Jackrabbit for dinner? Jeff Benda of Wild Game & Fish thinks that’s a great idea! From Jeff: When you pound the meat thin, season it well, and coat it in crushed cornflakes for a crunchy crust, jackrabbit transforms into tender rabbit steaks that rival classic chicken fried steak. He’s convinced us to give this featured recipe a try! ~ The Editors
This fried jackrabbit with gravy recipe transforms your jackrabbit into tender, crunchy country-fried rabbit steaks.
Can You Eat Jack Rabbit?
For years, I had been told that jackrabbit was no good for eating. Too tough. Too strong. Go ahead and shoot them, but better left in the field for the coyotes. Yet, like many stories in hunting and fishing, that advice often spreads faster than the truth. Over time, I’ve learned that many wild game myths fall apart the moment you apply thoughtful cooking techniques and trust your senses. As a wild game chef and full-time recipe developer, I’ve discovered that eating jackrabbit can be incredibly rewarding when prepared properly.
This Chicken Fried Jackrabbit with Gravy recipe proves the point beautifully. When you pound the meat thin, season it well, and coat it in crushed cornflakes for a crunchy crust, jackrabbit transforms into tender rabbit steaks that rival classic chicken fried steak. Even better, this recipe comes together in only 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy parents looking for an approachable jackrabbit recipe the whole family will enjoy.
I recently made this dish for my wife Melissa and our 10-year-old daughter on a busy weeknight. The sound of the cornflake coating sizzling in the pan, then the sight of the creamy gravy bubbling gently on the stove reminded me why I love sharing wild game meals with family and friends.
What is a Jackrabbit?
Despite the name, jackrabbits are not actually rabbits at all – they are hares. And yes, that technical detail often surprises people almost as much as learning that jackrabbit recipes can taste fantastic.
Jackrabbits are much larger than eastern cottontail rabbits and have longer legs built for speed and longer ears that help regulate body temperature. Their fur ranges from yellowish to grayish-brown on their backs with while bellies. Here in North Dakota and throughout the upper Midwest, jackrabbits molt to a striking white coat in winter, blending beautifully into snowy landscapes. Their tails remain white year-round, and the tips of their ears are always black.
Continue reading this recipe for Chicken Fried Jackrabbit with Gravy at the Wild Game and Fish website.
The Women's Outdoor News, aka The WON, features news, reviews and stories about women who are shooting, hunting, fishing and actively engaging in outdoor adventure. This publication is for women, by women. View all posts by The WON
