Home/Meats/Raw Goose Sweetbreads
Back to Home
Raw Goose Sweetbreads
Meats
Nutri-ScoreA

Raw Goose Sweetbreads

Anser anser

Clinical Encyclopedia

SM
Nutri-Score & Health Summary

Raw Goose Sweetbreads provides 153 kcal, 16.5g of protein, 0.5g of carbohydrates, and 0g of fiber per 100g. With a Nutri-Score grade 'A', it is a highly recommended option for nutrient density.

Raw goose sweetbreads are the thymus glands or pancreas of young geese, prized for their delicate texture and rich flavor. They are a source of high-quality protein and essential nutrients.

Also known as:
Goose ThymusGoose Pancreas
Scientific NameAnser anser
Region of OriginEurope

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories153 kcal
Water
75%
Fiber0g
Total27.5g
Protein
16.5g(60%)
Fats
10.5g(38%)
Carbohydrates
0.5g(2%)

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 B122.5 µg (104%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.2 mg (12%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Selenium18 µg (33%)
Phosphorus200 mg (29%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

Rich in protein, supporting muscle growth and repair.
Contains essential vitamins and minerals, particularly B vitamins and selenium, which are vital for metabolic processes.
Low in carbohydrates, making them suitable for low-carb diets.
High in healthy fats, which can provide energy and support cellular health.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!May contain high levels of purines, which can exacerbate gout in susceptible individuals.
!Improper handling or cooking can lead to foodborne illnesses.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best prepared by poaching or sautéing to maintain tenderness. Can be seasoned with herbs and spices for enhanced flavor.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose sweetbreads that are pale in color and firm to the touch. Avoid any that appear discolored or have an off smell.

How to Store

Store raw sweetbreads in the refrigerator and use them within a couple of days. For longer storage, freeze them in an airtight container.

Myths vs Realities

MythSweetbreads are the stomach of the animal.
RealitySweetbreads are actually the thymus gland or pancreas, not the stomach.
MythSweetbreads are unhealthy due to their fat content.
RealityWhile they are high in fat, they also provide essential nutrients and can be part of a balanced diet.
MythSweetbreads are difficult to prepare.
RealityWith proper cleaning and cooking techniques, sweetbreads can be easy and rewarding to prepare.

Healthy Recipes

Citrus-Infused Goose Sweetbreads Salad

A refreshing salad featuring lightly poached goose sweetbreads, vibrant citrus segments, and a zesty vinaigrette, perfect for a light yet satisfying meal.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw goose sweetbreads
  • 1 orange, segmented
  • 1 grapefruit, segmented
  • 2 cups mixed greens
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Poach the goose sweetbreads in simmering water for 10 minutes, then cool and slice.
  2. 2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Toss mixed greens, citrus segments, and sweetbreads with the dressing and serve immediately.

Spicy Goose Sweetbreads Tacos

These tacos feature marinated goose sweetbreads grilled to perfection and served in corn tortillas with fresh salsa and avocado.

Ingredients
  • 250g raw goose sweetbreads
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 4 corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1 cup pico de gallo
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Marinate the sweetbreads in lime juice and chili powder for 30 minutes.
  2. 2. Grill the sweetbreads over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until cooked through.
  3. 3. Assemble tacos by placing sweetbreads in tortillas, topping with pico de gallo and avocado, and garnish with cilantro.

Herb-Crusted Goose Sweetbreads with Quinoa

A wholesome dish featuring herb-crusted goose sweetbreads served over a bed of fluffy quinoa and steamed vegetables.

Ingredients
  • 300g raw goose sweetbreads
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup mixed steamed vegetables (broccoli, carrots, bell peppers)
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). Season sweetbreads with salt, pepper, parsley, and thyme.
  2. 2. Bake sweetbreads for 15-20 minutes until golden and cooked through.
  3. 3. Serve sweetbreads over quinoa with steamed vegetables on the side.

