5 Surprising Rabbit Meat Benefits & How You Can Eat More Of It!
In many homes, rabbit meat is not a common meat on the dinner table like chicken, beef, or pork. But here are five surprising rabbit meat benefits that will make YOU want to eat more rabbit. Plus check out my complete beginner’s guide and learn how to raise your own meat rabbits, even in a small backyard!
1. Rabbit meat is high in protein.
Rabbit meat is surprisingly high in protein, even higher than chicken or beef. Rabbit meat is about 21% protein per its weight, which is higher than chicken. One pound of rabbit meat is an estimated 99 g of protein. If you are looking to pack a protein punch in your diet, rabbit meat is the way to go!
2. Rabbit meat is low in fat and calories.
While rabbit meat is high in protein, it is also an exceptionally lean meat, containing very little fat. Because rabbit meat is low in fat, it is also low in calories. It is estimated that while 1 lb of meat is 99 g of protein, it is only 517 calories, according to Eat This Much. If you are looking to reduce fat in your diet while increasing your protein intake, rabbit meat is a great food choice.
3. Rabbit meat contains high potassium.
Scientists have studied rabbit meat and found that it is high in potassium and low in sodium, compared to other meats. A great combination for those managing high blood pressure. Potassium is an important mineral because it strengthens bones, protects kidney’s from kidney stones, relaxes the blood vessel walls for better blood flow, and supports muscle and nerve function.
4. Rabbit meat contains Vitamin A.
Vitamin A is essential for health in the body. It boosts the immune system to fight off disease by supporting white blood cell production, as well as, promotes new cell growth. Vitamin A also supports healthy vision by keeping your corneas moist and retinas create pigment for seeing in low light, skin by stimulating collagen, and teeth. It also supports healthy reproduction systems.
5. Rabbit meat contains B12 and Vitamin C
B12 and Vitamin C are important vitamins to support healthy iron levels. B12 helps the body to produce healthy red blood cells while Vitamin C allows the body to absorb iron. Studies also show the B12 support healthy nerves and nervous system as well as brain health and memory skills. During pregnancy, B12 is an essential nutrient to help baby develop properly, especially early on in the pregnancy. Vitamin C boosts the immune system, produces collagen to fight against skin damage and aging, as well as promote bone repair.
How to Raise Meat Rabbits
Did you know you could actually raise your OWN meat rabbits in your backyard?!
If you are looking to slowly become more self-reliant and take control of some of your food sources, meat rabbits are a great place to start!
Meat rabbits are quiet, do not require a lot of space, breed frequently, and are easy to process (even for beginners). The meat is tender and mild and can replace chicken in your daily diet. Meat rabbits are a great meat source that can be raised in a small, urban backyard. Find out how to get started with meat rabbits and enjoy a steady diet of rabbit meat and its benefits!
Learn more: Raising Meat Rabbits for Beginners (A Complete Guide)
How to Cook Rabbit Meat
There are many ways to prepare rabbit meat that are simple and delicious! Rabbit meat can be cooked whole, deboned and cooked separately, simmered slowly to make a nutritious broth and shred the meat, and more! Here are a few ways to cook rabbit meat:
- Whole Roasted Rabbit
- Soups
- Pot Pie
- Shredded in pasta dishes
- Marinated and grilled
- Ground rabbit meat sausage
Rabbit meat is easy to process, debone, and prepare to cook in your kitchen. There are many delicious recipes that are perfect for tender rabbit meat.
The rabbit meat benefits are undeniable! If you are looking for meat that is lean, full of protein, vitamins, and minerals, rabbit meat is the best meat to add to your balanced diet!
