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Raw Ostrich Kidney
Meats
Nutri-ScoreA

Raw Ostrich Kidney

Struthio camelus

Clinical Encyclopedia

Ostrich kidney is a nutrient-dense organ meat, rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. It is particularly high in Vitamin B12 and iron, which are essential for energy production and red blood cell formation.

Also known as:
Ostrich Kidney
Scientific NameStruthio camelus
Region of OriginAfrica

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories150 kcal
Water
75%
Fiber0g
Total25.5g
Protein
20g(78%)
Fats
5g(20%)
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 B1210 µg (417%)
Vitamin A200 µg (22%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Iron5 mg (28%)
Zinc3 mg (27%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

High in protein, which supports muscle growth and repair.
Rich source of Vitamin B12, crucial for nerve function and DNA synthesis.
Contains iron, which is vital for oxygen transport in the blood.
Low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb diets.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!May contain purines, which can exacerbate gout in susceptible individuals.
!Raw consumption poses a risk of foodborne illness if not handled properly.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best cooked thoroughly to eliminate any potential pathogens; can be grilled, sautéed, or added to stews.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose fresh ostrich kidney that is firm and has a bright color; avoid any that appear discolored or have an off smell.

How to Store

Store in the refrigerator and use within a few days; can be frozen for longer storage.

Myths vs Realities

MythEating organ meats is unhealthy.
RealityOrgan meats like ostrich kidney are nutrient-dense and can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation.
MythAll organ meats are high in cholesterol.
RealityWhile some organ meats are higher in cholesterol, ostrich kidney is relatively low in fat and can be a healthy choice.
MythRaw organ meats are safe to eat.
RealityRaw organ meats can pose health risks due to potential pathogens and should be cooked properly.

Healthy Recipes

Ostrich Kidney Tartare with Avocado

A refreshing take on tartare, this dish combines raw ostrich kidney with creamy avocado and zesty lime for a nutritious appetizer.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw ostrich kidney, finely diced
  • 1 ripe avocado, diced
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, combine the diced ostrich kidney with lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
  2. 2. Gently fold in the diced avocado until well mixed.
  3. 3. Serve immediately on a chilled plate, garnished with extra cilantro.

Spicy Ostrich Kidney Salad

This vibrant salad features raw ostrich kidney tossed with spicy arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette for a nutritious boost.

Ingredients
  • 150g raw ostrich kidney, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups arugula
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tsp chili flakes
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, chili flakes, and salt.
  2. 2. Add arugula, cherry tomatoes, and sliced ostrich kidney to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
  3. 3. Serve chilled as a light lunch or dinner option.

Ostrich Kidney Ceviche

A zesty ceviche made with raw ostrich kidney, lime juice, and fresh herbs that brings a taste of the sea to your plate.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw ostrich kidney, diced
  • 1 cup lime juice
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a glass bowl, combine the diced ostrich kidney with lime juice and let it marinate for 30 minutes.
  2. 2. Add red onion, jalapeño, cilantro, and salt, mixing well.
  3. 3. Serve chilled with tortilla chips or on lettuce leaves.

Ostrich Kidney and Quinoa Bowl

A hearty bowl featuring raw ostrich kidney paired with protein-rich quinoa, roasted vegetables, and a lemon-tahini dressing.

Ingredients
  • 100g raw ostrich kidney, sliced
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1 cup mixed roasted vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini)
  • 2 tbsp tahini
  • 1 lemon, juiced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, whisk together tahini, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to create the dressing.
  2. 2. Layer cooked quinoa, roasted vegetables, and sliced ostrich kidney in a serving bowl.
  3. 3. Drizzle with tahini dressing and serve warm or at room temperature.

Ostrich Kidney Lettuce Wraps

These light and crunchy lettuce wraps are filled with marinated raw ostrich kidney, fresh veggies, and a spicy peanut sauce.

