Javelinas, also known as collared peccaries, are pig-like mammals found in the southwestern United States and parts of Central and South America. Despite their resemblance to pigs, javelinas are actually more closely related to hippos and whales. This leads many people to wonder – do javelinas taste like pigs when cooked?
Quick Answer
Yes, javelinas do generally taste similar to domestic pigs, with some key differences. The meat is usually described as tasting like a cross between pork and venison.
Javelina Taste Profile
Most people describe javelina meat as having a mild flavor reminiscent of pork. Specific characteristics include:
- Lean like venison or goat
- Mildly gamey, but not as strong as venison
- Slightly sweet like pork
- Medium texture similar to pork
However, there are some notable differences from pork:
- Lower fat content than domestic pigs
- Tougher than pork if not prepared properly
- Stronger “gamey” flavor in older javelinas
Preparing Javelina Meat
Proper preparation and cooking is important when eating javelina meat. Here are some tips:
- Use moist cooking methods like braising, stewing, or slow cooking to tenderize the meat.
- Marinate cuts of javelina in an acidic liquid to help tenderize.
- Cook quickly over high heat, like grilling, for tender cuts like loin or chops.
- Avoid overcooking, which can make the meat tough and dry.
- Utilize stronger seasoning compared to pork to balance out the gamey notes.
Javelina Recipes
When cooked well, javelina can substitute for pork in many recipes. Here are some popular ways it is prepared:
- Javelina pulled barbecue – Slow cooked shredded javelina shoulder makes an excellent sandwich filling.
- Javelina sausage – Ground meat is perfect for making breakfast sausage patties or links.
- Javelina carnitas – Braised then crisped up over high heat, served in tacos or burritos.
- Javelina ham – Cured and smoked javelina legs are tasty baked or fried.
- Javelina stir fry – Quick cooking over high heat suits tender cuts like loin.
Hunting Javelina
Javelina are commonly hunted for both meat and sport in the southwestern USA. Here are some key notes about hunting javelina:
- Populations are stable and plentiful enough for legal hunting in Arizona, New Mexico and Texas.
- Hunting helps manage populations and raises funds for conservation.
- Javelina hunting season typically runs October through January.
- Legal weapons include rifles, shotguns, handguns, bows.
- Dogs can be used to track and pursue javelina once treed or cornered.
- Meat must be prepared within a few days due to spoilage.
Proper licensing from wildlife agencies is always required for javelina hunting. Bag limits help restrict over-hunting in any given area.
Availability of Javelina Meat
While not as common as beef or pork, javelina meat can be found in some specialty butcher shops, farmers markets, and game processors in the southwestern United States. Here are some tips for finding javelina meat for sale:
- Check with local butchers after hunting season (October through January)
- Look for javelina sausage in butcher cases
- Ask local hunters if they have extra meat for sale
- Watch for javelina meat at farmers markets
- Order online from specialty game meat companies
Of course, hunting and preparing your own javelina is the best way to ensure availability. Just be sure to follow all regulations and properly care for the meat.
Nutrition Facts
Like other wild game, javelina meat is lean and high in protein. It has a nutritional profile similar to venison or bison. Here is a comparison of the nutrition facts for 3.5 ounces (100 grams) of raw meat:
| Meat | Calories | Fat (g) | Protein (g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Javelina | 122 | 2.3 | 22.6 |
| Lean pork | 143 | 5.4 | 22.5 |
| Venison | 120 | 1.4 | 23.5 |
As you can see, javelina has slightly fewer calories and less fat compared to pork. The protein content is nearly identical to both pork and venison.
Taste Comparison to Domestic Pig Breeds
There are many breeds of domestic pigs from leaner heritage breeds to fattier commercial breeds. So how does javelina taste compared to different types of pig?
Javelina is closest to older heritage breeds of pig in leanness, flavor, and texture:
- Mulefoot – Similar fat content and rich, gamey flavor
- Red wattle – Comparable texture and robust pork taste
- Mangalitsa – Lower fat than Mangalitsa but similar meaty flavor
It differs more from modern commercial pork breeds like:
- Yorkshire – Much lower fat content than Yorkshires
- Landrace – Leaner and more gamey flavor than Landrace pork
- Duroc – Lower fat ratio and finer muscle grain than Duroc
Conclusion
In the end, javelina meat does share the basic flavor profile of pork, with some key differences owing to its wild nature. When properly prepared, it can deliver a uniquely delicious meat comparable to heritage pork breeds. The exact taste experience depends on the specific cut, age of the animal, and cooking method. Those curious about trying this unconventional game meat will likely find it a tasty delicacy.
