Fried Opossum
Fried Opossum is a traditional Southern American dish where the whole animal is typically cleaned, seasoned, and deep-fried or pan-fried until crispy. It is often prepared with a simple coating of flour, salt, and pepper, and sometimes served with gravy. Historically, it was a rural, foraged food in the Appalachian and Southern United States.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This dish is very high in protein and fat, with virtually no carbohydrates. It provides significant amounts of iron, zinc, and B vitamins, particularly B12, but is also high in cholesterol and sodium depending on preparation.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 380 kcal |
| Protein | 28 g |
| Carbs | 2 g |
| Fat | 29 g |
| Fiber | 0 g |
| Sugar | 0 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
| Iron | 4.2 mg |
| Zinc | 5.8 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 12.5 mcg |
| Niacin (B3) | 6.1 mg |
| Phosphorus | 210 mg |
| Selenium | 22 mcg |
| Potassium | 310 mg |
| Cholesterol | 105 mg |
Per 1 serving (approximately 150 g of cooked meat) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, it represents a historical practice of utilizing available wild game, often associated with folklore and folk remedies. Nutritionally, it is a dense source of complete protein and certain minerals, but its consumption has declined due to modern food safety concerns and changing cultural attitudes.
