Quail is a delicious and versatile protein that has been gaining popularity in recent years. But where can you buy it?
Many people assume that quail is only available at specialty stores or online, but did you know that you can actually find it at your local grocery store?
In this article, we’ll explore the different types of quail available at grocery stores, where to find them, and some tips for cooking and storing them.
Whether you’re a seasoned quail enthusiast or just curious about trying something new, read on to learn more about this tasty bird and how to incorporate it into your meals.
Can You Buy Quail At The Grocery Store?
Yes, you can buy quail at the grocery store! While it may not be as common as chicken or turkey, many grocery stores now carry quail in their meat section.
Some stores may offer frozen quail, while others may have fresh quail available. It’s important to note that not all grocery stores carry quail, so it’s best to call ahead or check their website to see if they have it in stock.
The Different Types Of Quail Available At Grocery Stores
When it comes to the types of quail available at grocery stores, it’s important to note that the most common variety is the Northern Bobwhite Quail. This breed is popular for hunting and training bird dogs, as well as for its meat. It takes 16 weeks for Northern Bobwhites to become good flight birds and 26 weeks to start reproducing, making them difficult to raise.
In addition to Northern Bobwhite Quail, some grocery stores may also carry Georgia Giant Quail. These quail are larger than wild Bobwhites and can weigh almost a pound at maturity. They are also known to produce more than 100 white eggs annually.
It’s important to note that while some grocery stores may carry quail eggs, they may not have fresh quail meat available. However, if you’re interested in trying quail meat, it’s worth checking with your local butcher or specialty meat store to see if they carry it.
Where To Find Quail In The Grocery Store
If you’re looking for fresh quail, you’ll want to avoid the center aisles of the grocery store. Instead, check the corner of the store near the dairy section. Quail eggs can also be found in this area, but they are typically canned and not fresh.
When you bring fresh quail home, be sure to keep them refrigerated to extend their freshness. It’s also important to note that not all grocery stores carry fresh quail, so it’s best to call ahead or check their website before making a trip.
If you’re unable to find fresh quail, some grocery stores may offer frozen quail instead. These may be found in the meat section or in the freezer aisle. Keep in mind that frozen quail may not be deboned, so they can be a bit challenging to cook.
Tips For Cooking Quail
If you’ve never cooked quail before, it can be a bit intimidating. However, with the right techniques and tips, you can easily prepare this delicious game bird at home. Here are some tips for cooking quail:
1. Choose the right cooking method: Quail can be cooked in a variety of ways, including roasting, grilling, frying, and confit. Each method has its own unique flavor and texture profile, so choose the one that best suits your taste.
2. Season well: Quail has a mild flavor, so it’s important to season it well to bring out its natural taste. Use a combination of herbs and spices to add flavor to the bird.
3. Cook hot and fast: Quail cooks quickly, so it’s important to cook it at a high temperature to ensure that it cooks evenly and retains its moisture. Roasting or grilling at high temperatures is recommended.
4. Baste regularly: To keep the quail moist and flavorful, baste it regularly with olive oil or pan juices while cooking.
5. Check for doneness: Quail is done when the meat is slightly firm to the touch and the juices run clear. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the bird reaches 165°F.
6. Rest before serving: After cooking, let the quail rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
By following these tips, you can cook quail like a pro and enjoy this delicious game bird at home.
How To Store Quail Properly
Once you have purchased your quail, it’s important to store it properly to ensure its freshness and safety for consumption. If you have bought fresh quail, make sure to keep it refrigerated at a temperature of 40°F or below. It’s best to use it within two days of purchase.
If you have bought frozen quail, store it in the freezer at 0°F or below. You can keep it frozen for up to six months. When you’re ready to use it, thaw the quail in the refrigerator for 24 hours before cooking.
It’s important to handle quail with care and follow proper food safety practices. Always wash your hands before and after handling raw meat, and use separate cutting boards and utensils for raw meat and other foods.
