Ostrich Meat: The Red Meat That’s Better Than Beef

Ever wondered about ostrich meat? This extraordinary red meat is taking the culinary world by storm, and for good reason. Once considered exotic, ostrich meat is now available across the United States and offers incredible health benefits that surpass traditional beef. Unlike chicken or turkey, ostrich meat is classified as red meat due to its high myoglobin content. However, it’s leaner than beef, packed with protein, and surprisingly delicious.

Ostrich Meat Quick Facts

Aspect	Details
Meat Type	Red meat (similar to beef)
Protein per 100g	22-26 grams
Fat Content	2-3% (extremely lean)
Taste	Mild beef-like flavor
Price Range	$15-25 per pound
Cooking Style	Best served medium-rare
Iron Content	3.2mg per 100g
Cholesterol	Lower than chicken

What Is Ostrich Meat?

Ostrich meat comes from the world’s largest flightless bird. Despite being poultry by classification, ostrich meat appears red and tastes remarkably similar to lean beef. The meat primarily comes from the thigh and leg muscles. These powerful muscles give ostrich meat its distinctive red color and rich flavor profile. Most commercial ostrich meat in the US comes from farm-raised birds. These farms follow strict USDA guidelines to ensure quality and safety.

Nutritional Powerhouse: Why Ostrich Meat Beats Beef

High Protein Content

Ostrich meat contains 22-26 grams of protein per 100 grams. That’s comparable to beef but with significantly less fat. This makes ostrich meat perfect for athletes, bodybuilders, and anyone seeking lean protein sources.

Low Fat and Cholesterol

Here’s where ostrich meat truly shines. It contains only 2-3% fat compared to beef’s 15-20%.

Even better, ostrich meat has lower cholesterol levels than chicken. This makes it heart-healthy and diet-friendly.

Rich in Iron

Ostrich meat provides 3.2mg of iron per 100 grams. That’s higher than most red meats and helps prevent anemia. The iron in ostrich meat is heme iron, which your body absorbs more easily than plant-based iron.

B-Vitamin Complex

This red meat is loaded with B-vitamins, especially B12, which supports nerve function and energy production.

What Does Ostrich Meat Taste Like?

Many first-time tasters describe ostrich meat as “beef-like but milder.” The texture is tender and slightly firmer than chicken. Unlike gamey meats like venison, ostrich meat has a clean, mild flavor. It doesn’t have the strong taste you might expect from exotic meat. The meat is naturally tender due to the bird’s active lifestyle. Ostriches run constantly, which develops lean, flavorful muscle.

Where to Buy Ostrich Meat

Online Retailers

Several reputable online sources sell ostrich meat:

Exotic Meat Market: Offers steaks, ground meat, and specialty cuts
D’Artagnan: Premium supplier with nationwide shipping
Fossil Farms: Wide selection of ostrich meat products

These retailers ship frozen ostrich meat directly to your door with proper packaging.

Local Sources

Some high-end butcher shops carry ostrich meat. Call ahead to check availability. Specialty restaurants sometimes sell raw ostrich meat to customers. This is especially common in areas with large ostrich farms. Farmers markets occasionally feature ostrich meat vendors, particularly in agricultural regions.

Grocery Stores

While uncommon, some upscale grocery chains stock ostrich meat in their specialty sections. Whole Foods has been known to carry ostrich meat in select locations. However, availability varies by region.

How to Cook Ostrich Meat Perfectly

Important Cooking Rules

Never overcook ostrich meat. The low fat content means it dries out quickly when overcooked. Always aim for medium-rare to medium doneness. This preserves the meat’s tenderness and flavor.

Grilling Method

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Season ostrich meat with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Grill for 3-4 minutes per side for steaks. The internal temperature should reach 125-130°F for medium-rare. Let the meat rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat.

Pan-Searing Technique

Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil to prevent sticking. Sear ostrich meat for 2-3 minutes per side. The high heat creates a beautiful crust while keeping the interior tender. Finish with butter, herbs, and garlic for extra flavor.

Ground Ostrich Meat

Ground ostrich meat works wonderfully in burgers, meatballs, and pasta sauces. Cook ground ostrich meat just until it loses its red color. Overcooking makes it dry and tough. The lean nature of ground ostrich meat means you might want to add a bit of oil or mix with other ingredients for moisture.

Is Ostrich Meat Sustainable?

Ostrich farming has a smaller environmental footprint than cattle ranching. Ostriches require less water and land per pound of meat produced. These birds also produce less methane than cattle, making ostrich meat more environmentally friendly. Many ostrich farms use sustainable practices, including rotational grazing and minimal antibiotic use.

Health Benefits for Special Diets

Keto-Friendly

The high protein and low carbohydrate content make ostrich meat perfect for ketogenic diets. With virtually no carbs and minimal fat, it fits easily into keto macros.

Heart-Healthy Choice

The low saturated fat content makes ostrich meat heart-healthy compared to traditional red meats.Cardiologists often recommend lean meats like ostrich meat for patients managing cholesterol levels.

Diabetic-Friendly

Ostrich meat won’t spike blood sugar levels, making it safe for diabetics. The high protein content also helps maintain stable blood sugar throughout the day.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is ostrich meat red meat?

Yes, ostrich meat is classified as red meat due to its high myoglobin content. Despite coming from a bird, it looks and tastes like red meat rather than poultry.

Can you eat ostrich meat rare?

While ostrich meat can be eaten medium-rare, eating it completely rare isn’t recommended. Cook to an internal temperature of at least 125°F for safety.

Is ostrich meat healthy?

Absolutely! Ostrich meat is one of the healthiest red meats available. It’s high in protein, low in fat, and contains essential nutrients like iron and B-vitamins.

Where can I buy ostrich meat near me?

Check specialty butcher shops, upscale grocery stores, or order online from retailers like Exotic Meat Market or D’Artagnan. Many online suppliers offer nationwide shipping.

How much does ostrich meat cost?

Expect to pay $15-25 per pound for ostrich meat. While more expensive than beef, many consider it worth the price for its health benefits and unique flavor.

What does ostrich meat taste like?

Ostrich meat tastes similar to lean beef but milder. It’s not gamey like some exotic meats and has a clean, pleasant flavor that most people enjoy.

Can dogs eat ostrich meat?

Yes, ostrich meat is safe and healthy for dogs. Many premium dog foods include ostrich meat as a protein source, especially for dogs with food allergies.

Is ostrich meat good for weight loss?

The high protein and low fat content make ostrich meat excellent for weight loss diets. It helps maintain muscle mass while reducing overall calorie intake.