Are Ratites “Red” or “White” Meat?
Although ratites are poultry, the pH of their flesh is similar to beef. Therefore, they are classified as “red” meat. The raw meat is a very dark cherry red. After cooking, the meat looks like beef and the flavor is similar but a little sweeter. What Cooking Methods Can Be Used? The tenderness and texture of farmed ratite meat lends itself to light grilling, pan frying or roasting. However, because ratite meat is so low in fat, care must be taken not to overcook it. Since ratites are classified as red meats, steaks and roasts can be safely cooked to medium rare (145 °F) or to medium (160 °F); ground meat should be cooked to 160 °F. What is the Cost Per Pound? At this time, emu, ostrich and rhea meat are specialty items available in restaurants and some stores. The meat is more expensive than beef, pork, chicken and turkey. However, the price will become more reasonable as the quantity of this meat becomes more widely available.
Although ratites are poultry, the pH of their flesh is similar to beef. Therefore, they are classified as ‘red’ meat. The raw meat is a very dark cherry red. After cooking, the meat looks like beef and the flavour is similar but a little sweeter. What Cooking Methods Can Be Used? The tenderness and texture of farmed ratite meat lends itself to light grilling, pan frying or roasting. However, because ratite meat is so low in fat, care must be taken not to overcook it. Since ratites are classified as red meats, steaks and roasts can be safely cooked to medium rare (145°F) or to medium (160°F); ground meat should be cooked to 160°F. What is the Cost Per Pound? At this time, emu, ostrich and rhea meat are specialty items available in restaurants and some stores. The meat is more expensive than beef, pork, chicken and turkey. However, the price will become more reasonable as the quantity of this meat becomes more widely available.
