Deer bacon, a popular dish in Austin, Texas, is made from ground venison, pork fat, and a combination of seasonings. Unlike traditional bacon, which is made from pork belly, deer bacon uses ground venison and pork fat to add the desired fatty flavor.
The preparation involves grinding the meat, seasoning it, and forming it into bacon slices. It is then cured and smoked to enhance the flavor. The end result is a sweet and smoky bacon that is perfect for breakfast or as an ingredient in various dishes.
If you’re looking for a unique and delicious bacon recipe, try making deer bacon at home.
How To Make Venison Bacon
Discover how to make mouthwatering venison bacon at home with this easy-to-follow deer bacon recipe. By combining ground venison with a fatty cut of pork, you can create the perfect balance of flavors and textures for delicious homemade bacon that will leave your taste buds wanting more.
Trimming And Weighing The Meat
Before you start making venison bacon, it’s important to trim and weigh the meat properly. Start by removing any excess fat or connective tissue from the venison. Make sure to trim off any silver skin as well, as it can be tough and chewy when cooked.
Once you have trimmed the meat, weigh it using a kitchen scale to ensure accurate measurements for the curing process.
Making The Maple Sugar Cure
One of the key ingredients in venison bacon is the maple sugar cure, which adds a touch of sweetness and helps preserve the meat. To make the maple sugar cure, combine ground venison with maple syrup, brown sugar, dry milk powder, and a dash of smoked paprika.
Grinding The Trim
Once the meat has been trimmed and weighed, it’s time to grind the meat. Use a meat grinder to grind the trimmed venison until it reaches the desired consistency. Grinding the meat helps distribute the flavors evenly throughout the bacon.
Seasoning The Bacon
After the meat has been ground, it’s time to season the bacon. In a bowl, combine the ground venison with the maple sugar cure mixture. Make sure all the meat is coated evenly with the seasoning. This step is important to ensure that each bite of bacon is packed with flavor.
Flipping And Seasoning
Once the meat is seasoned, it needs to be shaped into bacon strips. Lay the seasoned meat out on a baking sheet and flatten it with your hands or a meat press. Flip the bacon strips over and season the other side with any remaining seasoning mixture. This ensures that both sides of the bacon are equally flavorful.
Slicing The Bacon
Now that your venison bacon is seasoned and shaped, it’s time to slice it into strips. Use a sharp knife to slice the bacon to your desired thickness. Thinner slices will be crispier when cooked, while thicker slices will have a chewier texture. Enjoy your homemade deer bacon in a variety of dishes or simply enjoy it on its own!
Recipes And Methods
Learn how to make tasty deer bacon with this easy-to-follow recipe. Combining ground venison and a fatty cut of pork, this recipe ensures that you get the mouthwatering and delicious flavor of traditional bacon.
The Bearded Butchers’ Recipe
If you’re looking for a tried and true recipe for deer bacon, look no further than The Bearded Butchers’ method. These Austin-based butchers are known for their expertise in all things meat, and they’ve perfected their recipe for delicious venison bacon.
To start, they recommend weighing out the trim of your venison. This step ensures that you have the right proportion of meat for the curing process. Once the trim is weighed, it’s time to make the maple sugar cure. This blend of maple syrup, brown sugar, and dry milk powder adds a sweet and savory flavor to the bacon.
Next, the butchers grind the trim to the desired consistency. This step helps to distribute the cure evenly throughout the meat. Once the meat is ground, it’s time to season the bacon. The Bearded Butchers recommend using their signature blend of spices, but you can also experiment with your own flavor combinations.
After seasoning, the bacon needs to rest for a designated period of time to allow the flavors to develop. Once the bacon is fully cured, it’s time to smoke it. The Bearded Butchers recommend using a pellet grill for this step, as it imparts a rich and smoky flavor to the bacon.
Once the bacon is smoked to perfection, it’s time to slice and enjoy. Whether you use it in sandwiches, burgers, or as a standalone snack, The Bearded Butchers’ recipe is sure to impress.
Ps Seasoning’s Recipe
Looking for a simpler method? PS Seasoning has you covered. Their recipe for venison bacon is straightforward and easy to follow.
Start by mixing the ground venison with water to aid in protein extraction. This step helps to bind the meat together and create a uniform texture. Once the meat is mixed, it’s time to add the seasoning. PS Seasoning offers a variety of flavors to choose from, so you can customize your bacon to your preferences.
After seasoning, the bacon is ready to be fried. PS Seasoning recommends cooking it until it reaches your desired level of crispiness. Once cooked, it’s time for the ultimate taste test. Take a bite and savor the delicious flavors of homemade venison bacon.
