What is goat meat? And what does goat meat taste like? I got the tea for you!
Growing up, goat meat was not a slice of meat we ate every day. It was more of a delicacy reserved for special occasions or holidays.
I remember my mom cooking goat meat as a replacement for beef in one of our local Nigerian dishes.
What Is Goat Meat?
Goat meat refers to the flesh from the meat of goats. The meat comes from animals that are raised specifically to be eaten.
In most cases, goat meat is considered red meat and is usually very lean because it doesn’t have much fat content.

What Does Goat Meat Taste Like?
There is no one answer to this question, as goat meat can vary widely in taste depending on several factors. These include the age and breed of the goat, what the animal was fed, and how the meat was prepared.
In general, however, goat meat is slightly gamey with a delicate flavor. It is also leaner and tougher than other types of meat, such as beef or chicken.
However, goat meat can be extremely tender and juicy when cooked properly.
It has a slightly gamier flavor than lamb, making it perfect for people who love strong flavors.
The main difference between goat meat and other types of red meats is that goat meat has a stronger flavor than beef.
Why You Should Try Goat Meat
- Flavor – If you haven’t tried goat meat before, you’re in for a treat. Compared to lamb, goat meat is slightly sweeter and more delicate in flavor.
- Healthier – Goat meat is leaner, making it a healthy option for those looking to cut down on fat. And that’s scratchy the surface of the health benefits of goat meat.
- Versatility – Goat meat is also incredibly versatile and can be used in various dishes, from stews and roasts to curries and tacos.
Types, Flavors, and Textures of Goat Meat
Goat meat is a type of red meat that comes from a domesticated goat. The flavor of goat meat can vary depending on the age and breed of the goat and what the animal was fed.
For example, younger goats tend to have softer, more delicate flesh, while older adult goat meat tastes tougher and stronger.
Some people compare the flavor of goat meat to lamb or venison. I like the taste of goat meat better than deer meat!🤷🏾♀️
As for texture, goat meat can range from tender to chewy. It is often used in stews and curries because it stands up well to long cooking times.
If you want something new to try, why not give goat meat a chance? You might be pleasantly surprised by its flavor and versatility.

Where To Get Goat Meat
Goat meat can be difficult to find in grocery stores, but it can usually be ordered from specialty butcher shops or online retailers.
I’ve always had luck getting goat chops from the local African store.
When I lived in Alaska, I had the option of buying various cuts of goat from a local farmer. This is often the freshest option, plus you can split the cost with others and have the rancher butcher a whole goat for you and your friends for a lot less.
My coworkers were also avid hikers and hunters and often gifted me wild goat meat.
You can also find goat meat at many specialty grocery stores.
If you don’t have any luck there, try searching online – many reputable websites sell frozen or fresh goat meat.
Whatever option you choose, make sure to cook the meat properly. Goat meat is best when it’s cooked slowly over low heat. This helps to tenderize the meat and bring out its rich flavor.
Alternatives To Goat Meat
Luckily, a few alternatives to goat meat can provide the same or similar flavor and nutritional benefits.
Lamb
Lamb, for instance, is a slice of similar meat that is generally more tender and mild-tasting (source).
Poultry
If you’re looking for something even leaner, chicken or turkey are good choices.
Meat Substitutes
And for those who don’t eat meat at all, tofu can be a satisfying stand-in for goatmeat in many recipes.
What To Serve With Goat Meat
While it can be cooked in many different ways, goat meat is best when it is grilled, roasted, or stewed.
So what should you serve with goat meat?
- Vegetables: One great option is to pair prepared goat chops with vegetables. My favorite is Efo Riro, a Nigerian dish cooked with spinach, bell peppers, and a blend of spices.
- Rice or Pasta: Another option is to serve goat meat with rice or pasta. The hearty flavor of the meat pairs well with these starchy sides. If you haven’t tried curry goat or Nigerian goat meat stew, you’re in for a surprise.
- Fruits: This might sound like an unusual combination, but goat meat also goes well with fruit. Serve it with a salad that includes fresh berries.
- Burger: Apparently, a goat burger is a thing, and some people prefer this over beef burger. Here’s a simple goat burger recipe.
No matter how you enjoy it, goat meat is a versatile and delicious option for your next meal.
How to Make Nigerian Egusi Soup With Goat Meat

