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Bison Heart
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Nutri-ScoreA

Bison Heart

Bison bison

Clinical Encyclopedia

SM
Scientifically reviewed by:Dra. Sofía Méndez (Clinical Nutritionist)
Nutri-Score & Health Summary

Bison Heart provides 143 kcal, 26g of protein, 0g of carbohydrates, and 0g of fiber per 100g. With a Nutri-Score grade 'A', it is a highly recommended option for nutrient density.

Bison heart is a nutrient-dense organ meat that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it an excellent addition to a balanced diet. It is particularly high in B vitamins and essential minerals like iron and zinc.

Also known as:
Bison OffalBison Organ Meat
Scientific NameBison bison
Region of OriginNorth America
Popular Comparisons:
Bison HeartBison HeartVSAbaloneAbaloneBison HeartBison HeartVSAlligator TailAlligator TailBison HeartBison HeartVSAlligator Tail MeatAlligator Tail MeatBison HeartBison HeartVSFried Alligator Tail MeatFried Alligator Tail MeatBison HeartBison HeartVSAlpaca Loin SteakAlpaca Loin SteakBison HeartBison HeartVSSpicy Andouille SausageSpicy Andouille SausageBison HeartBison HeartVSAntelope Loin SteakAntelope Loin SteakBison HeartBison HeartVSBaconBaconBison HeartBison HeartVSApplewood Smoked BaconApplewood Smoked BaconBison HeartBison HeartVSCanadian Back BaconCanadian Back Bacon

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories143 kcal
Water
75%
Fiber0g
Total30.0g
Protein
26g(87%)
Fats
4g(13%)
Carbohydrates
0g(0%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin B129.8 µg (408%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.5 mg (29%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Iron3.5 mg (19%)
Zinc4 mg (36%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

✓Rich source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
✓Contains significant amounts of vitamin B12, crucial for red blood cell formation and neurological function.
✓High in iron, which supports oxygen transport in the blood and helps prevent anemia.
✓Provides zinc, important for immune function, wound healing, and DNA synthesis.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!Organ meats can be high in cholesterol; individuals with cholesterol concerns should consume in moderation.
!May contain higher levels of purines, which could affect individuals with gout.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best prepared by slow cooking or braising to enhance tenderness and flavor. Can also be grilled or sautéed, but should be cooked to a safe internal temperature.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose bison heart that is bright red with minimal discoloration. Freshness is key, so look for a firm texture and avoid any off odors.

How to Store

Store in the refrigerator and use within 3 days or freeze for up to 6 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.

Myths vs Realities

MythEating organ meats is unhealthy.
RealityOrgan meats like bison heart are nutrient-dense and can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation.
MythAll organ meats are high in toxins.
RealityWhile some organ meats can accumulate toxins, bison heart is generally safe when sourced from healthy animals.
MythYou can't cook organ meats like regular meat.
RealityOrgan meats can be cooked in various ways, including grilling, braising, and slow cooking, just like muscle meats.

Healthy Recipes

Bison Heart Tacos with Avocado Salsa

These flavorful tacos feature marinated bison heart grilled to perfection and topped with a fresh avocado salsa for a healthy twist on a classic dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb bison heart, cleaned and diced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1 tomato, diced
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 8 corn tortillas
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add bison heart and marinate for 30 minutes.
  2. 2. Grill the marinated bison heart for 5-7 minutes until cooked through.
  3. 3. Prepare avocado salsa by combining avocado, tomato, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Serve bison heart in tortillas topped with salsa.

Bison Heart Stir-Fry with Vegetables

This quick and nutritious stir-fry combines tender bison heart with colorful vegetables, making it a perfect weeknight meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb bison heart, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups mixed bell peppers, sliced
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 inch ginger, grated
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds
  • Cooked brown rice for serving
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger, sauté for 1 minute.
  2. 2. Add bison heart slices and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Toss in bell peppers and broccoli, stir-frying for another 5 minutes.
  3. 3. Stir in soy sauce and sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving over brown rice.

Bison Heart and Quinoa Salad

A hearty salad featuring protein-rich bison heart and nutritious quinoa, tossed with fresh vegetables and a zesty dressing.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb bison heart, cooked and diced
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, bison heart, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and feta cheese.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, red wine vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Drizzle dressing over the salad, toss gently, and serve chilled.

