Nutritional Benefits of Matured Goat Meat: A Canarian Gastronomic Treasure

At the heart of Canarian gastronomy, one ingredient is revolutionising the culinary scene: matured goat meat. This delicacy, the result of centuries of tradition and modern maturation techniques, not only delights the most demanding palates but also offers a wide range of nutritional benefits. Chef Diego Schattenhofer, awarded a Michelin star at his restaurant Taste 1973, has spent years researching and experimenting to raise this local produce to new gastronomic heights.

Chef Diego Schattenhofer: Behind the Scenes Working on a New Book

Matured Goat Meat: A Journey from the Past to the Future

The history of the goat in the Canary Islands dates back to pre-Hispanic times. These animals, known for their adaptability and hardiness, have been an integral part of Canarian culture and economy for centuries. Today, thanks to the maturation techniques developed by innovative chefs such as Diego Schattenhofer, goat meat is undergoing a culinary revival.

History and Tradition of the Canarian Goat: A Gastronomic Journey Through Time

Nutritional Profile of Matured Goat Meat

Matured goat meat stands out for its exceptional nutritional profile. Rich in high-quality protein and low in saturated fat, it offers a healthy alternative to other red meats. Let’s look in detail at its nutritional composition:

Health Benefits

1. Supporting Cardiovascular Health

Matured goat meat is naturally low in saturated fat and rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making it a heart-healthy choice. Recent studies suggest that regular consumption of goat meat can help maintain healthy cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.

2. Muscle Building and Repair

With its high content of essential amino acids, matured goat meat is ideal for athletes and active people. It provides the building blocks needed for muscle development and repair, supporting recovery after exercise.

3. Strengthening the Immune System

Rich in zinc and selenium, matured goat meat helps boost the immune system. These minerals are crucial for the production of immune cells and protection against oxidative stress.

4. Supporting Bone Health

The calcium and phosphorus content in goat meat contributes to bone health. In addition, goats raised outdoors in the Canary Islands produce meat rich in vitamin D, essential for calcium absorption.

5. Weight Management and Diabetes

With its low calorie content and high protein value, matured goat meat is an excellent choice for anyone looking to control their weight. Its low glycaemic index also makes it suitable for people with diabetes or at risk of developing it.

6. Antioxidant Benefits

Matured goat meat contains natural antioxidant compounds that help fight oxidative stress and inflammation in the body. These antioxidants are enhanced during the maturation process, offering additional health benefits.

Maturation: Enhancing Flavour and Nutrition

The maturation process not only improves the flavour and texture of the meat, but also enhances its nutritional profile. During maturation, biochemical changes take place that result in:

• An increased concentration of free amino acids
• Improved protein digestibility
• The development of aromatic compounds that heighten flavour

At Taste 1973, Chef Diego Schattenhofer has perfected the art of maturation, achieving a product that is not only delicious but also highly nutritious.

Culinary Innovation: From the Laboratory to the Table

Chef Diego Schattenhofer’s research into matured goat meat is a perfect example of culinary innovation. In collaboration with scientific institutions such as CSIC and ICIA, Schattenhofer has carried out extensive studies into the nutritional and organoleptic properties of matured goat meat.

This research has given rise to innovative culinary applications, such as:

• Tataki of matured goat with a palm honey (miel de palma) reduction
• Goat carpaccio with a Canarian almond dressing
• Matured goat ravioli with Majorero cheese (PDO) sauce

The Magic of Matured Goat Meat: An Evolution Through Interdisciplinary Scientific Research

Sustainability and Environmental Benefits

Goat meat production in the Canary Islands offers not only nutritional benefits, but environmental ones too:

• A smaller carbon footprint compared with beef production
• The use of arid land unsuitable for other types of livestock farming
• The preservation of native breeds such as the Majorera goat and the Palmera goat

How to Include Matured Goat Meat in Your Diet

To make the most of the benefits of matured goat meat, here is a simple and delicious recipe:

Matured Goat Loin with Mojo Verde

Ingredients:

• 400g (14 oz) matured goat loin
• 2 cloves of garlic
• 1 bunch of fresh coriander
• 60ml (2 oz) extra virgin olive oil
• 30ml (1 oz) white wine vinegar
• 1 green pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste

Method:

1. Season the goat loin with salt and pepper. Leave to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes.
2. For the mojo verde, blend the coriander, garlic, green pepper, olive oil and vinegar in a blender until you have a smooth sauce.
3. Cook the goat loin on a hot griddle or in a hot frying pan, 3-4 minutes on each side for medium.
4. Leave the meat to rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
5. Serve the loin in thin slices, accompanied by the mojo verde.

This recipe highlights the natural flavours of matured goat meat, complementing it with fresh mojo verde, the coriander sauce typical of Canarian cuisine.

For a perfect pairing, we recommend serving this dish with a red wine from the Tacoronte-Acentejo wine region, whose mineral and fruity notes wonderfully complement the goat meat.

Matured goat meat is not only a gastronomic delicacy, but also an outstanding source of essential nutrients. Its health benefits, combined with its unique flavour and sustainable production, make it an ideal food for anyone seeking a balanced, tasty diet.

We invite you to discover for yourself the benefits and unmatched flavour of matured goat meat at Taste 1973, where Chef Diego Schattenhofer and his team have raised this local produce to new culinary heights.