Mutton — Nutrients, Health Benefits, and Shopping Tips

Mutton should have a deep red color, indicating that it is mature and well-aged. The fat around the meat should be creamy white, which contributes to its rich flavor and moistness when cooked. The texture should be firm to the touch, suggesting the meat is fresh and of high quality.

Avoid mutton that appears dry or has a dull, pale color, as this can indicate poor handling or aging. Properly prepared mutton should offer a robust, slightly gamey flavor that is well-suited for slow-cooked dishes like stews and roasts.

Raw mutton should be kept in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or butcher paper. Store it in the coldest part of the fridge to keep it fresh for up to five days. Freezing is recommended for longer storage.

Leaving mutton exposed to air can cause it to spoil quickly. Avoid storing it in the refrigerator door where temperatures vary. Always cook mutton within the recommended timeframe and use separate utensils to prevent cross-contamination with other foods.

Mutton can last for 1-2 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, mutton can be frozen for up to 6-9 months. Proper packaging, such as vacuum-sealing, helps maintain its quality over longer storage periods.

Leftover mutton can be used in a variety of rich and flavorful dishes. Shred the meat and add it to stews or soups for added depth, or mix it into a curry with spices, tomatoes, and coconut milk. Mutton is also great when used as a filling for meat pies or pasties, where its tender texture shines.

Use mutton in a casserole with root vegetables and a thick gravy, or mix it into a pasta dish with a robust sauce. If you have a lot of mutton, consider making a batch of mutton tacos with fresh salsa and avocado, or using it as a topping for pizzas or flatbreads. Mutton can also be added to a shepherd’s pie with mashed potatoes on top, or used as a filling for stuffed vegetables. For a quick snack, reheat the mutton and serve it with flatbread and a yogurt-based dipping sauce.

Mutton is a flavorful source of high-quality protein, supporting muscle health and tissue repair. It is also rich in iron, promoting blood health by preventing anemia, and contains B vitamins, supporting brain function and energy metabolism. Mutton contains healthy fats, including omega-3s, which promote heart health by reducing inflammation.

However, due to its higher fat content, mutton should be consumed in moderation for weight management.