Spicy Bison Heart Chili

This hearty chili is packed with flavor and nutrients, featuring bison heart, beans, and spices for a comforting meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb bison heart, ground
  • 1 can kidney beans, drained
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté onion and garlic until translucent. Add ground bison heart and cook until browned.
  2. 2. Stir in chili powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, kidney beans, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer.
  3. 3. Cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, and season with salt before serving.

Bison Heart and Sweet Potato Hash

A nutritious breakfast hash featuring bison heart and sweet potatoes, perfect for starting your day off right.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb bison heart, diced
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sweet potatoes and onion, cooking until tender, about 10 minutes.
  2. 2. Add diced bison heart and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. 3. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with parsley, and serve warm.

Bison Heart Stuffed Bell Peppers

These vibrant bell peppers are stuffed with a savory mixture of bison heart, rice, and spices, making for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients
  • 4 bell peppers, halved and seeded
  • 1 lb bison heart, cooked and diced
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, mix bison heart, brown rice, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Stuff each bell pepper half with the mixture and place in a baking dish. Top with shredded cheese.
  3. 3. Bake for 25-30 minutes until peppers are tender and cheese is melted.

Herbed Bison Heart Skewers

Grilled skewers of marinated bison heart and vegetables, perfect for a healthy barbecue option.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb bison heart, cut into cubes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, cut into squares
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, balsamic vinegar, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add bison heart cubes and marinate for 1 hour.
  2. 2. Thread bison heart and vegetables onto skewers. Grill over medium heat for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally.
  3. 3. Serve hot with a side of your favorite dipping sauce.

Bison Heart and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms

These savory stuffed mushrooms filled with bison heart and spinach make for a healthy appetizer or snack.

Ingredients
  • 12 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed
  • 1 lb bison heart, cooked and chopped
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a bowl, mix bison heart, spinach, cream cheese, Parmesan, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Stuff each mushroom cap with the mixture and place on a baking sheet.
  3. 3. Bake for 20-25 minutes until mushrooms are tender and filling is golden.

Bison Heart and Lentil Soup

A hearty and nutritious soup featuring bison heart and lentils, perfect for a cozy meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb bison heart, diced
  • 1 cup lentils, rinsed
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  2. 2. Add bison heart, lentils, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
  3. 3. Reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes until lentils are tender.

Bison Heart and Kale Salad with Lemon Dressing

A refreshing salad featuring tender bison heart and nutrient-rich kale, dressed with a zesty lemon vinaigrette.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb bison heart, cooked and sliced
  • 4 cups kale, chopped
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, combine kale, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and sliced bison heart.
  2. 2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Drizzle dressing over the salad, toss well, and serve immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is bison heart safe to eat?

Yes, bison heart is safe to eat when properly sourced and cooked to the appropriate internal temperature.

How do I cook bison heart?

Bison heart can be cooked by braising, grilling, or slow cooking. It's best to marinate it to enhance flavor.

What are the nutritional benefits of bison heart?

Bison heart is rich in protein, vitamin B12, iron, and zinc, making it a nutrient-dense food choice.

Can I eat bison heart raw?

It is not recommended to eat bison heart raw due to the risk of foodborne illness.

How does bison heart compare to beef heart?

Bison heart is generally leaner and has a richer flavor compared to beef heart.

Where can I buy bison heart?

Bison heart can be found at specialty butcher shops, farmers' markets, or online meat suppliers.

How should I store bison heart?

Store bison heart in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze it for longer storage.

Is bison heart high in cholesterol?

Yes, like most organ meats, bison heart is high in cholesterol and should be consumed in moderation.

Related Superfoods
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Comparisons
Bison Heart vs Abalone Bison Heart vs Alligator Tail Bison Heart vs Alligator Tail Meat
Nutrients
Protein in Bison Heart Calories in Bison Heart Vitamin-c in Bison Heart Magnesium in Bison Heart
Featured Guides
Health Benefits of Bison Heart Healthy Recipes with Bison Heart
Rankings
Meats high in vitamin-b12 Meats high in protein Meats low in carbohidratos Meats low in índice glucémico