Buffalo Meat Vs. Ground Beef
- Grass-fed buffalo is higher in iron and protein than beef, though the meats have comparable amounts of B vitamins. Grass-fed bison also contains higher amounts of Omega-3 fatty acids than grain-fed beef.
- Ground buffalo has a lower saturated and unsaturated fat content than most ground beef, is generally lower in cholesterol and has an average of 143 calories per 3-ounce serving vs. 211 for ground beef. However, if you purchase 95 percent lean ground beef, the fat content is similar to that of buffalo.
- Grass-fed animals roam and feed on grass in a pasture. Grain-fed animals are usually kept in feedlots, often in crowded conditions. Grain-fed animals are given antibiotics to prevent disease, and those antibiotics are passed into the meat we eat. Most buffalo are grass-fed, but check the label to be sure.
- Some people claim that bison meat tastes sweeter than beef. It is a tasty meat and not gamey. That, along with its nutritional profile, makes it a perfect addition to any recipe calling for ground beef.
- Try adding ground bison to chili or lasagna, or make patties. For burgers, you may want to add egg, a bit of teriyaki sauce or other moisture since the meat is lean. Cook the meat on medium low heat until just cooked through to prevent it from drying.
