Cast Iron Skillet Ground Bison Brown Rice

by BdRecipes
Published: Updated:

Cast Iron Skillet Ground Bison Brown Rice

The cast iron skillet ground bison  brown rice is one of our favorite meals when we cook outside. It’s nutritious and packed with protein. The bison offers a rich, flavorful taste. Unlike beef, it’s leaner and healthier. This dish is also great because brown rice is a complete protein, making it a perfect pair with bison.

We enjoy making this cast iron skillet ground bison brown rice because it’s easy to use. You can add any vegetables you like or have on hand. It’s also a one-pan meal, which makes cleanup easy. Cooking it in a cast iron skillet adds a unique, smoky flavor you can’t get from cooking indoors. The skillet retains heat well, ensuring everything cooks evenly.

Cooking outdoors is always an adventure. Preparing the cast iron skillet ground bison brown rice lets us enjoy the fresh air while making a good meal. It’s a wonderful way to unwind and spend quality time together. We also love how this dish is filling yet healthy, providing us with the energy we need for our outdoor activities.

This recipe is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a nutritious, delicious meal outside. It combines the best of hearty meat and healthy grains, all cooked to perfection in a cast iron skillet. Every time we make this dish, it reminds us why we love cooking outdoors. The cast iron skillet ground bison brown rice is a must-try for any outdoor cooks.

Cooking Instructions For the Cast Iron Skillet Ground Bison Brown Rice

  • The first step of making the cast iron skillet ground bison brown rice is to start your fire or charcoals. You will using them for the cast iron skillet ground bison brown rice, so you will want to make sure you have plenty on hand.
  • If using embers, get a large fire going using (preferably) hardwood and let it slowly burn down. This process from start to finish can take upwards of an hour.
  • If using charcoals, fill a large chimney starter and light. This process will take approximately 20 minutes to get all the coals hot and ready. You will likely want to have some charcoals available in reserve.
  • Add A grill grate for your Dutch oven or a tripod to hang it over the fire
  • In a large cast iron skillet, cook bison, onion, and garlic until bison is browned. Be sure to break up the pieces as you cook. Stir in salt, pepper, cumin to taste, cayenne, and tomato paste and vegetables.
  • Stir in brown rice, then add 2 cups chicken stock. Bring to a light boil, then cover and reduce heat. Let simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally and adding more stock as needed to prevent sticking and allow grains to cook.
  • To served remove from the fire and dig in.

Ingredients

ground bison
onion
garlic
salt
ground pepper
ground cumin
cayenne pepper
tomato paste
corn, peas and carrots
brown rice
chicken stock
greens

Cast Iron Skillet Ground Bison Brown Rice

5 Reasons I Love the Cast Iron Skillet Ground Bison Brown Rice

1. It is delicious

If you like meat, you will like Bison. People describe Bison meat as tasting comparable to beef but richer and somewhat sweeter. However, because bison is so thin, it is crucial not to overcook it. Bison should not be cooked beyond medium. Of course, if you use ground Bison, this isn’t an issue.

Some people are afraid that Bison will have a gamey flavor comparable to venison; however, I have never found this to be the case. Bison, in my opinion, tastes better than any meat I’ve ever tasted. Bison meat is denser, richer in flavor, and more satisfying than beef, in my opinion.

2. Lean Protein

Food guidelines advocate bison as a lean protein alongside skinless chicken breast and other wild game meats, and for good reason. 100g of lean bison contains just 2.42g of fat, compared to 8.09g in lean beef and 9.66g in lean pig. The same 100g of bison contains just 82mg of cholesterol, compared to 86mg in the same quantity of lean beef, pig, and chicken. If you want to keep things lean and clean, Bison is an excellent choice. Figures sourced from the Canadian Bison Association website.

3. Lot’s of the Good Stuff Inside

In addition to being lean as well as low in cholesterol, bison is high in iron (3.42mg per 100g lean meat compared to 2.99mg in beef, 1.1mg in pork, 0.6mg in chicken, and.34mg in salmon), vitamin B12, B6, Niacin, and Zinc. Bison’s high iron content makes it an ideal choice for both men and women who suffer from anemia. In 2018, Thehealthy.com (part of Reader’s Digest) identified bison as one of the 13 Superfoods Every Healthy Woman Needs in Her Diet because women are more susceptible to anemia, and bison delivers a high iron, low-fat choice to help address this issue.

Bison are raised without growth stimulants or hormones and are not regularly fed antibiotics.

4. It’s Sustainable

Bison are raised sustainably, contributing to the land’s development and biodiversity rather than depleting it. Because practically all of a bison’s nutritional demands can be supplied by *feeding on native perennial plants that grow natively in Canada, there is no need to overfertilize the soil. These grassland ecosystems would often be exploited for monoculture cultivation, such as grain or soybeans. Some monoculture farms have even been turned into more biodiverse bison grazing areas.

Raising a bison cow and her young requires between four and sixteen hectares of grazing space. However, bison live on, consume, and fertilize these enormous grasslands. Compare this to other commercial farming approaches that confine animals to limited quarters and raise their feed on monoculture farms. To be sustainable, these monoculture agricultural processes require a lot of acreage and artificial fertilizers. Of course, the feed must be moved from the farm to the animals.

