Home/Meats/Ground Elk Belly
Back to Home
Ground Elk Belly
Meats
Nutri-ScoreA

Ground Elk Belly

Cervus canadensis

Clinical Encyclopedia

Ground elk belly is a rich source of protein and healthy fats, providing essential nutrients while being lower in calories compared to other meats. It is known for its unique flavor and tenderness.

Also known as:
Elk meat (USA)Cervus canadensis (Scientific)
Scientific NameCervus canadensis
Region of OriginNorth America

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories250 kcal
Water
60%
Fiber0g
Total45.0g
Protein
30g(67%)
Fats
15g(33%)
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 b1 (thiamine)0.1 mg (8%)
Vitamin b2 (riboflavin)0.2 mg (15%)
Vitamin b3 (niacin)5 mg (31%)
Vitamin b5 (pantothenic acid)0.5 mg (10%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.4 mg (24%)
Vitamin B122 mcg (83%)
Choline70 mg (13%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DV
Folate: 5 mcgVitamin A: 0 IUVitamin C: 0 mgVitamin D: 0 IUVitamin E: 0 mgVitamin K: 0 mcg

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Iron2.5 mg (14%)
Magnesium20 mg (5%)
Phosphorus200 mg (20%)
Potassium300 mg (6%)
Zinc4 mg (36%)
Copper0.1 mg (11%)
Minerals with less than 2% DV
Calcium: 10 mgManganese: 0 mgSelenium: 0 mcg

Health Benefits

High in protein, ground elk belly supports muscle growth and repair, making it an excellent choice for athletes and active individuals.
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, it promotes heart health and reduces inflammation in the body.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!No clinically significant precautions or contraindications have been documented for this food in standard dietary intake.

How to Prepare & Consume

Ground elk belly can be cooked in various ways, including grilling, sautéing, or slow-cooking. Ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) before consumption.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose ground elk belly that is bright red in color with minimal visible fat. Ensure it is from a reputable source.

How to Store

Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze for longer storage. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.

Medicinal Profile & Bioactive Compounds

Therapeutic properties, key bioactive compounds, and clinical applications of this food.

Medicinal Properties
Rich in protein, Omega-3 fatty acids, Iron
Main Applications
Muscle building
Heart health
Bioactive Compounds
Omega-3 fatty acids

Help reduce inflammation and support cardiovascular health.

How to Consume
Fresh, Cooked, Ground
Did you know?

"Elk meat is considered a leaner alternative to beef and is often sought after for its unique flavor and nutritional benefits."

Myths vs Realities

MythElk meat is gamey and tough.
RealityWhen properly prepared, elk meat is tender and flavorful, often preferred over traditional meats.
MythAll wild game meat is unhealthy.
RealityWild game, including elk, is often leaner and more nutrient-dense than farmed meats.
MythGround elk belly is too fatty.
RealityGround elk belly is leaner than many other ground meats, making it a healthy option.

Healthy Recipes

Spicy Elk Belly Lettuce Wraps

These fresh and spicy lettuce wraps are filled with ground elk belly, vibrant vegetables, and a zesty sauce, making them a perfect low-carb meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground elk belly
  • 1 head of butter lettuce
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1 carrot, shredded
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp sriracha
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, cook the ground elk belly over medium heat until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. 2. Add the diced bell pepper, shredded carrot, and green onions, cooking for an additional 3 minutes.
  3. 3. Stir in soy sauce, sriracha, sesame oil, and lime juice; mix well and serve in lettuce leaves, garnished with cilantro.

Elk Belly Quinoa Bowl

This hearty quinoa bowl features ground elk belly, roasted vegetables, and a creamy avocado dressing for a nutritious and filling meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground elk belly
  • 1 cup quinoa
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 zucchini, diced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 avocado
  • 2 tbsp Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Cook quinoa in vegetable broth according to package instructions.
  2. 2. In a skillet, brown the ground elk belly, then add zucchini and bell pepper, cooking until tender.
  3. 3. Blend avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, salt, and pepper to create the dressing; serve the quinoa topped with elk belly mixture and drizzle with dressing.

Elk Belly Stuffed Bell Peppers

These colorful bell peppers are stuffed with a savory mixture of ground elk belly, rice, and spices, baked to perfection for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients
  • 4 large bell peppers
  • 1 lb ground elk belly
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds.
  2. 2. In a skillet, cook ground elk belly until browned, then mix in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff the bell peppers with the mixture, top with cheese if desired, and bake for 25-30 minutes until peppers are tender.

