Pemmican
Pemmican is a hearty, energy-dense snack combining dried fruits, coconut, nuts, and a sweet, buttery coating. Its rich flavors and portable form make it ideal for outdoor adventures, camping, or a nutritious on-the-go treat. Perfect for those seeking a natural, homemade energy boost.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Run the dried peaches, dried apples, dried prunes, coconut, and chopped nuts through a food grinder twice.
- Add the margarine, honey, and peanut butter to the mixture.
- Press the mixture into several rolls about candy bar size.
- Roll the rolls in powdered sugar.
- Wrap and freeze the prepared pemmican.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness. If you prefer a nut-free version, substitute chopped nuts with more coconut or use sunflower seeds. Additionally, try blending in some dried cranberries for a tart contrast. Ensure that the dried fruits you choose are unsweetened to control sugar levels. This pemmican recipe also works well as an energy-boosting snack during hikes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve pemmican as a hearty snack or energy booster during outdoor activities. It pairs beautifully with a cup of herbal tea for a comforting treat. You can also crumble it over yogurt or oatmeal for added texture and flavor. For a complete meal, enjoy it alongside a fresh fruit salad, which complements the sweetness of the dried fruits.
Storage & Reheating
Wrap individual rolls tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or microwave for a few seconds to soften slightly before eating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pemmican contains roughly 1650 calories, with 21g protein, 148g carbohydrates, and 117g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (43% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (38% of the Daily Value), and potassium (24% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 701mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh fruits instead of dried fruits?
Fresh fruits will not work in this recipe, as they contain too much moisture. Pemmican relies on the concentrated sweetness and texture of dried fruits. If you want to experiment with flavors, consider using different types of dried fruits like figs or apricots, but ensure they are fully dried.
How long does pemmican last?
When stored properly in the freezer, pemmican can last for up to 3 months. If kept in a cool, dry place, it can also last several weeks at room temperature, but it's best to consume it sooner for optimal flavor and texture.
Can I add spices to the pemmican mix?
Absolutely! Spices such as cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor profile of your pemmican. Just be cautious with the amounts, as a little goes a long way. Experiment with your favorite spices to create a unique version that suits your taste.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).