Other
calf spleen.
VegetarianVeganGluten-freeDairy-freeNut-freePeanut-freeSoy-freeEgg-freeShellfish-freeHoney-freeAlcohol-free
SERVING
CALORIES
91
PROTEIN
17.7g
CARBS
0g
FAT
2.1g
FIBER
0g
NUTRITION PROFILE · per 100 g
Everything in this ingredient.
MACRONUTRIENTS
Calories90.6kcal—
Protein17.7g35%
Carbohydrates0g0%
Fiber0g0%
Sugar0g0%
Total fat2.1g3%
Saturated fat1.0g5%
Trans fat0g—
Cholesterol360mg120%
Water78.7g—
MINERALS
Sodium67.9mg3%
Potassium372mg8%
Calcium10.6mg1%
Iron25.4mg141%
Magnesium18.9mg5%
Phosphorus274mg22%
Zinc2.0mg18%
Copper0.19mg21%
Manganese0.04mg2%
Selenium41.3µg75%
VITAMINS
Vitamin A6.3µg1%
Vitamin C0mg0%
Vitamin D0.29µg1%
Vitamin E0.10mg1%
Vitamin K2.5µg2%
Thiamin (B1)0.09mg8%
Riboflavin (B2)0.28mg22%
Niacin (B3)7.6mg48%
Pantothenic acid (B5)6.8mg137%
Vitamin B60.44mg26%
Biotin (B7)3.6µg12%
Folate (B9)0µg0%
%DV based on a 2,000 cal diet. Source: USDA FoodData Central. A dash in the %DV column means there’s no established Daily Value for that nutrient.
MEASUREMENT CONVERSIONS
How much is what.
1 oz28.4g
1 lb453.6g
1 piece250g
HEALTH BENEFITS
Why eat it.
- ✓Extremely rich in heme iron, which is highly bioavailable and effective in preventing and treating iron-deficiency anemia.
- ✓Excellent source of Vitamin B12, crucial for neurological function, DNA synthesis, and red blood cell formation.
- ✓Provides high-quality complete protein, essential for building and repairing tissues and producing enzymes and hormones.
- ✓Contains significant amounts of selenium, a powerful antioxidant that protects against cell damage and supports immune function.
COOKING TIPS
In the kitchen.
- 1To mellow its strong, irony flavor, soak the spleen in milk or salted water for 30-60 minutes before cooking, then rinse and pat dry.
- 2Calf spleen cooks very quickly. Pan-fry thin slices over medium-high heat for just a few minutes per side until browned.
- 3It can be ground and mixed into meatballs, meatloaf, or pâtés to add richness and a significant nutritional boost.
- 4In traditional dishes like Italian 'Pani ca meusa', it is boiled, sliced, and then fried in lard before being served in a bun.
STORAGE
Keep it fresh.
- Refrigerate immediately at or below 40°F (4°C) in its original packaging or an airtight container and cook within 1-2 days.
- For longer storage, wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then heavy-duty foil or a freezer bag, and freeze at 0°F (-18°C) for up to 3 months.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
Is calf spleen healthy?
Yes, calf spleen is a highly nutrient-dense organ meat. It is exceptionally rich in heme iron and Vitamin B12 while remaining low in calories and fat, making it excellent for supporting blood health and energy levels.
How much protein and calories are in calf spleen?
A 100g serving of calf spleen contains approximately 90.58 calories and 17.71g of high-quality protein. It is a lean protein source with only about 2.12g of fat and zero carbohydrates.
Is calf spleen good for treating anemia?
Yes, calf spleen is one of the best dietary sources of heme iron, which is highly bioavailable and easily absorbed by the body. This makes it very effective for preventing and treating iron-deficiency anemia.
Is calf spleen keto-friendly?
Calf spleen is excellent for keto and low-carb diets because it contains 0g of carbohydrates. It provides essential vitamins and minerals that can sometimes be lacking in restrictive diets.
Is calf spleen gluten-free?
Naturally, calf spleen is 100% gluten-free. However, if you are purchasing it pre-prepared or dining out, ensure that no flour-based breading or gluten-containing sauces were used during the cooking process.
What does calf spleen taste like?
Calf spleen has a rich, earthy, and slightly metallic flavor similar to liver, though often described as milder. Its texture is unique—soft and somewhat spongy when cooked correctly.
How do you cook calf spleen?
It is commonly braised, stewed, or sliced thin and pan-fried with onions and garlic. In some cuisines, it is stuffed with herbs and breadcrumbs or used in traditional recipes like Sicilian 'Pani câ Meusa'.
How do you store calf spleen and how long does it last?
Fresh calf spleen should be stored in the coldest part of the refrigerator and used within 1 to 2 days. For longer storage, it can be frozen in airtight packaging for up to 4 months.
How can you tell if calf spleen is fresh?
Fresh calf spleen should have a bright, deep red color and a firm, moist surface. Avoid any meat that feels slimy, has a greyish tint, or emits a sour or ammonia-like odor.
Do I need to peel or prep calf spleen before cooking?
Yes, it is recommended to remove the tough outer membrane before cooking to ensure a tender result. Many chefs also suggest soaking the spleen in cold water or milk for an hour to mellow the strong mineral flavor.