Elk Belly and Sweet Potato Hash

This flavorful hash combines ground elk belly with sweet potatoes and spices for a nutritious breakfast or brunch option.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground elk belly
  • 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large skillet, cook the ground elk belly until browned; remove and set aside.
  2. 2. In the same skillet, add sweet potatoes, onion, and garlic, cooking until sweet potatoes are tender, about 10-15 minutes.
  3. 3. Return the elk belly to the skillet, season with paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook for an additional 5 minutes. Garnish with parsley before serving.

Elk Belly Zucchini Noodles

A healthy twist on pasta, these zucchini noodles are topped with a savory ground elk belly sauce for a low-carb, nutrient-rich dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground elk belly
  • 4 medium zucchinis, spiralized
  • 1 can crushed tomatoes
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, cook the ground elk belly until browned; add onion and garlic, cooking until soft.
  2. 2. Stir in crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning, simmering for 10 minutes.
  3. 3. Serve the elk sauce over spiralized zucchini noodles, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Elk Belly and Kale Salad

This vibrant salad features sautéed ground elk belly, fresh kale, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette, perfect for a light yet filling meal.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground elk belly
  • 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 skillet, cook the ground elk belly until browned; set aside.
  2. 2. In a large bowl, combine kale, cherry tomatoes, and red onion.
  3. 3. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper; drizzle over the salad and toss. Top with elk belly before serving.

Elk Belly Tacos with Mango Salsa

These delicious tacos are filled with seasoned ground elk belly and topped with a fresh mango salsa for a burst of flavor.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground elk belly
  • 8 corn tortillas
  • 1 mango, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, diced
  • 1 jalapeño, minced
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • Salt and cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, cook ground elk belly with salt until browned.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and salt to create the salsa.
  3. 3. Warm tortillas and fill with elk belly, topping with mango salsa and cilantro.

Elk Belly and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms

These savory stuffed mushrooms are filled with a mixture of ground elk belly and spinach, baked until golden for a healthy appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 12 large portobello mushrooms
  • 1 lb ground elk belly
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove stems from mushrooms and set caps aside.
  2. 2. In a skillet, cook ground elk belly until browned; add spinach and cook until wilted.
  3. 3. Mix in breadcrumbs, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Stuff mushroom caps with the mixture and bake for 20 minutes.

Elk Belly Chili

This hearty chili features ground elk belly, beans, and spices, simmered to perfection for a comforting and nutritious dish.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground elk belly
  • 1 can kidney beans, drained
  • 1 can black beans, drained
  • 1 can diced tomatoes
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large pot, cook ground elk belly until browned; add onion and garlic, cooking until soft.
  2. 2. Stir in beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, salt, and pepper; bring to a simmer.
  3. 3. Cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, and serve hot.

Elk Belly Breakfast Burrito

Start your day right with a protein-packed breakfast burrito filled with ground elk belly, eggs, and fresh veggies.

Ingredients
  • 1 lb ground elk belly
  • 4 large eggs
  • 1/2 cup bell pepper, diced
  • 1/2 cup onion, diced
  • 4 whole wheat tortillas
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, cook ground elk belly until browned; add bell pepper and onion, cooking until soft.
  2. 2. Whisk eggs and pour into the skillet, scrambling until cooked through.
  3. 3. Fill tortillas with the elk mixture, top with avocado, and roll into burritos.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is ground elk belly healthier than beef?

Yes, ground elk belly is generally lower in fat and calories while being higher in protein and omega-3 fatty acids compared to beef.

How should I store ground elk belly?

Store ground elk belly in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or freeze it for longer storage.

Can I use ground elk belly in recipes that call for ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground elk belly can be used in any recipe that requires ground beef, providing a unique flavor.

What is the best way to cook ground elk belly?

The best way to cook ground elk belly is to sauté it over medium heat until fully cooked, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C).

Is ground elk belly safe for pregnant women?

Yes, as long as it is cooked to the appropriate temperature, ground elk belly is safe for pregnant women.

Does ground elk belly contain any allergens?

Ground elk belly is free from common allergens such as gluten, dairy, and nuts.

How does ground elk belly compare nutritionally to turkey?

Ground elk belly is richer in omega-3 fatty acids and iron compared to turkey, making it a nutritious choice.

Can I eat ground elk belly raw?

No, ground elk belly should always be cooked to a safe internal temperature to avoid foodborne illness.