20 Savory Animal Based Recipes for Protein Lovers

Are you a protein lover looking for new and exciting ways to incorporate more meat into your meals? Look no further! We’ve gathered 20 mouth-watering recipes that showcase the rich flavors and textures of grass-fed beef, pan-seared ribeye steak, slow-cooked pulled pork, roasted chicken thighs, and many other delicious animal-based ingredients.

From classic comfort foods like Beef Bourguignon to international-inspired dishes like Korean-style BBQ Pork Belly Ramen, this list has something for every palate. Whether you’re a meat-and-potatoes kind of person or a adventurous foodie, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and keep you coming back for more.

Grass-Fed Beef Bourguignon

Grass-Fed Beef Bourguignon
Experience the rich flavors of French cuisine with this hearty and comforting Grass-Fed Beef Bourguignon recipe, made possible by the tender and flavorful grass-fed beef.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs grass-fed beef short ribs or chuck roast
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon tomato paste
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 thyme sprig
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the beef on all sides, then remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic to the pot; cook until softened.
4. Add wine, broth, tomato paste, bay leaves, and thyme. Stir to combine.
5. Return beef to the pot, cover, and transfer to the oven.
6. Braise for 2-3 hours or until beef is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Time: 2-3 hours

Pan-Seared Ribeye Steak with Herb Butter

Pan-Seared Ribeye Steak with Herb Butter
Elevate your dinner game with this succulent pan-seared ribeye steak, topped with a rich and flavorful herb butter.

Ingredients:

– 1.5-2 pounds ribeye steak
– 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat a cast-iron skillet or oven-safe pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the ribeye steak with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Sear the steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness. Use a thermometer to check for internal temperatures: rare (130°F), medium-rare (135°F), or medium (140°F).
4. Remove the steak from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, mix the softened butter with minced garlic, parsley, and chives.
6. Place the herb butter on top of the rested steak and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total (depending on the thickness of the steak)

Slow-Cooked Pulled Pork Tacos

Slow-Cooked Pulled Pork Tacos
Slow-Cooked Pulled Pork Tacos Recipe

Summary: Slow-cooked pulled pork gets a flavor boost from bold spices and a tangy slaw, all wrapped up in a crispy taco shell. Perfect for a crowd or just a quick dinner.

Ingredients:

– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1/4 cup chili powder
– 2 tablespoons ground cumin
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 cup chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Slaw (recipe below)
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro

Instructions:

1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub spice mixture all over the pork shoulder.
4. Place sliced onion at the bottom of the slow cooker, then add the garlic, pork shoulder, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and chicken broth.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Shred pork with two forks and stir in any accumulated juices.
7. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
8. Assemble tacos with pulled pork, slaw, and desired toppings.

Slaw Recipe (optional):

– 1 cup shredded cabbage
– 1/2 cup shredded carrots
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and toss to combine. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken Thighs

Garlic Butter Roasted Chicken Thighs
Elevate your mealtime with this simple yet flavorful recipe that yields tender and juicy chicken thighs smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce.

Ingredients:
• 4-6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the minced garlic and softened butter until well combined.
3. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Place the chicken thighs in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Brush the garlic butter mixture evenly over the top of each chicken thigh, making sure to coat them thoroughly.
6. Roast the chicken thighs in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through and golden brown.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Pork Tenderloin

Bacon-Wrapped Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
Elevate your dinner game with this indulgent pork tenderloin recipe, wrapped in crispy bacon and filled with savory stuffing.

Ingredients:

– 1 (6-8 oz) pork tenderloin
– 1/2 cup homemade or store-bought herb bread stuffing
– 4 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the bread stuffing and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Lay the pork tenderloin on a flat surface. Make a horizontal incision in the center, being careful not to cut all the way through.
4. Stuff the tenderloin with the prepared stuffing, making sure to fill it evenly.
5. Wrap 2 slices of bacon around the stuffed pork, securing it with toothpicks if needed.
6. Drizzle the olive oil over the bacon and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Place the pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Classic Beef Meatballs in Marinara Sauce

Classic Beef Meatballs in Marinara Sauce
Classic Beef Meatballs in Marinara Sauce Recipe

Get ready to taste the authentic Italian flavor of homemade meatballs smothered in rich marinara sauce!