Health Benefits Of Eating Quail
Quail meat and eggs offer a variety of health benefits that make them a great addition to your diet. Here are some of the key health benefits of eating quail:
1. Boosts Immune System: Eating quail meat frequently improves the body’s immune system. This boost in immunity kills parasites and bacteria that get into our bodies and thus assists in the protection of the body from foreign infections.
2. Rich in Protein: Quail eggs are a great source of protein, which is important for many processes in your body. Proteins are made up of “building blocks” called amino acids. Your body uses these amino acids to build and repair muscles and bones and to make hormones and enzymes. They can also be used as an energy source.
3. Reduces Risk of Anemia: Anemia is a condition where your body does not have enough red blood cells. This can cause low energy or shortness of breath. Quail eggs help to reduce the risk of anemia because they are iron-rich. Iron is a mineral that the body needs for growth and development. Your body uses iron to make hemoglobin, a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from the lungs to all parts of the body.
4. Balances Cholesterol: There is a large amount of beneficial fatty acids found in quail eggs that can help boost your heart health. In fact, 60% of the fat in quail eggs is made up of the “good” form of cholesterol. This helps your body balance the negative effects of “bad” cholesterol.
5. Cleanses Your Body: Our environment today contains toxins, pollutants, and heavy metals. Eating quail eggs may help get rid of toxins in your bloodstream. One study suggested that quail eggs helped prevent toxicity-caused liver damage in rats. Scientists are hopeful that the same results can be achieved for humans, but studies are still ongoing.
6. Treats Allergies: Quail eggs contain large amounts of ovomucoid protein – a protein that acts as a natural anti-allergenic. It helps the body fight off congestion, inflammation, and other symptoms caused by an allergic reaction.
7. Increases Energy: Quail eggs are a great source of protein which helps give your body a boost of energy, especially when paired with a carbohydrate. This can be an effective alternative to caffeine or other stimulants when combined with a balanced, nutrient-filled diet.
8. Boosts Metabolism: The vitamin B found in quail eggs helps boost your metabolism and support your body’s health. Metabolism is responsible for turning food and drink into energy and building or repairing your body. Quail eggs can help support this bodily process and organ functions.
9. Improves Vision: Quail eggs contain a high amount of vitamin A, which can help prevent cataracts and other vision problems. Vitamin A also helps the heart, lungs, kidneys, and other organs work properly.
Recipes To Try With Quail
If you’ve managed to get your hands on some quail meat, you’re in for a treat! Quail is a versatile and flavorful meat that can be cooked in a variety of ways. Here are some recipes to try with quail:
1. Grilled Quail with Marinade: Combine all marinade ingredients in a food processor. Toss the quails with the marinade and let marinate for 6 hours. Grill the quails whole, about 4 minutes per side. Eat with your hands!
2. Italian Dressing Marinated Quail: Clean quail and marinate them in Italian dressing in a Zip-Loc bag. Start charcoal/gas grill and cook birds at opposite end or between coals, wrapped in bacon and secured with wooden toothpicks. Cook for 7-10 minutes, using a spray bottle of water to extinguish any flare-ups.
3. Quail Eggs: Quail eggs are a unique alternative to chicken eggs and can be cooked in many unique ways. Try boiling them for a quick snack or adding them to salads for an extra protein boost.
4. Ground Quail: Ground quail is a great protein source for dogs, but it can also be used in human recipes. Use it as a substitute for ground beef or turkey in dishes like meatballs or burgers.
5. Threaded Herring and Quail: For a unique twist on surf and turf, try combining threaded herring and quail in a meal. The herring provides Omega 3 fatty acids while the quail offers a rich flavor.
6. Raw Quail Eggs: Raw quail eggs are another great source of protein and nutrients. Add them to smoothies or use them as a topping for salads.
These are just a few ideas to get you started with cooking quail. Experiment with different flavors and cooking methods to find your favorite way to enjoy this delicious bird!