5. You Already Know What To Do With It

One might be telling yourself, “This seems wonderful, but what do I do with it?” That is an excellent question. But here’s the thing: You are already aware of what to do with it. Let me ask you something: Have you ever cooked beef? If you said yes, you have your answer. You may make the same dishes you’ve always used; just substitute Bison for the protein. It is that easy.

Bison, The Meat of The Future.

Nutritional Facts for Meat Groups

Nutritional Facts for Meat Groups

I’ve been cooking with bison   for more than a decade, at private dinners, and at home, and I’ve always liked it. An observation that has impressed me over the years is that bison ought to be more widely recognized than it is, and I believe it is about to be. I believe that as consumers seek for more sustainable meals and leaner meats, bison will gain appeal. There is a growing trend, and for good cause, of eating higher quality meat in lesser quantities. Bison, with its high caloric density and unquestionable quality, is the ideal protein for this future dietary standard.

If you’ve ever spotted Bison at the grocery store, thought about it, but then passed it up because you didn’t know what to do with it or how it would taste, I hope this has given you a reason to reconsider. I hope you try it because I am convinced that you will be pleased with the results.

Grass-fed, regenerative bison meat is superior in flavor, protein content, and nutritional density. Bison is a lean, soft, naturally tasty meat with a deeper taste profile and darker color than beef. Bison meat, unlike that of other exotic species, lacks a “gamey” or wild flavor and is typically thought to be sweeter. Bison meat is interchangeable in almost any red meat dish.

Bison steaks cook around 1/3 faster than beef steaks due to their thinner nature. Bison steaks are best cooked medium-rare (135°F)/medium (145°F) to keep the meat’s moisture and taste – this means taking the meat off the fire when it is approximately 5 to 10 degrees below your ideal temperature to account for the rise in temperature while it rests.

Bison Cooking Guidelines

Buffalo Beat Cuts

Chart Showing Various Cuts of Bison

Steaks (Grill, Broil, or Pan-Broil)

Use steak ¾ to 1 inch thick
Place in lightly oiled skillet and use medium heat on stove top
Place bison on BBQ or 6 inches from the heat source in broiler
Cook 4 – 5 minutes per side

To increase tenderness, marinate sirloin tip and inside round steaks for 8- 24 hours

Roasts (Sirloin Tip, Inside Round)

Sear roast in oven at 500°F (260°C) or on stove in a hot pan
Season roast, add ¼ cup (50 mL) of liquid (water or red wine)
Roast at 325°F (165°C) in covered pan or place in slow cooker
Cook roast to medium rare 145°F (63°C)

Roasts (Rib, Loin and Tenderloin)

Use uncovered pan with rack
Season as desired to taste
Cook at 275°F (135°C)
Do not cook past medium 155°F (68°C)

Burger

Cook ground meats to 160°F (70°C) internal temperature
Make sure all patties sit flat on grill for entire cooking time.
Cooking equipment should maintain temperature of 375°F (190°C) even when loading continuously with frozen patties
Ground bison should always be cooked until no pink remains

Cast Iron Skillet Ground Bison Brown Rice

Natural versus Organic—Bison Meat is Meat Raised Naturally

The term ‘natural’ does not mean the same as certified organic. Under Canadian labelling guidelines, a ‘natural’ or ‘naturally raised’ label claim is allowed only if animals were raised with minimal human intervention, such as bison. While we can’t claim our bison meat as certified organic, we can say that our products are about as natural and unprocessed as you can get.

Bison Meat Benefits

Bison meat is one healthy protein, but don’t just take our word for it. The U.S. and Canada’s food guides recommends bison meat as a ‘heart healthy lean protein’ for anyone, and many nutritional experts tout bison as ‘a step above beef when it comes to sustainability, heart health and even taste.’ Nutrient-dense bison meat is healthy because it’s:

Bison is lean meat with a similar texture, flavor, and appearance to beef, but its impressive nutrient profile uniquely supports an active lifestyle. With no carbs, only 2.1g of fat, and a whopping 24 grams of high-quality protein per serving, the health benefits of bison meat are extensive.

Promotes Muscle Recovery

The main appeal of bison is its high quality protein content. . Protein is essential for helping your muscles recover from a tough workout. With the high-quality protein that bison contains, your body can use it for muscle synthesis and utilize the naturally-occurring vitamins and minerals to support overall health.

Supports Bone Strength

Protein has been shown to have a positive association with bone strength, especially within the senior demographic. With bison possessing a very pure and high-quality source of protein, regularly consuming this lean meat can help improve muscle mass and bone strength, keeping individuals—particularly seniors—active and independent.

Great Source of Zinc

Just a 4-ounce bison patty can provide over 3 milligrams of zinc—an essential mineral for your immune system, metabolism, and healing wounds. Zinc from meat sources, such as bison, is more bioavailable than from vegetarian sources, which means that bison provides a form of zinc that’s easy for your body to absorb and utilize in the body.

