Bull Testicles or Rocky Mountain Oysters on a Carnivore Diet

Bull Testicles Nutrition Facts

Bull testicles are considered organ meat, not muscle meat. Their nutritional profile differs from that of steak or ground beef, providing micronutrients that are harder to obtain from muscle meat alone.

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The table below shows the nutrients in 100 grams of raw bull testicles.

As the table shows, bull testicles are high in protein, relatively low in fat, and contain good levels of zinc and cholesterol, which are important in animal-based diets such as a Carnivore Diet.

Learn More: 10 Best Beef Organ Supplements for Women and Men

Are Bull Testicles Good on a Carnivore Diet?

Yes, bull testicles are fully Carnivore-friendly because they are animal-based, with no carbohydrates or additives. Mountain oysters can provide diversity for those on a Carnivore Diet who follow a nose-to-tail approach.

Unlike liver, which is extremely nutritious and can cause issues when overconsumed, bull balls are milder in flavor and nutrients. It means you can have them occasionally without an intense flavor or nutrient load.

Bull testicles are suitable for:

• Zero-carb Carnivore Diet
• Low-Carb Diet and Animal-Based Diet
• Keto Diet or Ketovore Diet

They are best treated as a supplemental organ meat, rather than a daily protein source.

It is best to consume bull balls as a supplemental organ meat, similar to heart or sweetbreads, to bring variety to the Carnivore Diet Meal Plan and Carnivore Diet Food List, and not as a main food or a daily protein source.

In addition to bringing variety to your Carnivore meals, bull testicles can bring different health benefits.

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The Benefits of Eating Bull Testicles

There are some myths about the magical effects of bull testicles on hormones. While no food directly increases testosterone levels in a pharmacological sense, bull balls do contain nutrients that help normal hormone production [1].

Bull testicles contain [2]:

• High-quality animal protein, which helps muscle growth and maintenance
• Zinc, which supports general metabolic function
• Cholesterol, which is essential for hormone synthesis

In addition to these benefits, there might be downsides to eating bull testicles. Let’s find out what we need to be careful about before eating bull testicles.

Potential Side Effects of Eating Bull Testicles

A common concern is that eating bull balls could disrupt hormones. However, cooking destroys most active hormones, and no reliable evidence shows that bull testicles raise or suppress testosterone.

Bull testicles do not act like hormone supplements, but hormonal side effects are extremely unlikely after eating bull testicles. The most common side effects of eating bull testicles include:

• Digestive Discomfort
• Cholesterol Sensitivity
• The Risk of Foodborne Illness

Learn More: Bone Marrow Nutrition Facts: Knowing the Carnivore Superfood

Digestive Discomfort

Some people experience mild digestive issues, especially if they are new to eating organ meats. Some may experience bloating, nausea, loose stools, and stomach heaviness.

These symptoms may appear because organ meats are denser and digest differently than muscle meat. They are also higher in cholesterol and connective tissue content.
You may also experience digestive discomfort if you are sensitive or eat large portions of bull testicles too quickly.

To avoid digestive issues, start with small servings (50-100 g), chew slowly and thoroughly, and avoid overeating, especially if it is the first time you are trying bull testicles.

Cholesterol Sensitivity

Bull testicles are high in dietary cholesterol, which may affect some individuals. You need to be cautious and consult your physician if you have familial hypercholesterolemia or have been advised by a clinician to limit cholesterol intake.

For most healthy individuals, dietary cholesterol does not directly result in higher blood cholesterol, but individual responses vary.

Learn More: How to Lower Cholesterol on Carnivore Diet? 10 Approved Ways

Risk of Foodborne Illness

As with all organ meats, improper handling increases the risk of foodborne illness. The risk is high if bull testicles are:

• Consumed raw or undercooked
• Sourced from non-food-grade suppliers
• Stored improperly

To avoid foodborne illness:

• Buy from reputable butchers or food-grade suppliers
• Keep refrigerated or frozen
• Cook to an internal temperature of 160°F (70°C)

Nutrients and food quality aside, many people wonder how bull testicles taste and whether they are really acceptable as a food source.

