Ground Venison Bacon Recipe That Will Wow Your Taste Buds

If you’re a fan of game meat and crave the smoky, savory flavor of bacon, then this Ground Venison Bacon Recipe is just what you need. Venison, known for its rich, lean qualities, takes on a whole new dimension when crafted into bacon.

This recipe combines traditional bacon curing techniques with the unique taste of venison, resulting in a delicacy that’s perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, or adding a gourmet touch to your favorite dishes.

Making your own venison bacon at home might sound intimidating, but with simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a batch that rivals any store-bought variety. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy wild game in a new, exciting form.

Whether you’re an experienced hunter looking to diversify your venison recipes or simply a food enthusiast eager to try something deliciously different, this ground venison bacon recipe promises wonderful results.

Ready to impress your family and friends with smoky, savory, and slightly sweet bacon made from lean venison? Let’s dive right in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This ground venison bacon recipe offers several irresistible benefits:

• Lean and Healthy: Venison is naturally low in fat and cholesterol, making this bacon a healthier alternative to traditional pork bacon.
• Rich Flavor: The smoky curing process enhances venison’s natural gamey flavor, creating a deep, savory taste that bacon lovers will adore.
• Homemade Goodness: Crafting your own bacon means you control the ingredients, avoiding preservatives and additives commonly found in store-bought bacon.
• Versatile Use: Ground venison bacon can be used in diverse dishes, from classic breakfast plates to gourmet sandwiches and salads.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground venison (preferably freshly ground from lean cuts)
• 1/2 cup kosher salt
• 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed)
• 1 tablespoon black pepper (freshly ground)
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon curing salt (Prague Powder #1) – optional but recommended for authentic curing and safety
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
• Wood chips for smoking (applewood or hickory work best)

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Plastic wrap or vacuum seal bags
• Smoker or grill with smoking capabilities
• Meat thermometer
• Baking sheet and wire rack
• Sharp knife or bacon slicer
• Refrigerator (for curing)
• Optional: Food processor (if you want a finer grind)

Instructions

1. Prepare the cure mix: In a large bowl, combine kosher salt, brown sugar, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and curing salt if using. Mix thoroughly to create an even curing blend.
2. Mix the ground venison: Add the ground venison to the bowl with the cure mix. Sprinkle the maple syrup over the meat if you prefer a sweeter bacon. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined.
3. Pack and cure: Transfer the seasoned venison into a vacuum seal bag or tightly wrap it in plastic wrap. Place the meat in the refrigerator and allow it to cure for at least 5 days, turning the package daily to redistribute the cure evenly.
4. Rinse and dry: After curing, remove the venison from the bag and rinse off excess cure under cold water. Pat the meat dry with paper towels. Place it on a wire rack and allow it to air dry in the refrigerator for 12-24 hours. This forms a pellicle, which is essential for smoking.
5. Prepare your smoker: Preheat your smoker to 175°F (80°C). Add your choice of wood chips for a smoky flavor—applewood or hickory are ideal.
6. Smoke the venison: Place the venison on the smoker rack. Smoke it low and slow for about 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 150°F (65°C). This ensures the bacon is cooked and infused with smoky goodness.
7. Cool and slice: Remove the smoked venison bacon from the smoker and let it cool to room temperature. Wrap it tightly and refrigerate for several hours or overnight to firm up. Once chilled, slice the bacon thinly using a sharp knife or a slicer.
8. Cook and enjoy: Pan-fry sliced ground venison bacon over medium heat until crispy. Serve immediately or use in your favorite recipes.

Tips & Variations

“Patience is key when curing and smoking homemade venison bacon. Rushing the process can compromise flavor and texture.”

• Use lean cuts: Ground venison should be relatively lean but not completely fat-free for best texture and flavor.
• Adjust sweetness: Try experimenting with different sweeteners like honey or molasses instead of maple syrup for unique flavor profiles.
• Spice it up: Add cayenne pepper or chili flakes to your cure mix for a spicy kick.
• Alternative smoking: If you don’t have a smoker, use a grill with indirect heat and soaked wood chips to mimic smoking.
• Non-curing version: Skip the curing salt for a fresh venison bacon, but remember it won’t have the same preservation or pink color.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Ground venison bacon is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. Here are some delicious serving ideas:

• Classic breakfast: Serve alongside scrambled eggs, toast, and fresh fruit for a hearty morning meal.
• Sandwiches and burgers: Add crispy venison bacon to your favorite sandwiches or burgers for an extra layer of flavor.
• Salads: Crumble cooked venison bacon over a green or spinach salad for a smoky crunch.
• Pasta dishes: Incorporate into creamy pasta recipes, replacing regular bacon or pancetta.
• Pizza topping: Scatter pieces on homemade or store-bought pizza for a gourmet upgrade.

Conclusion

Making your own ground venison bacon is a rewarding culinary adventure that transforms lean game meat into a smoky, flavorful delight. This recipe combines the best of traditional bacon curing with the unique taste of venison, resulting in a product that’s not only delicious but also healthier than typical pork bacon.

With a bit of patience and the right equipment, you can create a batch of venison bacon that’s perfect for breakfast, sandwiches, or creative dishes throughout the day.

Don’t be afraid to experiment with seasonings and wood chips to personalize the flavor to your liking. And if you’re interested in exploring more tasty and easy recipes, check out our Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious, try some Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious, or prepare nourishing meals with Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping.

Enjoy your homemade venison bacon creation and happy cooking!

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