Ingredients:

– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought), for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, and parsley. Mix until just combined.
3. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small meatballs, about 1 1/2 inches (3.8 cm) in diameter. You should end up with around 20-25 meatballs.
4. Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, leaving some space between each one.
5. Bake for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with marinara sauce spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes

Lamb Chops with Rosemary and Garlic

Lamb Chops with Rosemary and Garlic
Elevate your lamb chops with the classic combination of rosemary and garlic. This simple recipe yields tender, flavorful chops perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 lamb chops (1-1.5 pounds)
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together rosemary, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of lamb chops with olive oil.
4. Sprinkle the rosemary-garlic mixture evenly over both sides of the lamb chops.
5. Place lamb chops on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Roast in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Crispy Duck Confit with Orange Glaze

Crispy Duck Confit with Orange Glaze
Transform duck legs into a tender, flavorful dish with this easy recipe. Crispy skin and juicy meat are elevated by a tangy orange glaze.

Ingredients:

– 4 duck legs (about 1 lb)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup white wine
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 orange, peeled and segmented
– 2 tbsp honey

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Season duck legs with salt, pepper, and thyme.
3. In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown duck legs on all sides, about 5 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. Reduce heat to medium, add sliced onion and cook until caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Add garlic, chicken broth, and white wine to the pot. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits.
6. Return duck legs to the pot, cover with a lid, and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Braise for 2 hours, or until duck is tender and falls-apart.
8. In a small saucepan, bring orange segments and honey to a simmer over medium heat. Cook until glaze thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
9. Remove duck from the pot and brush with orange glaze.

Cooking Time: 2 hours, plus additional time for orange glaze

Venison Stew with Root Vegetables

Venison Stew with Root Vegetables
This hearty venison stew recipe combines the rich flavor of game meat with the comforting warmth of root vegetables, perfect for a chilly evening.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound venison steaks or cubes
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and chopped
– 1 large celery stalk, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the venison and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the chopped carrots, parsnip, celery, and garlic to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Add the beef broth and red wine (if using) to the pot. Stir to combine.
5. Return the venison to the pot and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the meat is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes

Grilled Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce

Grilled Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce
A refreshing twist on a classic dish, this grilled salmon recipe is perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place salmon fillets on the grill and cook for 4-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Brush the Lemon-Dill Sauce over the salmon during the last minute of cooking.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes

Spicy Chorizo and Egg Breakfast Skillet

Spicy Chorizo and Egg Breakfast Skillet
Spicy Chorizo and Egg Breakfast Skillet Recipe

Summary: A flavorful and filling breakfast skillet recipe that combines spicy chorizo sausage, scrambled eggs, bell peppers, onions, and potatoes for a delicious morning meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb chorizo sausage, sliced
– 4 large eggs
– 2 medium bell peppers (any color), diced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheese for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook chorizo sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add bell peppers, onions, and potatoes to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 10-12 minutes.
4. Crack eggs into a bowl and whisk together. Pour eggs over vegetables and cook until scrambled, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with shredded cheese if desired.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Turkey and Sage Stuffed Bell Peppers

Turkey and Sage Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe combines the flavors of savory turkey, aromatic sage, and sweet bell peppers for a delicious and healthy meal.

Ingredients:

– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for extra flavor)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, remove seeds and membranes, and place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, cooked rice, chopped sage, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the turkey mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle the tops with olive oil (and cheese if using).
6. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.

Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes

Beef Liver Pâté with Caramelized Onions

Beef Liver Pâté with Caramelized Onions
Experience the rich flavors of France with this creamy Beef Liver Pâté, elevated by sweet and savory caramelized onions.

Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef liver, finely chopped
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon cognac (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a skillet, caramelize onions over medium-low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. In a separate pan, cook chopped liver in butter until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add caramelized onions, heavy cream, and cognac (if using) to the liver mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth.
6. Spoon the pâté into a serving dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 40 minutes

Bison Burgers with Blue Cheese

Bison Burgers with Blue Cheese
Elevate your burger game with the bold flavors of bison and blue cheese.

