Goat testicles, also known as goat balls or rocky mountain oysters, are a delicacy that is eaten in many parts of the world. They are harvested from male goats that are castrated for meat production. But what do goat testicles taste like and are they safe and nutritious to eat? Here we explore the pros and cons of eating goat balls.
What are goat testicles?
Goat testicles, sometimes called goat fries or swinging sirloin, are the testicles of male goats that have been removed through castration. Castration is the process of removing the testicles of male animals and is done for a few reasons:
- To improve the flavor and texture of the meat
- To make the animals more docile and easier to handle
- To control breeding of livestock
When male goats are castrated, the testicles are often collected to be eaten as food. Goat balls are oval shaped, similar to chicken eggs, and are about 2-3 inches long. They have a soft, spongy texture and creamy white color.
Where are goat testicles eaten?
Eating goat testicles is surprisingly common across the world. Here are some of the main places they are consumed as a delicacy:
- United States – Goat balls are a specialty food in the Rocky Mountain states like Colorado, Wyoming and Montana. They are often served battered and fried.
- Jamaica – Known as “mannish water”, goat testicles are used to make a soup that is considered an aphrodisiac.
- Nigeria – Goat testicles are washed, boiled and served in a spicy stew called “abacha”.
- Mexico – In Northern Mexico, goat balls are breaded and fried and known as “criadillas”.
- Italy – In Sicily, goat testicles are used to top pizza or sautéed with pasta.
- Greece – Grilled and skewered goat testicles called “youvetsi” are popular street food.
As you can see, goat balls are appreciated all over the world! But why do people want to eat them?
What do goat testicles taste like?
The taste and texture of goat testicles depends on how they are prepared, but when cooked properly they are described as:
- Creamy, smooth texture
- Mild flavor
- Very tender
- Similar to sweetbreads or chicken gizzards
When fried or grilled, the outside gets crispy while the inside stays tender and juicy. The overall taste is subtle, without being gamey or overpowering. They take on the flavors of whatever seasonings or sauces they are cooked with.
Nutritional value of goat testicles
Many people eat organ meats like liver, kidney and heart for their high nutritional value. So how do goat testicles stack up nutritionally?
Goat testicles are an excellent source of:
| Nutrient | Per 3 oz serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 121 |
| Fat | 3.6 g |
| Cholesterol | 195 mg |
| Sodium | 74 mg |
| Potassium | 203 mg |
| Protein | 16 g |
| Vitamin B12 | 10.2 mcg |
| Selenium | 13.5 mcg |
| Zinc | 2.7 mg |
As you can see, goat testicles provide high quality protein and important micronutrients like B12, selenium and zinc. They are much higher in these nutrients compared to regular muscle meat.
Benefits of eating goat testicles
Here are some of the biggest benefits you can get from adding goat balls to your diet:
- High in protein – Goat testicles provide all the essential amino acids for building and maintaining muscle.
- Low in fat – With only 3.6 grams of fat per serving, goat balls are much leaner than high-fat cuts of meat.
- Rich in minerals – Goat testicles provide bioavailable forms of minerals like zinc and selenium that support immune function and fertility.
- Source of B12 – The B12 in goat testicles helps prevent anemia and protects nerve cells.
- Contains collagen – The collagen protein in goat balls promotes skin, hair, nail and joint health.
Overall, goat testicles are a nutrient-dense organ meat that can provide nutritional benefits.
Are there any downsides to eating goat testicles?
While goat testicles can be a highly nutritious food, there are a couple downsides to consider:
- High cholesterol – With 195 mg per serving, the cholesterol content is very high. This may be unsuitable for those with heart disease or high cholesterol.
- Risk of parasites – Goat testicles may contain parasites if they are not thoroughly cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Proper handling and cooking minimizes this risk.
- Strong flavor – Some people find the flavor of goat testicles to be unpleasantly strong. The taste can be masked by heavy seasoning and breading.
As long as you don’t have a health condition that requires limiting cholesterol, goat testicles can be safely enjoyed in moderation. Focus on proper storage, handling and cooking.
How to cook goat testicles
Goat testicles need special preparation before cooking. Here are some tips for prepping and cooking goat balls:
Prep tips
- Rinse under cold water and pat dry.
- Remove any remaining blood, fat or tissue.
- Soak in saltwater for 30 minutes to draw out blood.
- Remove outer membrane by making a small cut and peeling it off.
Cooking methods
- Fried – Most popular way to serve. Bread and fry until crispy.
- Grilled – Grill over high heat, basting with olive oil to prevent drying.
- Sautéed – Quick sauté in olive oil with garlic, herbs and lemon.
- Stewed – Simmer in tomato sauce or curry-based stew.
- Soup – Add to bone broth with vegetables for a nourishing soup.
Always cook goat testicles to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Eat them fresh within a few days for best quality and flavor.
Where to buy goat testicles
Wondering where you can actually buy goat testicles? Here are some places to find them:
- Specialty butcher shops and halal markets
- Farmers markets from local goat farms
- Asian supermarkets in the frozen or meat section
- Online from specialty meat purveyors
You may need to call ahead and special order them from a butcher. Be sure to cook them within a day or two of purchasing.
Conclusion
Goat testicles are an exotic, nutrient-dense organ meat enjoyed in many cuisines around the world. They provide a good source of high quality protein, important minerals like zinc and selenium, and collagen. When properly cooked, they have a mild, creamy flavor and tender texture.
Like other organ meats, they are high in cholesterol so should be eaten in moderation. But for the adventurous eater looking to try new delicacies, goat balls are worth seeking out. Just take care to handle them safely and cook thoroughly before eating.