While goat is a staple in Middle Eastern, North African, and Caribbean cultures, here in the US, the protein-packed lean red meat has flown way under the radar. Now, that’s all changing, thanks in part to growing immigrant populations that have helped the import of goat meat shoot up 9-fold over the past 2 decades. During the same time, goat production here in the States has soared by 350%. MORE: 5 Food Labels All Meat Eaters Should Understand So what’s all the fuss about? Mainly, goat has a kickass nutritional profile, with a taste that’s just as hearty as beef and lamb. A 3-oz serving of roasted goat has just 122 calories and 23 g of protein—the same size portion of ground beef has the same amount of protein, but for 235 calories. In fact, despite being a red meat, goat has 6 fewer calories per serving than boneless, skinless chicken—not a huge difference, but a big deal, considering chicken’s reputation as the leanest meat you can eat. Goat meat’s flavor isn’t as gamey as you’d expect, either, with a flavor that’s “mild and approachable,” says Erin Fairbanks, assistant director of sales at specialty butcher Heritage Foods USA. Other sources describe it as “sweet,” “herbaceous,” “delicate,” and “grassy.” (Here are 6 reasons you should switch to goat cheese.) True, it’s still a bit tricky to find, but it is out there. The best places to find goat are your local specialty butcher, farmers’ market, and ethnic markets, says Fairbanks. Make sure you ask for it, too: Even if a retailer doesn’t sell goat, he or she may be able to find you someone who does. Online retailers like Heritage Foods USA also sell ground goat, ribs, chops, legs, shoulders, and more. Since goats are similar in size and shape to lambs, most whole cuts can be cooked just like lamb. Goat is also best cooked at low temperatures—since it’s low in fat, it can dry out more quickly than richer cuts like marbled steak. For this reason, the meat is best used in dishes that cook low and slow, like curries, stews, and chilis. (Here are a couple recipes to get you started!) Not only is goat good for your health, it’s also good for the planet. Goat ranchers aren’t allowed to use hormones per the USDA, and most animals are raised humanely and responsibly on small-scale farms. Still, look for “pasture-raised” on labels to make sure you’re getting the best cut possible.