Ingredients:

– 4 bison burgers (1 lb each)
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 4 hamburger buns
– Lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and any other desired toppings

Instructions:

1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season the bison burgers with salt and pepper on both sides.
3. Grill the burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they reach your desired level of doneness.
4. While the burgers are cooking, toast the hamburger buns by grilling them for a minute or baking them in the oven for a few minutes.
5. Assemble the burgers by spreading blue cheese on the bottom bun, followed by a cooked patty, and finishing with any desired toppings.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb

Herb-Crusted Rack of Lamb
Elevate your dinner game with this flavorful and visually stunning dish, featuring a crispy herb crust on tender rack of lamb.

Ingredients:

– 1 (1 1/2 to 2 pound) rack of lamb
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, lemon zest, and garlic.
3. Season the lamb rack with salt and pepper.
4. Spread the herb mixture evenly over the lamb rack, making sure to coat all surfaces.
5. Place the lamb on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for 20-25 minutes per pound, or until it reaches desired level of doneness.
6. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes

Braised Short Ribs with Red Wine Reduction

Braised Short Ribs with Red Wine Reduction

Braised Short Ribs with Red Wine Reduction

A classic comfort dish, braised short ribs fall-off-the-bone tender and richly flavored with a deep red wine reduction.

  1. Ingredients:

    • 4 pounds beef short ribs
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 onion, chopped
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
    • 1 cup beef broth
    • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
    • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
  2. Instructions:

    1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
    2. Season ribs with salt and pepper.
    3. In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high. Brown ribs in batches; remove from pot.
    4. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
    5. Add wine, broth, tomato paste, and thyme. Stir to combine.
    6. Return ribs to the pot; cover with a lid.
    7. Braise for 2 1/2 hours or until tender.

Cooking Time: 2 1/2 hours

Chicken and Andouille Sausage Gumbo

Chicken and Andouille Sausage Gumbo
Get ready to warm up with a hearty and flavorful gumbo recipe that combines the richness of chicken, sausage, and spices.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup long-grain rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Filé powder (optional)

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and sausage; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in rice, broth, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions and filé powder if desired.

Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes

Pork Belly Ramen with Soft-Boiled Eggs

Pork Belly Ramen with Soft-Boiled Eggs
Pork Belly Ramen with Soft-Boiled Eggs Recipe

This hearty ramen dish combines the rich flavors of pork belly, soft-boiled eggs, and a savory broth for a comforting meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 lb pork belly, sliced into thin strips
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sake (or dry white wine)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 package ramen noodles
– 4 soft-boiled eggs
– Green onions, thinly sliced, for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine pork belly, chicken broth, soy sauce, sake, brown sugar, garlic, and ginger. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
2. Cook ramen noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. Add sliced soft-boiled eggs to the pork belly broth and simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until eggs are cooked to desired doneness.
4. Divide noodles among bowls, then ladle in the pork belly broth and top with slices of pork belly and soft-boiled eggs. Garnish with green onions.

Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes

Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter

Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter
Sear-Seared Scallops with Garlic Butter Recipe

Summary:
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet impressive seared scallop recipe, smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce.

Ingredients:

– 12 large scallops
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rinse the scallops under cold water, pat dry with paper towels.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the softened butter to the skillet, stirring until melted and combined with the garlic.
4. Place the scallops in the skillet, searing for 2-3 minutes on each side or until cooked through.
5. If using white wine, add it to the skillet after flipping the scallops and simmer for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
8. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Beef Heart Kebabs with Chimichurri

Beef Heart Kebabs with Chimichurri
Elevate your grilled meat game with this unique and flavorful recipe featuring beef heart kebabs paired with a tangy Argentinean-inspired chimichurri sauce.

Ingredients:

– 1 pound beef heart, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped parsley
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped oregano
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, parsley, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper. Add beef heart cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Thread marinated beef heart onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill kebabs for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Meanwhile, combine chimichurri sauce ingredients in a bowl. Stir well and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Summary

Get ready to indulge in a culinary adventure with these savory animal-based recipes! From classic Beef Bourguignon to tender Pulled Pork Tacos and crispy Duck Confit, this collection has something for every protein lover. Savor the flavors of Slow-Cooked Venison Stew or grilled Salmon with Lemon-Dill Sauce. Spice up your breakfast with Spicy Chorizo and Egg Skillet or satisfy your cravings with juicy Beef Meatballs in Marinara Sauce. These 20 mouth-watering recipes will take you on a gastronomic journey around the world, all while showcasing the rich flavors of animal-based cuisine.

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