Venison Pemmican
Venison pemmican combines cured venison, fresh fat, and dried wild plums into a high-energy, portable snack perfect for outdoor adventures or hearty traditional diets.
Ingredients
- 4 lb. cured venison ⓘ
- 1 1/2 lb. fresh raw fat
- 1 cup dried wild plums
Instructions
- Cut the fresh raw fat into small chunks and melt in a skillet.
- Grind the cured venison into a fine jerky or powder and pour the hot melted fat over it.
- Mix until the mixture reaches the consistency of sausage.
- Chop dried wild plums finely and add to the mixture.
- Pack the pemmican into plastic or other airtight containers after shaping into rolls or balls.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, consider grinding the venison twice. If fresh raw fat is not available, you can substitute with beef tallow or lard. Ensure the dried wild plums are not overly moist to avoid affecting the pemmican's consistency. This recipe can be adjusted for sweetness by varying the amount of dried fruit you add.
Serving Suggestions
Pemmican can be enjoyed as a high-energy snack on its own, or paired with nut butter for added flavor. It also pairs beautifully with wild game dishes, such as those found in Irish Stew(Celtic). For a complete meal, serve with fresh vegetables or as part of a charcuterie board.
Storage & Reheating
Store the pemmican in airtight containers at room temperature for short-term use. For longer storage, refrigerate or freeze; it can last several months when frozen. When ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator and enjoy cold or gently heat in a skillet over low heat for a warm treat.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Venison Pemmican contains roughly 413 calories, with 2g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (97% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (87% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 27g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 other types of meat for this recipe?
Yes, while venison is traditional, you can use any lean meat such as beef or turkey. Just ensure it's properly cured or dried to achieve the right texture and flavor in your pemmican.
How do I know if my pemmican is properly mixed?
The mixture should be cohesive and hold together without being overly greasy. It should resemble the consistency of sausage, allowing you to easily shape it into rolls or balls without crumbling.
What are the nutritional benefits of pemmican?
Pemmican is nutrient-dense, providing a good balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates, making it an excellent energy source for outdoor activities. The combination of venison and dried fruit adds vitamins and minerals, ideal for sustaining energy levels.
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).