Ingredients
  • 150g raw ostrich kidney, diced
  • 1 head of butter lettuce, leaves separated
  • 1 carrot, julienned
  • 1 cucumber, julienned
  • 2 tbsp peanut butter
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sriracha
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix peanut butter, soy sauce, and sriracha to create the sauce.
  2. 2. Combine diced ostrich kidney with carrot and cucumber in another bowl.
  3. 3. Spoon the mixture into lettuce leaves and drizzle with peanut sauce before serving.

Ostrich Kidney Poke Bowl

A nutritious poke bowl featuring raw ostrich kidney, brown rice, seaweed, and fresh vegetables, topped with a sesame dressing.

Ingredients
  • 200g raw ostrich kidney, cubed
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1/2 cup seaweed salad
  • 1/2 cucumber, sliced
  • 2 tbsp sesame oil
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds
Instructions
  1. 1. In a bowl, mix sesame oil and soy sauce to create the dressing.
  2. 2. Layer cooked brown rice, seaweed salad, cucumber, and cubed ostrich kidney in a serving bowl.
  3. 3. Drizzle with sesame dressing and sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.

Ostrich Kidney and Spinach Smoothie

A nutrient-packed smoothie that blends raw ostrich kidney with spinach, banana, and almond milk for a healthy breakfast option.

Ingredients
  • 100g raw ostrich kidney
  • 1 cup fresh spinach
  • 1 banana
  • 1 cup almond milk
  • 1 tbsp honey (optional)
Instructions
  1. 1. In a blender, combine raw ostrich kidney, spinach, banana, almond milk, and honey.
  2. 2. Blend until smooth and creamy.
  3. 3. Pour into a glass and enjoy as a nutritious breakfast or snack.

Ostrich Kidney Stuffed Bell Peppers

Colorful bell peppers stuffed with a mixture of raw ostrich kidney, brown rice, and spices, baked to perfection for a wholesome meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 large bell peppers, halved
  • 150g raw ostrich kidney, diced
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. In a bowl, mix diced ostrich kidney, cooked brown rice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3. Stuff the bell pepper halves with the mixture and place in a baking dish. Bake for 25-30 minutes until peppers are tender.

Ostrich Kidney and Zucchini Noodles

A low-carb dish featuring raw ostrich kidney served over spiralized zucchini noodles, topped with a light garlic sauce.

Ingredients
  • 150g raw ostrich kidney, thinly sliced
  • 2 zucchinis, spiralized
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
  2. 2. Add spiralized zucchini and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
  3. 3. Top with sliced ostrich kidney, season with salt and pepper, and serve immediately.

Ostrich Kidney Sushi Rolls

Delicious sushi rolls filled with raw ostrich kidney, avocado, and cucumber, wrapped in nori for a healthy twist on sushi night.

Ingredients
  • 150g raw ostrich kidney, sliced
  • 1 avocado, sliced
  • 1 cucumber, julienned
  • 4 sheets nori
  • 2 cups sushi rice, cooked
  • Soy sauce for dipping
Instructions
  1. 1. Lay a sheet of nori on a bamboo sushi mat and spread a thin layer of sushi rice over it.
  2. 2. Place slices of ostrich kidney, avocado, and cucumber in the center.
  3. 3. Roll tightly, slice into pieces, and serve with soy sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the health benefits of eating ostrich kidney?

Ostrich kidney is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals, particularly Vitamin B12 and iron, which support energy levels and overall health.

How should ostrich kidney be cooked?

It should be cooked thoroughly to ensure safety; grilling or sautéing are popular methods.

Is it safe to eat raw ostrich kidney?

Raw consumption is not recommended due to the risk of foodborne illness.

Can ostrich kidney help with anemia?

Yes, its high iron content can help improve iron levels in individuals with anemia.

How does ostrich kidney compare to beef kidney?

Ostrich kidney is lower in fat and calories compared to beef kidney, while still being nutrient-dense.

What nutrients are most abundant in ostrich kidney?

It is particularly high in protein, Vitamin B12, iron, and zinc.

Can I freeze ostrich kidney?

Yes, it can be frozen for later use, but should be cooked before consumption.

What are the culinary uses of ostrich kidney?

It can be used in various dishes, including stews, stir-fries, or as a grilled delicacy.