Shepherd's pie with potato
Shepherd's pie with potato Credit: VadimZakirov—Getty Images/iStockphoto

Goat

Despite being one of the most commonly eaten meats in the world, goat meat (or “chevon”, as it is sometimes called) has traditionally made relatively rare appearances on American dinner tables.

Its reputation for being gamey and tough often has more to do with preparation than with the quality of the meat itself.

The increased popularity of goat’s milk dairy products like the milk itself and chèvre has led to an increased availability of locally raised goat meat, which is often available at farmers markets.

Ground goat can serve as a substitute for ground beef, especially in dishes like shepherd’s pie or moussaka, for an end result that’s a bit stronger and more savory.

Being a lean meat with less cholesterol, fat and protein than either beef or lamb, whole pieces of goat favor long, slow cooking to minimize toughness; try it in simmered dishes like stews or curries. Goat chops are well served by 15 to 20 minutes in a warm oven after grilling.

— Brian Snell, CISA (Community Involved in Sustaining Agriculture)