Learn More: Eating Raw Liver on a Carnivore Diet: Healthy or Dangerous?

How Do Bull Testicles Taste?

Bull testicles have a mild, neutral flavor. You will be surprised by how subtle they taste, especially compared to liver or kidney. Their texture is similar to Sweetbreads, firm tofu (before cooking), or calamari (when sliced and fried).

If you cannot prepare them properly, for example, if you fail to peel the membrane, it can result in a rubbery texture. But when cleaned and cooked correctly, Rocky Mountain oysters are tender and tasty, even for first-time eaters.

So, let’s learn how to prepare bull testicles properly to avoid unpleasant taste and texture and enjoy nutrient diversity on a zero-carb Carnivore Diet.

Learn More: 10+ Best Healthy Low Carb Meals for Keto and Carnivore Diet

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How to Prepare Rocky Mountain Oysters on a Carnivore Diet

Raw bull testicles are covered by a tough outer membrane that must be removed before cooking. Here are the steps to prepare Rocky Mountain oysters:

1. Remove the outer membrane using a knife or your hands.
2. Rinse thoroughly.
3. Chill briefly to firm the texture.
4. Slice or cook whole, depending on the recipe.

Carnivore-friendly cooking methods include:

• Pan-searing in beef tallow
• Deep-frying in animal fat
• Grilling over open flame
• Slow simmering, then searing

Avoid breading or plant-based coatings to keep the dish Carnivore-friendly.

5 Best Carnivore Diet Recipes with Bull Testicles

Let’s learn the 5 best recipes to make Carnivore Diet bull testicles.

Pan-Seared Bull Testicles in Beef Tallow

To make 2 servings of this dish, you just need 15 minutes and the following ingredients and instructions.

Ingredients:

• 300g (10-11 oz.) bull testicles
• 2 tbsp beef tallow
• 2 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Pat the cleaned bull testicles dry with a paper towel.
2. Slice them into 1-1.5 cm (½-inch) thick medallions.
3. Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Add the beef tallow and allow it to fully melt and become hot but not smoking.
5. Place the testicle medallions into the skillet in a single layer.
6. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
7. Cook an additional 1-2 minutes per side if you want a firmer texture or well-done finish.
8. Remove from the skillet, season with salt while hot, and serve immediately.

Nutrients per Serving:

Calories: 200 kcal | Protein: 26g | Fat: 8g | Carbohydrates: 0g

Learn More: Are Humans Carnivores? What Science Says about Eating Meat?

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Deep-Fried Carnivore Rocky Mountain Oysters

You can make 4 servings of this yummy dish in less than 30 minutes using the following ingredients and instructions.

Ingredients:

• 500g (1.1 lb) bull balls
• 4 tbsp Beef tallow for frying
• 3 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Slice the cleaned bull testicles into thin rounds.
2. Heat beef tallow in a deep skillet or heavy pot to 350°F (175°C).
3. Add the sliced bull testicles in small batches.
4. Fry for 3-4 minutes, turning once if needed, until golden brown and crisp.
5. Remove them from the skillet and allow excess fat to drain briefly.
6. Season with salt immediately while hot.
7. Repeat with the remaining batches and serve hot.

Nutrients per Serving:

Calories: 280 kcal | Protein: 28g | Fat: 18g | Carbohydrates: 0g

Grilled Bull Testicles

2 servings of these grilled bull testicles are ready in just about 20 minutes. You only need two main ingredients and the instructions below.

Ingredients:

• 300g (10-11 oz.) whole cleaned bull testicles
• 1 tsp salt

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat, about 375-400°F (190-205°C). Lightly oil the grates if needed to prevent sticking.
2. Pat the cleaned bull testicles dry with a paper towel.
3. Salt lightly on all sides.
4. Place the whole testicles directly on the grill over indirect to medium heat.
5. Grill for 15 minutes, turning every 5 minutes. The exterior should be lightly browned, and the interior should feel firm but not rubbery.
6. Remove from the grill and let them rest for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Nutrients per Serving:

Calories: 190 kcal | Protein: 25g | Fat: 6g | Carbohydrates: 0g

Learn More: Beef Liver Supplements on a Carnivore Diet: Pros and Cons

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Slow-Simmered Bull Testicles

Let’s learn how to make 3 servings of this slow-simmered bull testicles dish in 1 hour using only 3 ingredients and simple instructions.

