How To Cook Deer Bacon

How to Cook Deer Bacon: A Delicious & Healthy Wild Game Treat

Deer bacon is a fantastic way to enjoy the lean, flavorful meat of venison. It's a healthier alternative to traditional pork bacon, packed with protein and lower in fat. This guide will walk you through the process of making delicious deer bacon at home, from preparation to cooking methods.

Preparing Your Deer Bacon

Before you start cooking, proper preparation is key to achieving that perfect crispy, savory bacon.

1. Choosing the Right Cut:

The best cut for deer bacon is the belly. This fatty portion of the deer renders beautifully, resulting in crispy bacon with a delicious flavor. You can also use other cuts with sufficient fat content, like the back strap or even tenderloin, although these will likely be leaner and require closer monitoring during cooking.

2. Curing the Deer Meat:

Curing is crucial for preserving the meat and adding flavor. A simple cure typically involves:

• Salt: This is the primary preservative. Use about 1/4 cup of kosher salt per pound of deer belly.
• Brown Sugar: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor (1/4 cup per pound).
• Black Pepper: For a touch of spice (1 tablespoon per pound).
• Optional additions: Garlic powder, paprika, cayenne pepper, or other spices can be added to customize your bacon's flavor profile.

Mix the cure ingredients thoroughly, then generously rub it all over the deer belly. Place the cured meat in a resealable bag or container and refrigerate for at least 7 days, flipping it halfway through. Longer curing times (up to 14 days) will result in a more intensely flavored bacon.

3. Rinsing and Patting Dry:

After the curing period, rinse the meat thoroughly under cold water to remove any excess cure. Then, pat it completely dry with paper towels. This step is crucial to ensure even cooking and crispiness.

Cooking Your Deer Bacon

There are several ways to cook your homemade deer bacon:

1. Oven Baking:

• Preheat your oven to 275°F (135°C).
• Place the deer bacon slices on a wire rack placed over a baking sheet. This allows for even airflow and crisping.
• Bake for 30-45 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and cooked through. Cooking time depends on the thickness of your slices. Keep a close eye on it and adjust accordingly.

2. Pan-Frying:

• Heat a heavy skillet over medium heat. You don't need to add any oil.
• Place the deer bacon slices in the skillet, ensuring they're not overcrowded.
• Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.

3. Smoking:

Smoking adds a unique smoky flavor to your deer bacon. This method is ideal for a deeper, more intense flavor profile. Follow your smoker's instructions, aiming for a lower temperature (around 180°F (82°C)) and a longer cooking time, around 4-6 hours.

Serving and Storage

Once your deer bacon is cooked, let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy it as a standalone treat, crumbled on salads, or as part of your favorite breakfast dishes. Store leftover deer bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also freeze it for longer storage.

Making your own deer bacon is a rewarding process that allows you to control the ingredients and create a delicious, customized treat. Experiment with different cure recipes and cooking methods to find your perfect deer bacon recipe! Remember to always handle and prepare wild game properly for food safety.