Preventative Against Anemia

Anemia is associated with low intake or poor absorption of vitamin B12. Since bison is a good source of iron and vitamin B12, consuming it can help you avoid becoming anemic and experiencing symptoms of anemia such as fatigue, dizziness, paleness, and a rapid heart rate.

Cast Iron Skillet Ground Bison Brown Rice

FAQ For the Cast Iron Skillet Ground Bison Brown Rice

Q: What ingredients are needed for the cast iron skillet ground bison brown rice recipe?
A: To make the cast iron skillet ground bison brown rice recipe, you will need ground bison, cooked brown rice, onions, garlic, bell peppers, olive oil, salt, pepper, and your choice of seasonings such as paprika, cumin, or chili powder. You may also add vegetables like tomatoes or spinach for extra flavor and nutrition.

Q: How do you cook the cast iron skillet ground bison brown rice recipe?
A: To cook the cast iron skillet ground bison brown rice recipe, start by heating olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and bell peppers, sautéing until they soften. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Then, add the ground bison, cooking and breaking it up until it is browned and cooked through. Season with salt, pepper, and your preferred seasonings. Finally, stir in the cooked brown rice and cook until everything is heated through.

Q: Can I substitute ground bison with another protein in the cast iron skillet ground bison brown rice recipe?
A: Yes, you can substitute ground bison with other proteins in the cast iron skillet ground bison brown rice recipe. Ground beef, turkey, or chicken are good alternatives. The cooking method remains the same, though cooking times may vary slightly depending on the protein used.

Q: How can I make the cast iron skillet ground bison brown rice recipe more flavorful?
A: To make the cast iron skillet ground bison brown rice recipe more flavorful, you can add additional seasonings and spices such as smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, or fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley. Using a variety of vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes can also enhance the dish. Adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce can provide extra depth of flavor.

Q: Is the cast iron skillet ground bison brown rice recipe suitable for meal prep?
A: Yes, the cast iron skillet ground bison brown rice recipe is suitable for meal prep. You can prepare a large batch and store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well; divide the mixture into portion-sized containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove until heated through for a quick and nutritious meal.

Other Bison Recipes to Try

Dutch Oven Bacon Wrapped Bison Meatloaf Recipe

Cast Iron Skillet Ground Bison and brown rice Bowl Recipe

Cast Iron Skillet Ground Bison Vegetable Stew Recipe

Easy Dutch Oven Blueberry Bison Chili Recipe

Cast Iron Skillet Bison Tater Tot Casserole

Cast Iron Skillet Ground Bison & Brown Rice

Cast Iron Skillet Ground Bison & Brown Rice

The cast iron skillet ground bison & brown rice is one of our favorite meals when we cook outside. It's nutritious and packed with protein. The bison offers a rich, flavorful taste. Unlike beef, it’s leaner and healthier. This dish is also great because brown rice is a complete protein, making it a perfect pair with bison. We enjoy making this cast iron skillet ground bison & brown rice because it’s easy to use. You can add any vegetables you like or have on hand.
5 from 1 vote
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4 Servings
Calories 307 kcal

Equipment

  • Kitchen Twine
  • mixing bowl
  • Cast Iron Skillet
  • Grill Grate
  • knives
  • Campfire Cooking Utensils
  • Campfire Serving Utensils
  • Campfire Fork Or Tongs
  • fire proof cooking gloves
  • Cast Iron Dutch Oven
  • Foil Paper Non Stick

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground bison
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 tsp salt ground
  • 1/4 tsp pepper ground
  • 1/2 to 1 tsp cumin ground
  • 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 cups corn peas carrots frozen
  • 1 cup 1 cup rice brown
  • 2-3 cups chicken stock
  • 4 cups packed torn greens

Instructions
 

  • The first step of making the cast iron skillet ground bison & brown rice is to start your fire or charcoals. You will using them for the cast iron skillet ground bison & brown rice, so you will want to make sure you have plenty on hand.
  • If using embers, get a large fire going using (preferably) hardwood and let it slowly burn down. This process from start to finish can take upwards of an hour.
  • If using charcoals, fill a large chimney starter and light. This process will take approximately 20 minutes to get all the coals hot and ready. You will likely want to have some charcoals available in reserve.
  • Add A grill grate for your Dutch oven or a tripod to hang it over the fire
  • In a large cast iron skillet, cook bison, onion, and garlic until bison is browned. Be sure to break up the pieces as you cook. Stir in salt, pepper, cumin to taste, cayenne, and tomato paste and vegetables.
  • Stir in quinoa, then add 2 cups chicken stock. Bring to a light boil, then cover and reduce heat. Let simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally and adding more stock as needed to prevent sticking and allow grains to cook.
  • To served remove from the fire and dig in.

Nutrition

Calories: 307kcalCarbohydrates: 7gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 83mgSodium: 601mgPotassium: 570mgFiber: 0.5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 182IUVitamin C: 3mgCalcium: 25mgIron: 4mg
Keyword bison, bison and brown rice, brown rice
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

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1 comment

BdRecipes July 12, 2024 - 11:52 pm

5 stars
Easy meal for a quick campfire recipe.

Comments are closed.

5 from 1 vote