Other
sheep brain.
VegetarianVeganGluten-freeDairy-freeNut-freePeanut-freeSoy-freeEgg-freeShellfish-freeHoney-freeAlcohol-free
SERVING
CALORIES
118
PROTEIN
13.1g
CARBS
0g
FAT
7.3g
FIBER
0g
This ingredient is flagged as naturally gluten-free. Per 100 g, it provides 2.8 µg of vitamin K.
NUTRITION PROFILE · per 100 g
Everything in this ingredient.
MACRONUTRIENTS
Calories118kcal—
Protein13.1g26%
Carbohydrates0g0%
Fiber0g0%
Sugar0g0%
Total fat7.3g9%
Saturated fat2.0g10%
Trans fat0g—
Cholesterol1336mg445%
Water78.4g—
MINERALS
Sodium122mg5%
Potassium312mg7%
Calcium10.3mg1%
Iron1.9mg11%
Magnesium14.1mg3%
Phosphorus271mg22%
Zinc1.1mg10%
Copper0.28mg31%
Manganese0.04mg2%
Selenium34.6µg63%
VITAMINS
Vitamin A1.6µg0%
Vitamin C0mg0%
Vitamin D1.1µg5%
Vitamin E0.09mg1%
Vitamin K2.8µg2%
Thiamin (B1)0.12mg10%
Riboflavin (B2)0.21mg16%
Niacin (B3)2.7mg17%
Pantothenic acid (B5)1.7mg35%
Vitamin B60.33mg19%
Biotin (B7)1.9µg6%
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 piece110g
HEALTH BENEFITS
Why eat it.
- ✓Extremely rich in omega-3 fatty acids, particularly DHA, which is crucial for brain health and cognitive function.
- ✓Excellent source of vitamin B12, essential for nerve function, DNA synthesis, and the formation of red blood cells.
- ✓Provides high levels of phospholipids like phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylserine, which support cell membrane structure and neurotransmitter function.
- ✓Good source of minerals such as phosphorus, selenium, and copper.
COOKING TIPS
In the kitchen.
- 1Before cooking, soak the brain in cold, salted water for 1-2 hours, changing the water occasionally. This helps to remove blood and firm up the texture.
- 2Carefully peel off the thin outer membrane and remove any visible blood vessels for a cleaner taste and texture.
- 3Cook gently to preserve its delicate, custard-like consistency. Poaching, scrambling with eggs, or pan-frying in butter are common methods.
- 4Pair with strong flavors like garlic, lemon juice, capers, and fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro) to complement its rich taste.
STORAGE
Keep it fresh.
- Store fresh brain in the coldest part of the refrigerator (below 40°F / 4°C) and use within 24-48 hours due to its high perishability.
- For longer storage, freeze immediately. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then a layer of foil or place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months at 0°F / -18°C.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
Is sheep brain healthy?
Sheep brain is highly nutrient-dense, offering significant amounts of omega-3 fatty acids (DHA) for cognitive health and Vitamin B12 for nerve function. However, it is exceptionally high in cholesterol, so it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How much protein and calories are in sheep brain?
A 100g serving of sheep brain contains approximately 117.59 calories and 13.05g of protein. It is a carbohydrate-free food with about 7.29g of fat, making it a protein-rich offal choice.
Is sheep brain keto-friendly?
Yes, sheep brain is excellent for keto and low-carb diets. It contains 0g of carbohydrates and provides healthy fats and high-quality protein, which helps maintain ketosis.
Is sheep brain halal or kosher?
Sheep brain is considered halal if the sheep was slaughtered according to Islamic dietary laws. It is also kosher (pareve) if the animal was slaughtered according to kashrut, though specific cleaning of blood vessels and membranes may be required.
What does sheep brain taste like?
Sheep brain has a very mild, delicate, and slightly nutty flavor. Its most distinctive feature is its texture, which is incredibly soft, creamy, and custard-like once cooked.
How do you prepare and cook sheep brain?
Before cooking, soak the brain in cold water and gently remove the outer membrane and any visible blood vessels. It is commonly prepared by poaching in acidulated water, pan-frying with butter and garlic, or breading and deep-frying for a crispy exterior.
Can I substitute sheep brain with anything else?
Calf or veal brain is the most direct substitute. If you are looking for a similar texture without using offal, firm silken tofu or very soft scrambled eggs can sometimes mimic the creamy consistency in specific dishes.
How do you store sheep brain and how long does it last?
Sheep brain is highly perishable and should ideally be cooked the day it is purchased. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or frozen in an airtight container for 2 to 3 months.
How do you know if sheep brain is fresh?
Fresh sheep brain should have a pinkish-white color, feel relatively firm rather than mushy, and have a clean, neutral smell. Avoid any specimens that appear grey, feel slimy, or have a strong 'off' odor.
What are the specific health benefits of the phospholipids in sheep brain?
Sheep brain is rich in phospholipids like phosphatidylcholine and phosphatidylserine. These compounds are essential for maintaining the structural integrity of cell membranes and supporting efficient neurotransmitter function in the human brain.
