Recipe

Squirrel Forequarter with Lettuce and Onions

Michigan Squirrel Forequarter built around Lettuce and Onions, with enough structure to feel specific and enough restraint to stay useful.

Overview

Michigan cooking is strongest when the pan stays honest and the finish stays clean. This version uses Lettuce and Onions and a covered braise finish so the Squirrel Forequarter stays central instead of getting buried under the rest of the plate.

covered-braise 18 min prep 80 min cook Serves 4

Ingredients

1 1/2 to 2 pounds Squirrel Forequarter
Kosher salt
Black pepper
Neutral oil or rendered fat
1 head Lettuce, torn
1 to 2 cups Onions
Optional: 1 small Garlic
2 cups stock

Method

Trim and season the Squirrel Forequarter while you prep the Lettuce and Onions.
Set up the pan, pot, or oven before you start cooking so the timing stays calm once the protein goes down.
Once the pot is together, cover it and give the cut enough time to soften without falling apart.
Fold in the Lettuce and Onions at the right point so they support the cut instead of dissolving into the background.
Rest or hold the protein briefly, then serve while the pan juices or broth still feel connected to the plate.

Notes

Keep the seasoning clean and let the cut set the pace. Leftovers keep best when cooled quickly and packed shallow; Michigan meals built around Squirrel Forequarter are usually stronger on day one than after repeated reheats.