Water buffalo is part of the bovine family, which originates from the southern parts of Asia. They are the second most abundant type of wild cattle that can be seen in the wild. They live in muddy waters and swamps of tropical and subtropical areas, and they are used as a transportation system for the transfer of heavy loads and people. Because of that, water buffalo were dubbed as “tractor of the East.”
There are 74 breeds of domestic water buffalo numbering some 165 million animals, but only small numbers of wild water buffalo remain. They are already considered as endangered species, with less than 4000 animals remaining in the wild.
Water Buffalo Trivia
- Water buffalo can survive up to 9 years in the wild and up to 25 years in captivity.
- They use their horns to protect against predators such as tigers, lions, and crocodiles.
- Due to high outer temperature, they spend the majority of their day submerged in the muddy waters.
- Water buffalo can run very fast when they are in danger. Their average speed is 30 miles per hour.
- Mating season of water buffalo takes place during the rainy season.
- Females give birth to a single baby every second year after a pregnancy lasting between 9 and 11 months.
- Their milk contains the highest percent of fats compared to other species of wild cows.
Water Buffalo Buying Guide
When buying the meat of water buffalo, it’s best to get it locally, if at all possible. The meat should be substantially free from injuries such as bruises nor discolorations. The surface of the meat should not be too dry or too wet, and it should not have any blood splashes.
The fat is white, and the meat has quite a dark red appearance because of more pigmentation and less intramuscular fat or marbling.
Water Buffalo Production & Farming in Texas
Many people assume that raising water buffaloes can be difficult, but that’s not true. Growing water buffaloes doesn’t require that much work as you think it would. They do well without any assistance since they are versatile creatures. If you have an extensive grassland, you will not encounter problems in raising water buffaloes. They can grow in a pasture all year round and reduce your expenses in buying feed. You can raise big, healthy, profit-paying water buffaloes if you will merely meet certain clearly defined water buffalo requirements.
Aside from the meat, which is a preferred substitute for beef and lamb from the health-conscious perspective, water buffalo has other primary uses worldwide, including milk and other by-products such as hides and horns. Production of water buffalo makes an essential contribution to economic development, rural livelihood, poverty alleviation, and meets the fast-growing demand for animal protein requirements. They also have been used as draught animals for centuries as they have proper muscular development.
Geography:
Originally from Asia, the water buffalo was domesticated in India and China over 7000 years ago. The majority of modern historians believe that buffaloes were first tamed and then domesticated for working in various agricultural operations before 2500 B.C. in Mesopotamia. During ancient times, the wild Asian buffalo ranged across the south and southeast Asia from Mesopotamia to Indo-China. It is currently listed as endangered, with a world population fewer than 4,000, potentially fewer than 200, and it is even possible that no purebred wild animals exist.
Enjoying Water Buffaloes
The meat of water buffalo is relatively comparable to beef in terms of composition, quality, but it can also have a gamier flavor. It also has an added advantage of less fat, cholesterol, and calories. It has superior processing characteristics, and it is suitable for the development of value-added meat products.
Storage:
Water buffalo must be stored in the coldest section of the refrigerator. It must be frozen at -10 degrees F. to -30 degrees F. for preservational purposes. When the meat is quickly frozen, it will allow for the smallest amount of crystallization and extinguishes or arrests potential organisms that produce spoilage. The meat is then stored a 0 degrees F., and if kept frozen, the meat will retain its freshness for at least nine months.
Cooking:
Since water buffalo meat is very lean, the key to cooking it properly is low and slow. The ideal cooking process for top-quality steaks and roasts should be rare to medium-rare because of the low-fat content and to lock in the small number of juices. It should not be cooked beyond medium doneness: 160 degrees F internal temperature. Overcooking will risk the meat becoming dry and tough.
Try to avoid using salt-based seasonings as these will tend to further draw the moisture out of the meats. If you wish to season your meat, it is best to add the seasonings after the steaks or roast have been seared.
Nutrition
Water Buffalo meat is known for its nutritional qualities. It has been discovered for having higher levels of Omega 3, a fatty acid that is commonly found in marine and plant oils. It has about the same protein amounts as chicken, 45% more iron, 61% less saturated fat, and 33% less cholesterol when compared to other protein sources.
Vitamins and Minerals
Vitamin B: It has a direct impact on your energy levels, brain function, and cell metabolism.
Vitamin C: It is an essential nutrient that is required by the body.
Calcium: It is essential to all living things, particularly for the growth of healthy teeth and bones.
Iron: Plays a vital role in the conversion of blood sugar to energy, red blood cells production, transportation of oxygen around your body, and production of enzymes
Potassium: Important for your body’s electrolyte functions and essential elements to maintaining healthy blood pressure.
Phosphorus: An essential mineral primarily used for the growth and repair of body cells and tissues.
Sodium: Control blood volume and blood pressure, and it allows the properly working of muscles and nerves.
Zinc: Boost the immune system and promote healing.
Selenium: An extremely vital mineral for the human body as it increases protection from damage caused by free radicals.
