Rabbit Meat

What Is Rabbit Meat?

Rabbit meat is a lean, fine-fibered meat obtained from domestic or wild rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus and relatives). In color and character it's closer to white meat than red, with a mild flavor reminiscent of chicken.

Its low fat content makes it prone to drying out, so it gives a tender, juicy result with stews, roasting, and moist-slow cooking methods. It's common in stews across Mediterranean and European cuisines.

Nutritional Value of Rabbit Meat

100 grams of raw rabbit meat contains about 136 kcal of energy, 20 g of protein, and 5.5 g of fat; it's a source of vitamin B12 and phosphorus. It's a lean, protein-dense meat.

What Are the Benefits of Rabbit Meat?

With its high-quality protein, low fat, and B12 content, rabbit meat can be considered a lean part of a balanced diet.

This information is general; rabbit meat is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment.

How Is Rabbit Meat Selected?

Fresh rabbit meat should be light pink, firm, and moist-glossy in appearance, with a clean smell. Sourcing it from a trusted supplier and cooking it well is important.

• Color should be light pink, meat firm
• Smell should be clean; sour smell means it's stale
• Should be bought from a trusted source

How Is Rabbit Meat Stored?

Fresh rabbit meat keeps for 1–2 days in a sealed container in the coldest part of the fridge; portioned in an airtight bag, it can be kept in the freezer for months. It should be thawed in the refrigerator.

Using Rabbit Meat in the Kitchen

Rabbit meat is mostly used in stews, roasting, and wine- or sauce-based pot dishes; it's cut into pieces and cooked long with vegetables. It pairs well with garlic, thyme, and mustard.

How Is Rabbit Stew Made?

The cut-up meat is seared, then cooked with onion, garlic, and vegetables in a pot with a small amount of liquid, over a long time, until the meat easily separates from the bone.

Why Does Rabbit Meat Dry Out?

Since it has very little fat, cooking it fast at high heat dries the meat out; moist, slow cooking keeps its texture tender.

What Recipes Is Rabbit Meat Used In?

Rabbit stew, roasted rabbit, mustard rabbit, and rabbit stew with vegetables are the best-known uses.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is rabbit meat red meat or white meat?

In color and character it's closer to white meat; being lean and light-colored, it's usually classified in the same group as chicken.

What does rabbit meat taste like?

It has a mild, neutral flavor; similar to chicken but carrying a slightly more intense meaty aroma.

How is rabbit meat made tender?

Cooking long at low heat in a moist environment and sauce-based pot methods keep the meat tender and juicy.

Should rabbit meat be well cooked?

Yes; like all meats, rabbit meat should be cooked thoroughly all the way through.