Eating sandhill crane is becoming an increasingly popular option for hunters and wild game enthusiasts. Sandhill cranes are the largest species of crane found in North America and provide a generous amount of meat. Their population has been steadily increasing, making them a legal and sustainable game bird in many areas.
While sandhill crane has a unique flavor, many compare it to other game birds like duck. However, deciding how to cook sandhill crane brings up an important question – can you eat it medium rare? There are multiple factors to consider when cooking any type of wild game, especially in terms of food safety and proper preparation.
Is it safe to eat sandhill crane medium rare?
Eating meat medium rare refers to cooking it until the internal temperature reaches 130-135°F, so the meat is pink but not raw in the center.
For domestic poultry like chicken or turkey, the USDA recommends cooking to an internal temperature of 165°F to kill any potential bacteria or parasites. However, as a wild game bird, sandhill crane may be safe to eat medium rare.
According to game cooking experts, cranes live exclusively on grains, berries, and vegetation. They do not carry the same safety concerns related to parasites as scavenger birds. As a result, sandhill crane is likely safe to consume at lower temperatures like medium rare.
Of course, proper handling and preparation is still important when cooking any type of meat. Sandhill crane should be promptly field dressed after harvesting and refrigerated immediately. Meat should not be aged too long before freezing or cooking. Proper hygiene and avoiding cross-contamination are also essential.
Tips for cooking sandhill crane medium rare
If you want to enjoy sandhill crane cooked medium rare, here are some tips:
Cook to an internal temperature of 135°F
Use a meat thermometer to test the internal temperature of the sandhill crane meat. When it reaches 130-135°F, it is cooked to medium rare doneness. The meat will be warm pink throughout and juicy.
Sear the meat before roasting
Searing the sandhill crane first will help lock in moisture and flavor. Heat a cast iron skillet with oil or butter over high heat. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes until browned.
Roast at 250-300°F
For even cooking, roast the seared sandhill crane in the oven at a low temperature of 250-300°F. This slower cooking method will allow the interior to come up to temperature without overcooking the outer portions.
Let it rest before slicing
Once removed from the oven, let the sandhill crane rest for at least 5 minutes before slicing into it. This resting period will allow the juices to redistribute evenly throughout the meat.
Slice against the grain
Always slice sandhill crane against the grain of the meat. This will make it more tender to chew.
How to tell when sandhill crane is cooked to medium rare
Checking for signs of doneness is important when aiming for medium rare sandhill crane meat:
– Meat firm but springy to the touch
– Center is warmest shade of pink throughout
– Juices run clear with some pink coloring
– Internal temperature of 130-135°F
The breast meat especially can dry out quickly if overcooked, so remove sandhill crane from heat at 135°F for the best medium rare results. Legs and thighs have a bit more connective tissue and can be cooked slightly beyond that.
Sandhill crane cooking methods for medium rare
Many cooking methods work well for preparing medium rare sandhill crane:
Pan searing
Sear in a hot pan before transferring to oven. Use herbs and spices to coat before searing.
Grilling
Quickly sear sandhill crane portions over high heat grill. Move to cooler side of grill to finish cooking.
Roasting
For evenly cooked meat, sear sandhill crane and roast at 250-300°F until medium rare.
Sous vide
For precise control, cook sandhill crane sous vide circulator held at 130-135°F before searing.
Smoking
Use low, indirect heat between 180-220°F. Monitor closely for doneness.
Sandhill crane recipes for medium rare
Taking sandhill crane to medium rare doneness opens up delicious recipe options:
Coffee and chili rubbed sandhill crane with peach salsa
Seared sandhill crane with bourbon thyme glaze
Sandhill crane satay skewers with Thai peanut sauce
Herb-crusted sandhill crane with bacon Brussels sprouts
Mesquite smoked sandhill crane with blackberry barbecue sauce
Sandhill crane tarragon with asparagus and wild rice
Aim for creative spice rubs and glazes that complement the mild gamey flavor of sandhill crane prepared medium rare. Tart fruit salsas also pair nicely.
Is rare or medium rare sandhill crane safe for everyone?
It’s important to note that consuming rare or medium rare meat of any kind may not be suitable for everyone. People at higher risk for foodborne illness should take extra care:
– Young children
– Older adults
– Pregnant women
– Those with compromised immune systems
When in doubt, it may be best to cook game meat like sandhill crane to higher temperatures. Well done or thoroughly cooked meat reaching 165°F is considered safe for all.
Storing and reheating leftover medium rare sandhill crane
Properly storing leftovers is always important for food safety:
– Refrigerate within 2 hours
– Store in shallow airtight containers
– Use within 3-4 days
Reheat cooked sandhill crane thoroughly to 165°F. This kills any bacteria that may have developed on the cooked meat.
Only reheat once for food safety. Do not save previously reheated sandhill crane.
Conclusion
Enjoying sandhill crane at medium rare doneness provides a tender, juicy result that brings out the delicate game flavor. While wild game like sandhill crane may be safe when prepared this way, proper handling, cooking, and storage help reduce any risks.
For a beautifully pink roasted, grilled, or smoked dish, target an internal temperature of 130-135°F. Searing before and resting after ensures the meat stays succulent and flavorful.
Pair medium rare sandhill crane with bold sauces and spice rubs that complement the taste. While juicier cuts like the breast and tenderloins are best suited for medium rare, the legs and thighs can also be enjoyed this way when braised or stewed gently.
Observe basic food safety when cooking and consuming medium rare meat, especially for those at higher risk of illness. With proper care in preparation, cooking, and handling, sandhill crane can make for an amazing meal when enjoyed at medium rare doneness.