What Does Lung Taste Like?
Lung's taste is described inconsistently across different sources, highlighting the subjectivity of taste and the influence of preparation methods. Some describe it as having a somewhat dirty or earthy taste, potentially resembling the smell of a sheep's breath, while others note a more mild flavor profile.
Different accounts paint varying pictures of lung's taste:
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Earthy and slightly unpleasant: Some chefs and eaters describe a slightly off-putting "dirty" taste, potentially due to the organ's function and proximity to air passages. One chef described it as "a bit dirty-tasting" and likened it to the smell of sheep's breath. [Source: Building the Perfect Meal With Sheep Lungs and a Suitcase - The New York Times]
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Mild and comparable to other meats: Other sources suggest a more subtle flavor profile, with comparisons to chicken or a blend of deer and beef. The texture is sometimes described as spongy. [Source: Can you eat lungs? : r/NoStupidQuestions; What does a cow's lung taste like? - Too Many Thoughts]
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Irony flavor: A distinctive iron-like taste is also mentioned, potentially resulting from the blood content and the lung's role in oxygen exchange. [Source: Eating Lung - Lakota Times]
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Chewy and "poor man's food": The Reddit thread mentions that it has a chewy texture and is widely considered to be inexpensive. It's also noted that it requires a long cooking time. [Source: Why arent lungs largely eaten? : r/Cooking]
It's important to note that the taste of lung can significantly vary based on the animal's diet, age, and the preparation method. The cooking process plays a vital role in determining the final texture and taste. Some individuals may find the texture unappealing, contributing to its lower popularity as a food source.
Conclusion
The taste of lung is subjective and varies widely depending on preparation and animal type.