One of the most interesting farm visits we’ve ever had was at a bison farm. It’s amazing how big these creatures are–they’re taller than me and weigh way more than I do!–and seeing them up close made us appreciate them even more. If you haven’t been on a farm recently, this is one visit that your family will never forget! Inside this article, I share our adventure to Riffle Farms in West Virginia for a field harvest and Bison roast.
What Makes Bison Unique?
The bison is the largest land mammal in North America. Despite their size, they are quite agile and can run at speeds of up to thirty miles per hour for short bursts. They are also surprisingly good swimmers. Bison have no natural predators anymore due to hunting, so it is often said they are the only large animal that will not go extinct because of human intervention.
Bisons typically roam in grasslands and prairies, where they have access to enough food and water. Like most large animals, they are migratory creatures and travel long distances during the spring to where food is plentiful.
Creating Farm Friendships
Farm friends are the best. It’s hard to find people who can truly relate to the ups and downs of small farming. Big ideas, small budgets; so much to do, so little time; the endless “to do” list and all of the things you never thought you would ever have to do… like bottle feeding a sheep, raising baby chicks in your living room (that happened exactly once), or apologizing to your neighbor because your Great Pyrenees escaped and tried to come over for a playdate and scared the living daylights out of them.
Meeting Liz From Riffle Bison Farm
Last year I met Liz, the owner of Riffle Farm where they specialize in American Bison. Our passion for all things regenerative and “farm business” made us fast friends. In October, Chris and I traveled up to their farm in West Virginia for a field harvest and Bison roast. We left with a greater appreciation for the sacrifice that comes from eating meat and an even stronger sense of responsibility for ethical harvesting.
Harvesting Bison at Riffle Bison Farm
It all started early Friday morning. We arrived to find Bison roaming on their 65-acre farm. Chris fed their 2500 pound bull, Elvis and I took in the beauty of seeing animals raised in a way that mimics nature. Plenty of grass, rolling hills, and space to wander.
The field harvest was quick. It actually caught me off guard… One-shot and it was over. The Bison was eating grass and he never knew what hit him. Absolutely no stress or suffering. In the hour that followed, Chris joined in on the process of preparing it for the roast. I was amazed at the speed and skill of the butcher, Phil, who answered questions and allowed others to learn some basic skills in skinning and breaking down an animal. I was able to cut steaks from the tenderloin that we packaged and put in the freezer for future meals.
The next day we participated in a roast with a community of like-minded families that believe in knowing exactly where your food comes from. I am always humbled by the folk who love and support farms like ours. It’s a loyal group that keep us going. God bless them.
My First Time Trying Bison
I have to admit, I have never been very experimental with meat. I am primarily a chicken, beef and pork kind of girl, but I love supporting fellow farmers, so I decided to give this bison a try. And WOW, I am so glad I did. It was absolutely delicious. Liz loves to tell people about the fact that it’s leaner than chicken (lay off the chicken Liz, lol) and it’s so easy to cook. It’s definitely going to be a staple for our kitchen.
How To Prepare Bison Meat
Bison meat is a healthy alternative to beef because it has fewer calories and less saturated fat. It also contains more protein which is great for building muscle and can be substituted for beef in any dish. The best way to cook bison meat is to sear it on both sides over high heat, then finish it by roasting at 350F for about an hour or until you reach your desired level of doneness.
Visit A Bison Farm Near You
If you’re in the Hampton Roads area, you have to check out Riffle Farms. They have amazing cuts of meat as well as chili, meatballs, empanadas, and more. Also, we are now partnering with local farm friends to bring you What The Farm Buyers Club. It’s like a meat subscription for all the people that want to eat foods they know, trust and enjoy! Learn more about our Buyers Club here.
If you aren’t local, seek out a Bison farm in your area and give it a try!
No Experience Necessary,
Kelly
