So, the other day, I was watching ‘Chopped’, and it was one of the editions where a particular ingredient must be used for all three courses of the competition. It was a sausage edition, and for the entree round, the contestants were given camel sausages to cook with.

After overcoming my initial horror, I concluded that alternative forms of protein are not a bad idea, especially since we know that conventional meat is not sustainable in the nearest future(according to food scientists).

I personally think that people who live in Lagos need extra portions of animal protein, because of all the energy we expend due to Lagos stress. Let’s also not forget that Christmas is looking hella bleak due to the current chicken scarcity following the closure of the Lagos-Benin border by the Nigerian government.

So I’m going to share with you the unconventional alternative meat/protein choices to try in place of chicken.

Rabbit

I’m crying real tears as I write this because rabbits are too freaking adorable to be cooked and eaten, but apparently, rabbit is rich in protein and has a fairly lower fat content compared to beef and poultry. Due to the almost non-existent fat in rabbit, it’s also best eaten by those who want to lose weight or want to build muscle mass.

Rabbit is cholesterol-free and contains fewer calories than a serving of beef and chicken and should, therefore, be eaten with vegetables or grain. I’m thinking of efo-riro and eba in this situation.

It’s reportedly good for women who menstruate as it helps to replenish the iron lost during periods. High in vitamins B3 and B12, phosphorus, potassium and selenium, it contributes quite a lot of one’s daily dietary needs.

Game birds like duck or guinea fowl

I think we can also consider consuming birds other than chicken or turkey. Duck, for instance, is a lean source of protein, especially when cooked without the skin which contains a lot of fat. It a great source of vitamin B which is important in making sure that our cells are working properly. It also contains vitamin C which boosts the immune system. Guinea fowl meat is also rich in vitamins like B6, minerals, and omega 3 acids. There are several farms in Nigeria that rear both birds.

Alligator

I know it’s highly likely that your face just scrunched up in disgust, but don’t close this page just yet. A staple in China, Australia, Thailand and South Africa, alligator meat is said to be another meat that’s high in protein and low in fat. It contains even fewer calories than rabbit meat and a significant amount of phosphorus, potassium and monounsaturated fatty acids. It has been said that alligator tastes like chicken, but also with a mild fish flavour and firm texture. There is a thriving alligator and crocodile market called Oluwo in Epe, if you’re adventurous enough and want to know what they taste like. 

Wild game (Bushmeat) 

This simply refers to non-domesticated animals used for food. These could range from antelopes to cane rats. Bushmeat isn’t something we’re unfamiliar with in this part of the world. So the next time your relative comes from the village with bushmeat, maybe try some? Be adventurous. 

Beyond Meat 

This isn’t meat but a high-protein, plant-based, vegan and completely gluten-free alternative to meat. It was created in 2009 by an American named Ethan Brown and tastes exactly like meat- it simulates chicken, pork and beef sausages. It is mostly used in burgers and sold in stores in the US, but a restaurant in Lagos sells a Beyond Meat burger and we think it’s worth it. 

References:

https://www.newtimes.co.rw/section/read/189516

https://www.livestrong.com/article/378562-what-are-the-benefits-of-eating-rabbit-meat/

https://tastessence.com/things-you-should-know-about-alligator-meat

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eOwSe9MsYHo

https://www.gressinghamduck.co.uk/blog/health-benefits-of-duck/

https://www.checkyourfood.com/ingredients/ingredient/470/guinea-fowl-meat-and-skin-only