How To Make Egusi Soup
Trying to make a healthy and tasty meal can be difficult, especially if you're not familiar with African cuisine. Egusi soup is the perfect solution.
Ingredients
- 400 g ground melon seeds (egusi)
- 8 oz palm Oil or a little more or less depending on preference
- 3-4 tbsp locust beans
- 50 g chopped spinach
- 16 oz pepper mixture (bell pepper and habanero pepper)
- 1 large onion, ground/finely chopped
- 1-3 Stock cubes
- 1 lb beef
- 1/2 lb cow skin or beef tripe)
- 1/2 lb smoked fish ( or crayfish)
- 16 oz beef broth
- Salt To Taste
Instructions
- In a separate bowl, mix the ground melon and half of the onion together with a small amount of water (2-4 tbsp) until you get a lumpy paste.
- Add palm oil to saucepan and heat on medium heat. Be careful not to overheat the oil.
- Saute the remaining half of the onion in the hot palm oil.
- Add your onion-melon paste in lumps to the saucepan.
- Let the paste fry for about a minute or until it's darker in color, then delicately flip over.
- Remove the cooked lumps of melon and set them aside.
- Use the same oil to fry your onion and pepper mixture. Add the beef broth and locust beans. You can transfer for a bigger pot if needed.
- Cook for about 10-15 minutes until most of the water has evaporated and pepper sauce looks dark red.
- Add the smoked fish, cooked beef, cowskin, and prepared ground melon lumps.
- Now add your seasoning powder (stock cubes) and salt. Stir lightly so as not to break the fried egusi.
- Add your chopped spinach and stir. Let the soup cook for about 5 minutes.
- Serve hot with your favorite accompaniment (i.e., swallow) or rice, if you dare.
Notes
- Locust beans may be omitted from the dish if you are not a fan of its smell.
- If your soup is too thick, add some broth or water. Some people prefer egusi soup they can "scoop up" with their pounded yam and others prefer egusi with more sauce.
- The taste of your egusi soup will be remarkably different if you go with spinach instead of bitter leaf.
- If your soup is too bitter, consider washing your bitter leaves a little longer and changing the water frequently.
- You can add as much leafy greens as you want to this recipe. It's a great way to meet your daily fiber intake.
- Watch the amount of salt you add to the soup. It's easy for egusi to get too salty -due to salt from the broth and evaporation from the soup.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 1069Total Fat: 68gSaturated Fat: 31gTrans Fat: 1gUnsaturated Fat: 33gCholesterol: 148mgSodium: 1152mgCarbohydrates: 67gFiber: 22gSugar: 11gProtein: 63g
* Please note that all nutrition information are just estimates. Values will vary among brands, so we encourage you to calculate these on your own for the most accurate results.
How To Store Goat Meat
Here are a few tips for storing goat meat safely:
- Refrigerate goat meat as soon as possible after buying or butchering it if you plan on cooking it within a few days.
- If you won’t be using the meat within a few days, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or freezer paper and freeze it.
- Thaw frozen goat meat preferably in the refrigerator before cooking it (place it in the refrigerator overnight or for several hours).
- Cook meat thoroughly before eating it, and make sure to reheat leftovers until they’re steaming hot <- We Nigerians love our food H.O.T (literally and figuratively).
Following these simple guidelines will help ensure that your goat meat is fresh and delicious every time you enjoy it!
- This package contains one 50 square foot roll of Reynolds Kitchens Plastic Coated Freezer Paper
- Join us and Feeding America in the fight against hunger. For every online purchase you make in September, one meal will be provided to neighbors in need. *$1 helps provide at least 10 meals secured by Feeding America on behalf of member food banks.
- Plastic-coated side of freezer paper holds in moisture, flavor and nutrition and protects against freezer burn.
- KEEPS FOOD FRESH: Wrap and press for an airtight seal that prevents odors, leaks and freezer burn
- STICKS TO ITSELF: This strong plastic wrap clings to itself so there’s no need for tape or baggies
- LARGE SIZE: At 15 inches wide and 50% thicker, the wrap can can cover a whole dish and isn’t flimsy
- Keep Produce Fresh Longer: Produce containers for fridge with lids helps prevent spoilage, keep fruits and vegetables crisp and stay longer.
- Water Drain Tray: Fruit and vegetable storage containers with special water drain tray keep vegetables and fruits separately out of drippings.
- Perfect for Fridge Organization:Include 3 pack: Size: 11.5×4.7×2.8 inch. Various capacities can perfectly fit for produce, fruits, veggies, lettuces, celery, asparagus, berries, strawberries, blueberries, salad, bacon and more.
FAQ About What Goat Meat Tastes Like
Does Goat Meat Taste Like Lamb?
No, goat meat does not taste like lamb. A better comparison would be to beef. Goat meat is often compared to lamb because both are considered red meats. Generally, a goat is leaner than a lamb, while a lamb tends to be fattier.
Does Goat Meat Taste Good?
Coming from someone who has eaten many types of meat, I can tell you that goat meat tastes good. Unsurprisingly, some Nigerian delicacies like isi ewu are cooked exclusively with goat meat.
Does Goat Taste Gamey?
Actually, yes! Goat meat has a gamey taste, but the intensity depends on various factors, including the age and the cut of the meat you buy.
Who Eats the Most Goat Meat?
Goat meat is widely eaten across the globe. According to IndexBox, the leading consumers of goat meat in 2015 were China, India, Pakistan, Nigeria, and Sudan!
Conclusion
So what does goat meat taste like?
In a word, it’s intense.

Goat is very tasteful, with a strong, gamey flavor that some people compare to lamb. It can be a little tough, so it’s best cooked slowly to help tenderize the meat.
If you’re looking for an alternative to beef or lamb, goat is worth trying. Just be prepared for the distinct flavor!
Have you tried goat meat before? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
If you found this post helpful, you’ll love these related posts:
Leave a Reply