:** For a creamier dish, stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving.
* **Squirrel Stew:** Add more broth and potatoes to create a heartier stew.
* **Squirrel and Dumplings:** Top the slow cooker squirrel and veggies with dumplings during the last hour of cooking for a comforting and classic meal.
* **Wine Braised Squirrel:** Deglaze the pan after browning the squirrel with a 1/2 cup of red wine before adding to the slow cooker for an extra layer of flavor.
* **Spice it Up:** Add a can of diced tomatoes with green chilies for a Southwestern flair.

## Serving Suggestions:

* Serve with crusty bread, cornbread, or biscuits for soaking up the delicious broth.
* Serve over mashed potatoes, rice, or polenta.
* Serve with a side salad or steamed green beans.
* Top with fresh herbs, such as parsley, chives, or dill.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate):

Nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients and quantities used. However, a serving of slow cooker squirrel and veggies is generally a good source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is also relatively low in fat and carbohydrates.

## Conclusion:

This slow cooker squirrel and veggies recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy wild game. The slow cooking process tenderizes the squirrel and allows the flavors of the vegetables and seasonings to meld together beautifully. With its simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. So, next time you have a few squirrels on hand, give this recipe a try – you won’t be disappointed!

Enjoy this hearty and flavorful meal! This dish is a testament to the versatility of squirrel meat and the magic of slow cooking. Happy cooking!

**Keywords:** Slow Cooker, Squirrel, Wild Game, Recipe, Vegetables, Hearty, Delicious, Easy, Cooking, Food