Opossum Stew
Opossum Stew is a traditional Southern American dish, particularly associated with Appalachian and rural Southern cuisine, where the whole opossum is slow-cooked in a savory broth. The recipe typically features the opossum meat simmered with hearty vegetables like potatoes, onions, and celery, often seasoned with herbs and sometimes a touch of vinegar or tomatoes. It is a rustic, farm-to-table style stew that reflects a history of utilizing all available local game.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Opossum Stew is a high-protein, low-carbohydrate dish, with the opossum meat providing a lean source of protein similar to other game meats. A typical serving offers a good amount of B vitamins, iron, and potassium, with a moderate calorie range of approximately 250-350 kcal per serving, depending on the cut of meat and added vegetables.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 300 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbs | 12 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 2 g |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
| Potassium | 420 mg |
| Iron | 3.5 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 2.8 mcg |
| Niacin (B3) | 6.2 mg |
| Phosphorus | 280 mg |
| Zinc | 4.1 mg |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.5 mg |
| Selenium | 18.5 mcg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, Opossum Stew is a unique example of 'nose-to-tail' eating and historical self-sufficiency in the American South, where opossums were once a common and accessible source of wild game. Nutritionally, opossum meat is surprisingly lean and high in protein, making it a sustainable and nutrient-dense option compared to many domesticated meats.