Dead Broke Bbq’s Recipe
If you’re a fan of barbecue flavors, you’ll love Dead Broke BBQ’s recipe for venison bacon.
Start by measuring out your seasonings to ensure the perfect balance of flavors. Dead Broke BBQ recommends using a combination of spices that complement the rich and smoky nature of venison bacon.
Once the seasonings are measured, it’s time to grind the venison. This step ensures that the meat is evenly mixed and allows the flavors to penetrate every inch of the bacon. After grinding, it’s time to season the meat and mix it thoroughly.
Dead Broke BBQ recommends molding and pressing the bacon to create a uniform shape. This step helps to ensure even cooking and allows the bacon to retain its shape during the smoking process. Once molded, it’s time to cook and smoke the bacon until it reaches the ideal temperature.
Once cooked, it’s time to slice and savor the flavors of Dead Broke BBQ’s venison bacon. Whether you enjoy it as a breakfast staple or incorporate it into your favorite dishes, this recipe is sure to please.
Cooking And Serving Venison Bacon
Discover the perfect recipe for cooking and serving delicious venison bacon. Made from a combination of ground venison and pork, this mouthwatering treat is a must-try for any bacon lover.
Cooking And Smoking Techniques
When it comes to cooking and serving venison bacon, there are a few techniques that can take your dish to the next level. Let’s dive into the details:
- Start by mixing ground venison with a fatty cut of pork, such as pork belly, to add the desired richness to your venison bacon.
- For optimal flavor, consider using a seasoning blend that complements the natural taste of venison. Many recipes suggest ingredients like maple syrup, brown sugar, dry milk powder, and smoked paprika.
- When ready to cook, there are various methods to choose from, including frying, grilling, or even smoking the venison bacon. Each technique offers a unique flavor profile and texture.
- If you prefer to smoke your venison bacon, using a pellet grill can give it that delicious smoky flavor. Make sure to follow proper smoking techniques to achieve the desired result.
Determining Doneness
Knowing when your venison bacon is cooked to perfection is crucial for a delightful dining experience. Here’s how to determine its doneness:
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the venison bacon. The ideal temperature can vary depending on personal preference, but it is generally recommended to cook it to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) to ensure it is fully cooked.
- Observe the texture and appearance of the bacon. It should have a crispy exterior and a slightly chewy interior. Overcooking can result in dry and tough bacon, while undercooking may leave it too soft and raw.
- Take note of the color of the bacon. It should be golden brown with caramelized edges, indicating that it has been cooked thoroughly.
Slicing And Taste
Once your venison bacon is cooked and has reached the desired doneness, it’s time to slice it and enjoy the flavors. Here are some tips:
- Allow the venison bacon to cool slightly before slicing, as it will be easier to handle. Use a sharp knife to cut it into thin, uniform slices.
- When you take that first bite, you’ll notice the unique combination of savory venison and the smoky, fatty flavors from the pork. Venison bacon offers a slightly gamey taste, but it’s delicious when prepared well.
- Experiment with different serving options, such as using it as a topping for burgers, adding it to sandwiches, or even incorporating it into breakfast dishes like omelets or breakfast burritos.
By following these cooking and serving techniques, you can create a mouthwatering dish that showcases the flavors of venison bacon. Whether you’re a fan of outdoorsy flavors or simply looking to try a new twist on bacon, this recipe is sure to impress!
Credit: recipes.net
Varieties Of Deer Bacon
When it comes to preparing deer bacon, there are several variations to explore. Each variety offers a unique flavor profile, allowing you to tailor the dish to your personal preferences. From different seasonings and spices to alternative ingredients and cuts of venison, the possibilities are endless.
Seasonings And Spices
Seasonings and spices play a crucial role in flavoring deer bacon, with a range of options to consider. Whether you prefer a traditional smoky aroma or a hint of sweetness, the right blend of seasonings can elevate the taste of your deer bacon. Common choices include:
- Maple syrup
- Brown sugar
- Dry milk powder
- Smoked paprika
Different Cuts Of Venison
When creating deer bacon, the choice of venison cuts can greatly impact the texture and flavor of the final product. Consider experimenting with various cuts, such as:
- Ground venison
- Venison bomb
- Restructured venison bacon
Alternate Ingredients
Aside from the traditional combination of ground venison and pork, there are alternative ingredients that can be incorporated to customize the recipe. These may include:
- Liquid smoke
- Powdered milk
- Backwoods maple bacon seasoning
Deer bacon offers a unique twist on traditional bacon, allowing for creativity and personalization in its preparation. Experimenting with different seasonings, cuts of venison, and alternate ingredients can lead to a delicious and distinct flavor profile, making it a versatile addition to any culinary repertoire.
