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Juicy, flavorful, lean ground bison is "trending" among health-conscious foodies. This collection of Healthy Ground Bison Recipes provides inspiration for including this healthy protein option in your weeknight menu rotation. The demand for bison is growing due to increased marketing efforts, its widespread availability, and great nutritional profile. In this post, I will present the pros and cons of bison, and try to anticipate any questions you might have... Bueno?
👩🏻🍳 Tamara Talks - About Bison
I only recently discovered ground bison through my subscription to Imperfect Foods, and it makes a regular appearance on the dinner table at Andersen casa now. We're loving this healthy bison burger, and I'm working on a recipe for ground bison tacos.
Bison is sustainable when it is grass-fed. The grazing habits of bison actually promote a healthy ecosystem. Grass-fed meat tends to be more expensive (whether it's bison or beef), and with the increase in demand, it is important to check the label. Make sure your bison is sustainably raised. Some farmers are starting to raise bison on grain in feed lots.
While bison is has some nutrition advantages over beef, it is still considered to be red meat. We limit red meat to once or twice a month. Consult your physician if red meat is a concern.
Advantages
- ground bison is an excellent source of protein
- bison is a rich source of B vitamins
- it is high in selenium, iron, and zinc
- bison is low in fats and calories
- when grass-fed it is sustainable
- a healthier substitute for beef and lamb
- it has no "gamey" taste
Disadvantages
- bison is very lean and easy to overcook
- bison can be expensive
- it is high in selenium, iron, and zinc
- bison is low in fats and calories
Bison Versus Beef Nutrition Facts
Here are the nutritional differences between 4 ounces (113 grams) of bison and beef:
💭 Tips
Bison is really easy to overcook. An instant read thermometer is helpful. Reducing the flame or cooking temperature slightly may help prevent overcooked bison.
If you prefer "well done" meat, bison may not be your best choice. Ground bison is juicy and flavorful at about 160° internally. Steaks and roasts can be consumed above 145°.
Bison retains some pink color when fully cooked.
❓ FAQ
Treat ground bison like you would ground beef. Store in the refrigerator 1 to 2 days at 40° or below. Store it in the freezer for 3 to 4 months.
There are 3 ways to thaw ground bison: 1. In the refrigerator. 2. In cold water. 3. In the microwave. I never recommend the microwave because it's so easy to have it start cooking, and then it's difficult to use in many recipes.
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🐂 Ground Bison Recipes
We have already enjoyed one of these recipes - the Bison Cheddar Topped Cauliflower Steaks. I'm looking forward to trying them all, but the Cherry Bison Meatballs are calling my name. Keep scrolling for all the healthy and delicious ground bison recipes!
Healthy Ground Bison Recipes
A collection of 8 healthy, simple ground bison recipes to shake up your weeknight dinners a bit...
Lean ground bison provides the foundation of this Healthy Bison Burgers with Hatch Chile. The burger patties are bound with egg and ground corn tortillas, and a puréed onion keeps the meat moist.
Thick cut and hearty cauliflower steaks are topped with melted cheddar and a savory bison, crimini mushroom and leek saute – total comfort food!
Bison meatballs with a sweet twist! These cherry bison meatballs are packed with flavor and so easy to make!
Bison Chili with Black Beans has big flavor and is an easy chili recipe. A fun twist on traditional chili recipes.
This recipe is inspired by Greek flavors of garlic, lemon, and oregano. These flavorful meatballs are very tender thanks to the addition of milk-soaked bread, and they make a great appetizer or main course.
Lean protein packed ground bison stuffed peppers are filled with rice, shredded zucchini, carrots, onion and tomato sauce for a deliciously hearty meal with a melted cheesy topping. A healthier alternative to beef and an easy meal to make!
These delicious bison meatballs are a healthier alternative to ground beef. Super quick and easy to make, they are ready to serve in less than half an hour and can be made ahead of time. Stir them into your favorite marinara sauce and serve over pasta for the most perfect comfort food.
This Ground Bison Veggie Bowl recipe is perfect for paleo and low-carb diets. It’s a grain-free and easy recipe that is so delicious and satisfying. This is a 30-minute meal that you can make on busy weeknights.
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