Bear meat is considered a delicacy and is priced accordingly.
Bear meat has a high price in Romania PHOTO: Archive
Romania has one of the largest bear populations in Europe, but bear meat rarely ends up on people’s tables. This is because it is considered a delicacy and has a price that many cannot afford.
At a specialized store in Romania, two kilograms of bear meat costs between 472 and 500 lei, but there are also lower prices, 235 lei/kg, if those who want to buy bear leg, while the cutlet is sold for 285 lei/kg.
In our country, there are few stores where bear meat is sold, unlike in other countries, such as Japan where there are vending machines with this product. A portion of 250 grams costs the equivalent of 66 dollars (approximately 300 lei).
Bear meat consumption is highest in northern Japan, where it is sold canned and even as instant curry. It has a flavor that some have likened to that of venison and is often served in a stew.
“Bear meat has a clean taste and does not become tough“, a spokesperson for Soba Goro told Mainichi.
Bear meat is valued for its nutritional value.
“Bear meat is high in protein (25.6 g), low in fat (3.1 g) and carbohydrate-free, with a caloric value of approximately 130 kcal. It is an important source of B vitamins and vitamin PP, as well as essential minerals such as magnesium, manganese, selenium, potassium, zinc, iron, copper and phosphorus. Due to the accumulation of nutrients before hibernation, bear meat eaten in the fall can be beneficial for people with weakened immune systems. Bear meat is described as having an intense and rich taste, similar to beef, but with a stronger flavor. This can vary depending on the bear’s diet. In terms of texture, it is often tougher and may require slow cooking to become tender.”according to stiripesource.ro.
The meat of this type of game is usually marinated to improve its taste and tenderness and is cooked slowly, often in stews or in the oven. It can also be smoked or dried.
