A Flavorful and Nutritious Game Bird

Partridges, featured in our organic poultry range in Oman, are medium-sized game birds prized for their tender, flavorful meat. As the first producer of partridge meat in the region, we raise these birds organically, ensuring sustainable, high-quality products. Below is a comprehensive overview of partridges, including their characteristics, nutritional benefits, culinary uses, and the advantages of our organic production methods.

Characteristics of Partridges

Partridges belong to the Phasianidae family, alongside quails and pheasants, and are part of genera such as Perdix (e.g., grey partridge) and Alectoris (e.g., red-legged partridge). Native to Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, they have been introduced to North America for hunting. Key traits include:

• • Size: Medium-sized, typically 11-16 inches long and weighing 350-500 grams, with our organic farming producing slightly larger birds for enhanced meat yield.
  • Appearance: Plump bodies, short tails, and rounded wings with variegated plumage in shades of grey, brown, tan, and white. Grey partridges have orange faces and chestnut markings, while red-legged partridges feature red beaks and pinkish legs.

• • Behavior: Ground-dwelling birds that prefer running to flying, though they can burst into flight when threatened. They live in groups called “coveys” and are monogamous, forming long-term pair bonds.

• • Habitat: Found in grasslands, farmlands, shrublands, and open woodlands, nesting on the ground in dense vegetation.

• • Diet: Omnivorous, feeding on seeds, leaves, buds, insects, and small invertebrates. Chicks primarily eat insects for protein.

Nutritional Profile of Partridge Meat

Partridge meat is lean, tender, and rich in nutrients, offering a distinct gamey flavor that’s milder than pheasant but more robust than chicken. A 100-gram serving of cooked partridge meat provides:

• Calories: ~200 kcal
• Protein: ~27 g (high-quality, complete protein with essential amino acids like lysine and leucine)
• Fat: ~9 g (low in saturated fat, with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids)
• Cholesterol: ~70-85 mg
• Carbohydrates: 0 g

Key vitamins and minerals include:

• Vitamin B3 (Niacin): Supports energy metabolism and skin health.
• Vitamin B6: Aids brain function and red blood cell production.
• Vitamin B12: Essential for nerve health and blood formation.
• Iron: Supports oxygen transport and prevents anemia.
• Selenium: An antioxidant that boosts immunity and thyroid function.
• Zinc: Promotes immune health and wound healing.
• Phosphorus: Supports bone and teeth health.

Health Benefits

Partridge meat offers several health benefits due to its nutrient density:

• Muscle Growth and Repair: High protein content supports muscle development and tissue recovery.
• Energy Boost: B vitamins, particularly niacin and B6, enhance energy production and metabolism.
• Heart Health: Low saturated fat and omega-3 fatty acids reduce inflammation and support cardiovascular health.
• Immune Support: Selenium and zinc strengthen the immune system.
• Anemia Prevention: Iron and B12 promote red blood cell production.
• Bone Health: Phosphorus contributes to strong bones and teeth.

In the Middle Ages, partridge was recommended as a “food of love,” believed to enhance vitality and passion, highlighting its historical reputation as a nutritious food.

Organic Production in Oman

Our partridges are raised with 100% organic standards, free from synthetic pesticides, hormones, and antibiotics. This ensures:

• Purity: Clean, natural meat with no harmful residues.
• Sustainability: Eco-friendly farming practices that protect the environment.
• Quality: Tender, flavorful meat from partridges fed organic diets in humane, stress-free conditions.

Our organic methods enhance the nutritional value and taste, aligning with our commitment to health-conscious and environmentally aware consumers.

Culinary Uses

Partridge meat is a delicacy in many cuisines, valued for its fine texture and gamey flavor. It’s best suited for young birds, as older ones may require added fat (e.g., bacon or lard) for moisture. Common preparations include:

• • Roasted or Grilled: Whole partridge, seasoned and cooked at 170-180°C for ~45 minutes to an internal temperature of 70°C, served with grilled vegetables or potato salad.
  • Pan-Seared: Breasts or thighs seared with bold marinades like orange, garlic, or honey for gourmet dishes.
  • Casseroles or Stews: Slow-cooked with brandy, cream, or chicken stock for rich, tender results.
  • Wrapped in Prosciutto: Enhances moisture and flavor, ideal for roasting.

One partridge typically serves one person, making it perfect for individual portions or a romantic meal for two. Its light meat pairs well with robust flavors like smoked chili or Madeira.

Storage and Shelf Life

Fresh partridge meat should be refrigerated at 4°C (39°F) and consumed within 6-7 days from packing or frozen for up to 6 months. Always check the use-by date on packaging.

Environmental and Cultural Significance

Partridges play a role in ecosystems by controlling insect and weed populations and aiding seed dispersal through their diet. Their presence indicates a healthy habitat, though some species, like the grey partridge, face declines due to habitat loss and pesticide use. Culturally, partridges are iconic, referenced in the Christmas carol “The Twelve Days of Christmas” and symbolizing Kurdish nationalism as the “Kew.”

Why Choose Our Partridges?

As Oman’s first producer of organic partridge meat, we offer a premium, sustainable product that stands out for its flavor, nutrition, and eco-conscious production. Our partridges are raised with care, delivering tender, nutrient-rich meat that elevates both everyday meals and gourmet dining. Choose our organic partridge for a healthy, delicious, and environmentally friendly addition to your diet.