Fried Beaver Tail

Photo: flickr user Evan Prodromou

Ingredients

2 Beaver tails

1/2 cup Vinegar

1 tablespoon Salt

2 teaspoons Baking soda

1/4 cup Flour

1/2 teaspoon Salt

1/4 teaspoon Freshly-ground black pepper

1/4 cup Butter

1/4 cup Sherry or cooking wine

1 teaspoon Dry mustard

1 teaspoon Sugar

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

Preparation

Skin beaver tails, clean thoroughly and wash well in a solution of salt water. Let soak overnight in cold water to cover, adding 1/2 cup vinegar and 1 tablespoon salt to the water.

The next day, remove from the brine, wash, then cover with solution of 2 teaspoons baking soda to 2 quarts water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer 10 minutes. Drain.

Dredge beaver tails in seasoned flour. Melt butter in heavy fry pan and saute tails at low heat until tender.

Mix wine with mustard, sugar, garlic powder and Worcestershire sauce. Add to beaver tails and simmer gently for 10 minutes, basting frequently.

Indian Affairs and Northern Development, Ottawa, Canada