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Squab Pigeon Breast
Meats
Nutri-ScoreA

Squab Pigeon Breast

Columba livia

Clinical Encyclopedia

SM
Scientifically reviewed by:Dra. Sofía Méndez (Clinical Nutritionist)
Nutri-Score & Health Summary

Squab Pigeon Breast provides 173 kcal, 24g of protein, 0g of carbohydrates, and 0g of fiber per 100g. With a Nutri-Score grade 'A', it is a highly recommended option for nutrient density.

Squab pigeon breast is a delicacy known for its tender texture and rich flavor, often sought after in gourmet cuisine. It is a lean source of protein, packed with essential vitamins and minerals.

Also known as:
Pigeon BreastYoung Pigeon Meat
Scientific NameColumba livia
Region of OriginVarious regions, commonly found in Europe and Asia.
Popular Comparisons:
Squab Pigeon BreastSquab Pigeon BreastVSAbaloneAbaloneSquab Pigeon BreastSquab Pigeon BreastVSAlligator TailAlligator TailSquab Pigeon BreastSquab Pigeon BreastVSAlligator Tail MeatAlligator Tail MeatSquab Pigeon BreastSquab Pigeon BreastVSFried Alligator Tail MeatFried Alligator Tail MeatSquab Pigeon BreastSquab Pigeon BreastVSAlpaca Loin SteakAlpaca Loin SteakSquab Pigeon BreastSquab Pigeon BreastVSSpicy Andouille SausageSpicy Andouille SausageSquab Pigeon BreastSquab Pigeon BreastVSAntelope Loin SteakAntelope Loin SteakSquab Pigeon BreastSquab Pigeon BreastVSBaconBaconSquab Pigeon BreastSquab Pigeon BreastVSApplewood Smoked BaconApplewood Smoked BaconSquab Pigeon BreastSquab Pigeon BreastVSCanadian Back BaconCanadian Back Bacon

Macronutrient Ratio

Caloric distribution of primary energy metrics per 100g

Calories173 kcal
Water
70%
Fiber0g
Total32.0g
Protein
24g(75%)
Fats
8g(25%)
Carbohydrates
0g(0%)

Micronutrient DV% Score

Top vitamins and minerals ranked by percentage of Daily Recommended Value

Vitamins (DV%)
Minerals (DV%)

Complete Micronutrient Breakdown

Detailed concentration of essential micronutrients per 100g serving.

Vitamins

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Vitamin B1212 µg (200%)
Vitamin b6 (pyridoxine)0.5 mg (30%)
Vitamins with less than 2% DVNone registered

Minerals

Major Source (≥ 2% DV)
Iron3.5 mg (20%)
Zinc2 mg (18%)
Minerals with less than 2% DVNone registered

Health Benefits

✓Rich in high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
✓Contains significant amounts of B vitamins, particularly B12, which is crucial for energy metabolism and neurological function.
✓A good source of iron and zinc, important for immune function and oxygen transport in the blood.
✓Low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for low-carb diets.

Possible Risks & Side Effects

!May contain purines, which can exacerbate gout in susceptible individuals.
!Should be cooked thoroughly to avoid foodborne illnesses.

How to Prepare & Consume

Best prepared by roasting or grilling to enhance its natural flavors. It can also be pan-seared for a crispy skin.

Smart Selection & Storage

How to Select

Choose squab pigeon breasts that are firm to the touch and have a pinkish hue. Avoid any that appear discolored or have an off smell.

How to Store

Store in the refrigerator if using within a couple of days, or freeze for longer storage. Ensure it is wrapped tightly to maintain freshness.

Myths vs Realities

MythSquab is just a fancy name for regular pigeon.
RealitySquab refers specifically to young pigeons raised for meat, which are different from wild pigeons.
MythEating squab pigeon breast is unhealthy due to its fat content.
RealityWhile it contains fat, it is primarily unsaturated fat, which can be part of a healthy diet when consumed in moderation.
MythSquab pigeon breast is difficult to prepare.
RealityIt is quite easy to prepare and can be cooked using simple methods like roasting or grilling.

Healthy Recipes

Herb-Crusted Squab Breast with Quinoa Salad

This dish features tender squab breast coated in a fragrant herb crust, served alongside a refreshing quinoa salad packed with vegetables.

Ingredients
  • 2 squab pigeon breasts
  • 1 cup cooked quinoa
  • 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 cup cucumber, diced
  • 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. 2. Mix garlic powder, salt, and pepper with chopped herbs, then coat the squab breasts with the mixture.
  3. 3. Bake the squab for 15-20 minutes until cooked through.
  4. 4. In a bowl, combine quinoa, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, parsley, olive oil, and lemon juice.
  5. 5. Serve the squab on a bed of quinoa salad.

Grilled Squab Breast with Mango Salsa

Juicy grilled squab breast paired with a vibrant mango salsa for a tropical twist that’s both healthy and flavorful.

Ingredients
  • 2 squab pigeon breasts
  • 1 ripe mango, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 jalapeño, minced
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1 tablespoon cilantro, chopped
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  2. 2. Season squab breasts with salt and grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side.
  3. 3. In a bowl, mix mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, cilantro, and salt to create the salsa.
  4. 4. Serve the grilled squab topped with mango salsa.

Stuffed Squab Breast with Spinach and Feta

Delicious squab breast stuffed with a savory mixture of spinach and feta cheese, baked to perfection for a healthy gourmet meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 squab pigeon breasts
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, sautéed
  • 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2. Carefully butterfly the squab breasts and season with salt and pepper.
  3. 3. Mix sautéed spinach and feta, then stuff the mixture into the squab breasts.
  4. 4. Secure with toothpicks, drizzle with olive oil, and bake for 25 minutes.

