Spleen
The dark red, soft-textured organ of cattle and sheep; an iron-rich organ meat. It is traditionally stuffed or grilled and eaten in moderation.
What Is Spleen?
Spleen is a dark red, long, flat organ from cattle (beef) and small livestock (lamb and sheep). It has a soft, porous texture and a distinct, iron-like flavor; it is used in traditional organ-meat dishes.
Its blood-rich tissue gives it its dark color and rich flavor. In some regions it is split in two and stuffed with ground meat and seasonings; in others, it is grilled or pan-cooked.
Spleen Nutrition
Like other organ meats, spleen contains approximately 105 kcal of energy per 100 grams and is high in protein; its most notable features are its very high iron and B12 content. The values are approximate and based on a similar profile.
How Should Spleen Be Consumed?
Since spleen is organ meat, it should be eaten in moderation and cooked thoroughly; although it is rich in iron, portion size and frequency should be considered.
This information is general; spleen is a food and is not a substitute for medical treatment.
How to Choose Spleen
Good spleen is organ meat that is a vivid dark red, shiny, firm, and has a clean smell. Specimens that have turned gray, fallen apart, or developed an odor have lost their freshness.
- The color should be a vivid dark red
- The texture should be firm and the surface shiny
- It should have a clean smell
How to Store Spleen
Raw spleen spoils very quickly, so keep it in the refrigerator for no more than 1 day and use it promptly; store raw organ meat separately from other foods. It is best to cook it on the day it is purchased.
Using Spleen in the Kitchen
Spleen is most often split in two, stuffed with a seasoned ground-meat mixture, and baked or grilled; it is also chopped and pan-cooked or served on mixed organ-meat platters. It pairs well with garlic, cumin, and pepper.
How to Clean Spleen
Peel away and remove the thin membrane, then rinse it thoroughly with plenty of water; if stuffing it, cut a pocket. Thorough cleaning gives it a cleaner flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should spleen be eaten in moderation?
Since it is organ meat and nutrient-dense, it is recommended in small amounts as part of a balanced diet.
What does spleen taste like?
It has a distinct, iron-like, rich flavor; seasonings and garlic balance that intensity.
What is stuffed spleen?
It is a traditional organ-meat dish from some regions, made by stuffing a spleen split in two with a seasoned ground-meat mixture and cooking it.