Frequently Asked Questions

HOW DO I COOK EMU?
COOKING TIPS The USDA recommends emu and ostrich be treated like beef in terms of internal cooking temperatures.  Emu and ostrich are both true red meats and are categorized as such by the USDA. Since emu and ostrich both have little fat, overcooking the meats may cause them to become dry and a bit tough.  You do not need specific emu or ostrich recipes to cook them.  Emu and ostrich are not gamey and do not require any special preparation. You can simply substitute emu and ostrich in place of beef, but just keep in mind that these meats cook quicker than beef.
  • GRILLED STEAKS/FILETS:  Chefs in culinary schools learn that grilled emu and ostrich steaks are best cooked no more than medium rare for optimal taste.  For optimal flavor and consistency, grill (or pan fry) steaks to an internal temperature of 125-130F degrees.   Then wrap in foil and let the steak rest for 5 to 10 mins to allow it to continue to cook and marinate in its own juices.  You can also cook the steaks to medium (130-140 degrees) if you prefer a more cooked steak.  For seasoning you can go simple (olive oil, salt, pepper), use a dry rub, or use a marinade—whatever you prefer.
  • ROASTS/STEWS:  Emu or ostrich roasts and stews can be slow cooked liked beef but requires less time.  Cook to preferred consistency.
  • GROUND/PATTIES:  Treat emu and ostrich ground like beef ground.  However since emu cooks faster, be careful not to overcook as it may dry out and toughen the meat.
  • STEAK STRIPS, STEAK BITES:  Emu and ostrich make wonderful steak bites or steak strips.  Cut the filets/steaks into strips or small cubes and pan fry.  Be careful not to overcook.  Serve with rice or vegetables.  Also works great for stir-fry.
NOTE:  Please feel free to CONTACT US if you have any cooking questions.  We will try to respond back as soon as possible.  We also can recommend recipes that we prefer in our own kitchen. Thank you for supporting our farm! - Amaroo Hills Family
WHAT DOES EMU MEAT TASTE LIKE?
Emu meat tastes similar to beef.  We’ve served emu meat to cattle farmers who’ve stated that they cannot tell the difference in taste or texture with beef.
WHAT ARE THE EMUS FED?
A proprietary feed formula which was developed to maximize the well-being of the animals. Since emus are omnivorous in the wild, they require not only grains but also additional nutrients and minerals.  

NOTE: Our feed formula will contain soy and corn as ingredients. 
HOW ARE YOUR MEATS PROCESSED?
All Amaroo Hills' products are processed in a USDA inspected facility. USDA regulations ensure the highest food safety standards. In addition, the processor will process only emus on the day of processing, thus reducing the risk of cross contamination. USDA regulations also ensure that the animals are processed in a humane manner. All meat cuts are vacuum sealed and frozen to ensure freshness. Similar to beef, prior to butchering, the whole bird is dry-aged to maximize flavor and tenderness.
WHAT FORMS OF PAYMENT DO YOU ACCEPT?
Credit cards and PayPal accepted for online orders. Credit cards, PayPal, and cash are accepted for on-farm purchases.
CAN PRODUCTS BE ADDED TO OR TAKEN AWAY FROM AN ORDER ONCE IT IS PLACED?
Due to our packing and shipping processes, all orders must be final. No products can be added to or taken away from an order once it has been placed. However, if you have already placed an order and would like to alter it, we can cancel and refund your initial order so that you can place a new order with the desired modifications.
HOW ARE THE MEATS SHIPPED?
See our Shipping FAQ Page.
CAN ORDERS BE PICKED UP ON THE FARM?
Yes. At checkout, you have the option to select "On-Farm Pickup." If you select this option when you place an order, please call or text us at ‪(615) 510-7542‬ to schedule a pickup time. Please schedule your farm pickup at least 24 hours in advance.
IS THERE A MINIMAL ORDER REQUIREMENT?
Currently, there is no minimum order required.
HOW DO I ORDER?
You can order online at our Farm Store or you can order by phone at (615) 510-7542.
WHERE ARE AMAROO HILLS PRODUCTS AVAILABLE?
MARKETS: 
RESTAURANTS: (past & current)  

 

NUTRITIONAL COMPARISON OF MEATS

Click HERE to see a nutritional comparison of emu and ostrich meat to other common meats such as beef, venison, and turkey.