Pan-Seared Squab Breast with Balsamic Reduction

A gourmet dish of pan-seared squab breast drizzled with a rich balsamic reduction, served with steamed asparagus for a healthy touch.

Ingredients
  • 2 squab pigeon breasts
  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 bunch asparagus, trimmed
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. In a saucepan, simmer balsamic vinegar and honey until reduced by half.
  2. 2. Season squab breasts with salt and pepper, then sear in a hot pan for 5-6 minutes per side.
  3. 3. Steam asparagus until tender.
  4. 4. Serve the squab drizzled with balsamic reduction alongside asparagus.

Asian-Inspired Squab Breast with Ginger Soy Glaze

Tender squab breast glazed with a flavorful ginger soy sauce, served with brown rice and steamed broccoli for a nutritious meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 squab pigeon breasts
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1 cup broccoli florets
Instructions
  1. 1. Mix soy sauce, ginger, and honey to create the glaze.
  2. 2. Marinate squab breasts in the glaze for at least 30 minutes.
  3. 3. Grill or pan-sear the squab for 6-7 minutes on each side.
  4. 4. Serve with brown rice and steamed broccoli.

Mediterranean Squab Breast with Roasted Vegetables

Roasted squab breast served with a medley of Mediterranean vegetables, drizzled with a light olive oil dressing for a wholesome dish.

Ingredients
  • 2 squab pigeon breasts
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped
  • 1 red onion, cut into wedges
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. 2. Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, and spread on a baking sheet.
  3. 3. Place squab breasts on the baking sheet and roast for 25 minutes.
  4. 4. Serve the squab with roasted vegetables.

Squab Breast Tacos with Avocado Crema

Flavorful squab breast served in corn tortillas with a creamy avocado sauce, topped with fresh cilantro for a healthy twist on tacos.

Ingredients
  • 2 squab pigeon breasts
  • 4 corn tortillas
  • 1 avocado
  • 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Season squab breasts with salt and grill for 6-7 minutes on each side.
  2. 2. Blend avocado, Greek yogurt, lime juice, and salt to make the crema.
  3. 3. Warm tortillas and fill them with sliced squab and avocado crema.
  4. 4. Top with chopped cilantro before serving.

Squab Breast with Cauliflower Purée

A sophisticated dish featuring seared squab breast served over a smooth cauliflower purée, garnished with microgreens for a touch of elegance.

Ingredients
  • 2 squab pigeon breasts
  • 1 head cauliflower, chopped
  • 1/4 cup almond milk
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Microgreens for garnish
Instructions
  1. 1. Steam cauliflower until tender, then blend with almond milk, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  2. 2. Season squab breasts and sear in a hot pan for 5-6 minutes per side.
  3. 3. Serve the squab over cauliflower purée and garnish with microgreens.

Spicy Squab Breast with Cilantro Lime Rice

A zesty dish of squab breast marinated in spices, served with fragrant cilantro lime rice for a delicious and healthy meal.

Ingredients
  • 2 squab pigeon breasts
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Marinate squab breasts in chili powder, salt, and lime juice for 30 minutes.
  2. 2. Grill or pan-sear the squab for 6-7 minutes on each side.
  3. 3. Mix cooked rice with cilantro and lime juice.
  4. 4. Serve the squab with cilantro lime rice.

Squab Breast Salad with Citrus Vinaigrette

A light and refreshing salad featuring sliced squab breast over mixed greens, drizzled with a zesty citrus vinaigrette.

Ingredients
  • 2 squab pigeon breasts
  • 4 cups mixed greens
  • 1 orange, segmented
  • 1/4 cup walnuts, toasted
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon orange juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
  1. 1. Season squab breasts with salt and sear until cooked through.
  2. 2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, orange juice, salt, and pepper for the vinaigrette.
  3. 3. Slice the squab and toss with mixed greens, orange segments, and walnuts.
  4. 4. Drizzle with vinaigrette before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is squab pigeon breast?

Squab pigeon breast refers to the meat of young pigeons, typically harvested at about 4 weeks old, known for its tenderness and rich flavor.

How should squab pigeon breast be cooked?

It is best cooked at high temperatures, such as roasting or grilling, to retain moisture and enhance flavor.

Is squab pigeon breast healthy?

Yes, it is a lean source of protein and contains essential vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice.

Where can I buy squab pigeon breast?

Squab pigeon breast can be found at specialty butcher shops, gourmet grocery stores, or ordered online from reputable suppliers.

How does squab pigeon breast compare to chicken?

Squab pigeon breast is richer in flavor and more tender than chicken, with a higher fat content, which contributes to its unique taste.

Can squab pigeon breast be frozen?

Yes, it can be frozen for up to 6 months. Ensure it is well-wrapped to prevent freezer burn.

What are the best side dishes for squab pigeon breast?

It pairs well with roasted vegetables, wild rice, or a light salad to complement its rich flavor.

Is squab pigeon breast safe to eat?

Yes, as long as it is cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure safety from foodborne pathogens.

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Comparisons
Squab Pigeon Breast vs Abalone Squab Pigeon Breast vs Alligator Tail Squab Pigeon Breast vs Alligator Tail Meat
Nutrients
Protein in Squab Pigeon Breast Calories in Squab Pigeon Breast Vitamin-c in Squab Pigeon Breast Magnesium in Squab Pigeon Breast
Featured Guides
Health Benefits of Squab Pigeon Breast Healthy Recipes with Squab Pigeon Breast
Rankings
Meats high in vitamin-b12 Meats high in protein Meats low in carbohidratos Meats low in índice glucémico