Where To Buy Deer Bacon
When it comes to cooking with deer meat, one delicious option to consider is deer bacon. It offers a unique and flavorful twist on traditional bacon, making it a popular choice for many culinary enthusiasts. If you’re interested in trying out some deer bacon recipes, the first step is to locate a reliable source to purchase the key ingredient. Here’s a guide on where to buy deer bacon:
Online Retailers
If you prefer the convenience of online shopping, there are several retailers that offer high-quality deer bacon products. Websites such as Amazon, Cabela’s, and PS Seasoning provide a wide selection of deer bacon options for purchase. These platforms often have user reviews and ratings available, allowing you to make an informed decision before making a purchase.
Local Butchers
For those who prefer a more hands-on shopping experience and want to support local businesses, visiting a local butcher can be an excellent option. Many butchers carry specialty meats, including deer bacon, and can often provide valuable insight and recommendations on how to select the best cuts for your recipe.
Specialty Stores
Specialty stores that focus on wild game and unique meats are another great source for acquiring deer bacon. These stores typically offer a diverse range of products, and the staff are knowledgeable about the types of meat they sell, making them a valuable resource for finding the perfect deer bacon for your culinary endeavors.
Credit: ninnescahmade.com
References And Resources
When it comes to preparing a delicious deer bacon recipe, having reliable references and resources is key. Whether you’re looking for tried and tested recipes, informative videos, or suppliers of high-quality venison bacon, this section has got you covered. Below, you’ll find a list of valuable resources to help you create the perfect deer bacon.
Recipe Blogs And Websites
If you’re seeking inspiration and step-by-step instructions for making deer bacon, these recipe blogs and websites are invaluable. Check them out for mouthwatering recipes and bacon-making tips:
- PS Seasoning – Ground venison, maple syrup, brown sugar, dry milk powder, smoked paprika.
- Fox Valley Foodie – Ground venison, ground pork, liquid smoke, brown sugar, powdered milk.
- Wild Game & Fish – Ground venison, ground pork, liquid smoke, brown sugar, powdered milk.
Youtube Videos
Visual learners will appreciate these informative YouTube videos that guide you through the process of making venison bacon. From mixing the meat to frying the bacon, these videos provide detailed demonstrations:
- The Bearded Butchers – Intro, maple sugar cure, grinding the trim, seasoning, slicing, and more.
- PS Seasoning – Mixing the meat, adding water, seasoning, molding, frying, and taste test.
- Dead Broke BBQ – Seasoning, grinding, pressing, cooking, smoking, slicing, and taste experience.
Venison Bacon Suppliers
If you’re interested in purchasing venison bacon instead of making it from scratch, these suppliers offer high-quality options:
| Supplier | Product |
|---|---|
| Cabela’s Venison Bacon Seasoning | Sea… |
| Con Yeager Spice | Wild Game Baco… |
| A.C. Legg ‑ Restructured | Venison Ba… |
| LEM | Backwoods Maple Baco… |
Deer bacon, unlike traditional bacon, is made from ground venison and a fatty cut of pork. The combination of these two meats creates the perfect balance of lean meat and flavorful fat. To ensure your deer bacon is cooked to perfection, keep an eye on its doneness. For more information on making venison bacon, check out our detailed recipe.
Now that you have a list of reliable references and resources, you’re ready to embark on your deer bacon-making journey. Get inspired, gather your ingredients, and enjoy the mouthwatering results!
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Frequently Asked Questions For Deer Bacon Recipe
What Is Deer Bacon Made From?
Deer bacon is made from a combination of ground venison and a fatty cut of pork. The pork is added due to venison’s leanness, providing the mouthwatering fattiness found in traditional bacon.
How Do You Know When Deer Bacon Is Done?
To check when deer bacon is done, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 150-155°F.
How Much Bacon To Mix With Deer?
For a delicious mix of deer and bacon, combine ground venison with a fatty cut of pork. The pork adds the mouthwatering fattiness you love in traditional bacon.
What Is The Best Way To Cook Venison?
The best way to cook venison is by making venison bacon, which is a combination of ground venison and fatty pork. Season the mixture, cure it, and then smoke it for a sweet and smoky flavor.
Conclusion
Making deer bacon is a delicious way to enjoy the flavors of venison with the mouthwatering fattiness of pork. By combining ground venison with pork fat and seasoning it to perfection, you can create a sweet and smoky bacon that is sure to please.
Whether you choose to smoke it or cook it in the oven, venison bacon is a unique and flavorful alternative to traditional bacon. Try out different recipes and techniques to find your favorite way to enjoy this delectable treat!
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