Discover the Unique Flavor and Health Benefits of Reindeer Meat

Reindeer are native to the colder regions of the world near the Arctic Circle. They populate the mountainous regions of Siberia, Europe, and North America. Reindeer meat is a primary meat source in Norway, where it’s a staple of their traditional cuisine that can be prepared in a variety of ways, including steaks, sausages, jerky, minced meat, and more. So, what does reindeer meat taste like? Continue reading to discover the answer as well as how reindeer meat compares in flavor and healthfulness to more traditional meats.

Reindeer Meat Flavor

Like other venison, reindeer meat has a gamey, metallic flavor thanks to its lean nature and resultant higher iron concentration. It is generally much leaner and more tender than beef, though this will depend on the cut and cook. Generally, the gamey flavor can be described as a very strong meat taste. Gamey meat is a bit more acidic due to a wild animal’s diet. The overall taste will vary from animal to animal and depend on what they eat. Other factors that can affect the meat’s flavor include the animal’s age, climate, and the way it was butchered. Interestingly, some people believe reindeer meat isn’t gamey at all.

Does Reindeer Taste Different Than Deer or Liver?

Reindeer meat may taste very similar to deer for some people but is a bit leaner and softer than venison. It does share a similar gamey flavor, however. The difference in flavor primarily depends on their diet. Reindeer that graze on natural or managed pastures, like bushes and grass, will have a gamey, wild flavor. The meat of domesticated reindeer that are fed grains will have a much milder taste, more akin to beef. Reindeer meat is so lean and tender that if you want to make burgers or meatballs, you’ll need to add fat, or it will lose consistency and fall apart. 

Is Reindeer Meat Healthier Than Beef?

Reindeer meat is much leaner than beef, and it also has a higher concentration of vitamins B and D. It also contains less overall cholesterol and fat — reindeer meat is generally leaner than beef, often containing significantly less fat, although exact percentages can vary — so it can be said to be healthier than beef.

However, it will also be more prone to have bacteria, especially if it’s game meat, as wild animals will not be raised with regular health checks and balanced diets like cattle. Tapeworms and other parasites are also commonly found in wild venison. For this reason, it is always recommended to freeze reindeer meat for at least 24 hours before processing it. This should eliminate most microbes. Cooking it to 160° F will also kill off parasites and tapeworms.