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Cooked sandhill crane meat served on a plate with vegetables, showcasing its tender and rich texture

Sandhill Crane Meat Guide

Discover the rich flavor of sandhill crane meat, known as the 'ribeye of the sky.' Learn about its history, cooking methods, hunting regulations, and more in this ultimate guide.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Meat
Cuisine American, Game Meat
Calories 210 kcal

Equipment

  • Grill
  • Smoker
  • Pan

Ingredients
  

Sandhill Crane Meat

  • 1 bird Sandhill crane Breast meat preferred for grilling or pan-searing

Seasoning and Marinades

  • 2 tbsp olive oil For marinating
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp salt to taste
  • 1 tbsp fresh rosemary For garnish

Instructions
 

  • Start by marinating the sandhill crane meat. Rub it with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, and salt. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  • Preheat your grill or smoker to medium-high heat. If pan-searing, heat a skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil.
  • Cook the sandhill crane meat for about 5-7 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 140°F for medium-rare. Adjust based on your preference.
  • Remove from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
  • Garnish with fresh rosemary and serve with your favorite side dishes such as roasted root vegetables, wild rice, or mashed potatoes.

Notes

This dish pairs well with a bold red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec to complement the rich flavor of the sandhill crane meat.
Keyword Ethical Hunting, Sandhill Crane, Wild Game