Goose Sweetbreads with Mushroom Risotto

Creamy risotto paired with sautéed goose sweetbreads and earthy mushrooms, creating a rich and satisfying dish.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw goose sweetbreads
  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a saucepan, heat vegetable broth and keep warm.
  2. 2. In a separate pan, sauté onion and mushrooms in olive oil until soft, then add Arborio rice and stir for 2 minutes.
  3. 3. Gradually add broth, stirring until absorbed. Cook until creamy, then add cooked sweetbreads, season, and serve.

Goose Sweetbreads and Asparagus Stir-Fry

A quick and healthy stir-fry featuring tender goose sweetbreads and crisp asparagus, tossed in a light soy sauce.

Ingredients
  • 250g raw goose sweetbreads, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 200g asparagus, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
Instructions
  1. 1. Heat sesame oil in a pan over medium heat, add garlic and ginger, and sauté for 1 minute.
  2. 2. Add sweetbreads and cook until browned, then add asparagus and soy sauce, stir-frying until asparagus is tender.
  3. 3. Serve hot over brown rice or quinoa.

Goose Sweetbreads with Avocado Cream

Delicate goose sweetbreads served with a creamy avocado sauce, garnished with microgreens for a gourmet touch.

Ingredients
  • 300g raw goose sweetbreads
  • 1 ripe avocado
  • 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Microgreens for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Sauté sweetbreads in a pan until golden and cooked through, then set aside.
  2. 2. Blend avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  3. 3. Plate sweetbreads, drizzle with avocado cream, and garnish with microgreens.

Goose Sweetbreads with Lentil Salad

A nutritious salad combining roasted goose sweetbreads and protein-packed lentils, dressed with a tangy vinaigrette.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw goose sweetbreads
  • 1 cup cooked lentils
  • 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Roast sweetbreads in the oven at 180°C (350°F) for 15-20 minutes until golden.
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix lentils, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Top lentil salad with roasted sweetbreads and serve warm.

Goose Sweetbreads with Cauliflower Purée

Silky cauliflower purée paired with crispy goose sweetbreads, creating a comforting yet elegant dish.

Ingredients
  • 250g raw goose sweetbreads
  • 1 head cauliflower, chopped
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Steam cauliflower until tender, then blend with vegetable broth, butter, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  2. 2. Sear sweetbreads in a hot pan until crispy on the outside.
  3. 3. Serve sweetbreads over cauliflower purée.

Goose Sweetbreads with Spinach and Feta

A delicious combination of sautéed goose sweetbreads with fresh spinach and crumbled feta cheese, perfect for a healthy dinner.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw goose sweetbreads
  • 2 cups fresh spinach
  • 100g feta cheese, crumbled
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Sauté sweetbreads in olive oil until cooked through, then add spinach and cook until wilted.
  2. 2. Season with salt and pepper, then sprinkle with feta cheese before serving.

Goose Sweetbreads with Tomato Basil Sauce

Tender goose sweetbreads served with a fresh tomato basil sauce, offering a burst of flavor and nutrition.

Ingredients
  • 300g raw goose sweetbreads
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Sauté sweetbreads in olive oil until golden and cooked through.
  2. 2. In another pan, cook cherry tomatoes until soft, then stir in fresh basil, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Serve sweetbreads topped with the tomato basil sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are sweetbreads?

Sweetbreads are the thymus gland or pancreas of young animals, particularly calves and lambs, but goose sweetbreads are also highly regarded.

How should I cook raw goose sweetbreads?

They can be poached, sautéed, or grilled. It's important to cook them gently to preserve their delicate texture.

Are sweetbreads healthy?

Yes, they are rich in protein and essential nutrients, but should be consumed in moderation due to their fat content.

Can I freeze raw goose sweetbreads?

Yes, they can be frozen, but it's best to use them fresh for optimal flavor and texture.

What do sweetbreads taste like?

They have a mild, creamy flavor with a tender texture, often described as rich and luxurious.

How do I clean raw sweetbreads?

Soak them in cold water, then remove any membranes or connective tissue before cooking.

What dishes can I make with sweetbreads?

They can be used in various dishes, including pâtés, terrines, or served with sauces and vegetables.

Are there any dietary restrictions for sweetbreads?

Individuals with gout or high cholesterol should consult a healthcare provider before consuming sweetbreads.