Ingredients:

• 400g (14 oz.) bull testicles
• 1.5 liters (6 cups) of water
• ¾ teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Clean and remove the outer membrane of bull testicles.
2. Place the cleaned bull testicles into a medium saucepan.
3. Add enough water to fully cover the testicles by at least 2-3 cm (about 1 inch).
4. Bring the water to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce to a low simmer.
5. Simmer gently for 45 minutes. Keep the heat low to avoid toughening the meat.
6. Remove the testicles from the water and allow them to cool slightly.
7. Slice them into 1-1.5 cm (½-inch) thick rounds.
8. Sear the slices in a hot pan with a small amount of animal fat for 1-2 minutes per side.
9. Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrients per Serving:

Calories: 170 kcal | Protein: 24g | Fat: 4g | Carbohydrates: 0g

Learn More: 30-Day Carnivore Diet Meal Plan PDF (Downloadable File)

Carnivore Bull Testicle and Heart Skillet

To make 2 servings of this different and yummy Carnivore-friendly dish, you only need 20 minutes. Here are the ingredients and instructions.

Ingredients:

• 200 g (7 oz.) bull testicles
• 200 g (7 oz.) beef heart
• 1½ tablespoons beef tallow
• ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Cut the bull testicles and beef heart into small cubes.
2. Heat a heavy skillet over medium-high heat and add the beef tallow.
3. Add the beef heart cubes when the tallow is fully melted and hot.
4. Sear the heart for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned.
5. Add the cubed bull testicles to the skillet.
6. Continue cooking for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until both organs are cooked and lightly caramelized.
7. Season with salt and serve immediately.

Nutrients per Serving:

Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 40g | Fat: 12g | Carbohdrates: 0g

Learn More: Is Lamb Healthier than Beef for Keto and Carnivore Diets?

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Where to Buy Bull Testicles?

Bull testicles are not commonly found in grocery stores but are available through specialty suppliers. The most common sources to buy bull testicles include:

• Local butcher shops (special order)
• Online exotic meat retailers
• Ranchers and farms
• Frozen organ meat suppliers

When purchasing, look for:

• Food-grade handling
• Vacuum-sealed packaging
• Clear labeling (bull vs steer)

Frozen bull balls are acceptable and even more accessible than fresh ones.

Bull Testicles vs. Other Organ Meats

The table below compares bull testicles and other organ meats regarding their flavor, nutrients, and how common they are on a Carnivore Diet.

Bull testicles are in the middle ground, meaning that they are less intense than liver, newer than heart.

Learn More: 5 Best Keto Tuna Salad Recipes + Secrets, Tips, & Variations

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Who Should Be Cautious about Eating Bull Testicles?

You may want to limit or avoid bull testicles, or consult a healthcare professional if you:

• Have a diagnosed cholesterol disorder
• Are immunocompromised
• Have a history of foodborne illness sensitivity
• Are pregnant

FAQs

Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions about bull testicles or Rocky Mountain oysters on a Carnivore Diet.

Are Bull Testicles the Same as Mountain Oysters?

Yes, mountain oysters, bull balls, and cow balls all refer to bull testicles.

What Are Rocky Mountain Oysters Made of?

Rocky Mountain oysters are bull testicles, not seafood.

Are Bull Balls Safe to Eat?

Yes, if they are sourced from food-grade suppliers and cooked properly.

Do Bull Testicles Increase Testosterone?

No food directly increases testosterone, but bull testicles contain nutrients involved in hormone production.

Learn More: Cooking with Avocado Oil vs Olive Oil for Keto Diet Foods

Are Mountain Oysters Allowed on a Carnivore Diet?

Yes, they are 100% animal-based and Carnivore-friendly.

Why Do Cowboys Eat Bull Testicles?

They ate cow balls to avoid waste and maximize nutrients.