Wild game is a great way to get your protein. Not only is it healthy, but it's also delicious. If you're a venison lover, you know that the best time to eat it is during the fall and winter when the deer are in their prime. But what if you want to enjoy venison all year round? Is there a way to turn those delicious steaks into shelf-stable food that will last until the next hunting season? This article will show you how to turn venison steaks into shelf-stable food.
What Are Shelf-stable Foods?
Shelf-stable foods are foods that can be stored on a shelf, without the need for refrigeration. This includes items like canned goods, boxed goods, and other packaged items. These types of foods are great for when you need to store food for an extended period, or when you don't have access to a fridge or freezer. Shelf-stable foods are also relatively affordable, making them a great option for budget-conscious consumers.
Benefits Of Eating Wild Game Meat
There are many benefits to eating wild game meat. Some of these benefits include:
- Wild game meat is a great source of protein and other nutrients. It is also very lean meat, which means that it is lower in fat than other types of meat. This makes it a healthier option, especially for people who are trying to lose weight or manage their cholesterol levels.
- Wild game is free of antibiotics, growth hormones, and other chemicals. These are all factors that can contribute to health problems in people who consume domesticated meats regularly.
- Wild game meat is a great way to get your daily dose of omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are beneficial for your health, and they can help protect against heart disease and other chronic illnesses.
- The taste of wild game meat is more intense and flavorful than domestic meat. This is because the animals are allowed to roam freely and eat a natural diet. This results in more flavorful and tender meat that is also more nutritious.
- Wild game is a sustainable and ethical source of meat. Hunting and gathering are more environmentally friendly than factory farming, and the animals are not subjected to cruel conditions. This means that you can feel good about eating wild game meat, knowing that you are not contributing to the problems of factory farming.
The bottom line is that there are many benefits to eating wild game meat. If you are looking for a healthier, more sustainable, and more flavorful option, then you should consider adding it to your diet.
Introducing Venison Steaks
For the meat eater looking for a new, interesting experience, venison steaks may be just the thing. Venison is deer meat, and it is a red meat that can be prepared in many different ways. It is a very lean meat, so it is lower in fat than other types of meat, making it a healthier option. Venison steaks are a great way to get your daily dose of omega-3 fatty acids, and they are also a good source of protein and other nutrients.
When it comes to flavor, venison has a distinctive taste that is slightly sweet and earthy. Some people compare the taste to beef, while others say it is more like lamb but somewhat gamier, and some people prefer it that way. Venison is a versatile meat and can be enjoyed all year round. If you're looking for a new taste sensation, give venison steaks a try.
What Are The Ways To Make Venison Steaks For Longer Periods?
There are a few ways to make venison steaks for longer periods that will last for months. Here are some of the best methods:
- Vacuum sealing: This is one of the most effective ways to keep your venison steaks fresh for a long time. Vacuum sealing will prevent oxygen from reaching the meat and thus prevent it from spoiling. Through vacuum sealing, venison steaks will last for up to 2 years.
- Freeze drying: Another great way to keep your venison steaks fresh is by freeze-drying them. This method will remove all the moisture from the meat, which will prevent it from spoiling. Venison steaks will last up to 1 year when freeze-dried.
- Smoking: Smoking is another great way to preserve venison steaks for a long time. This method will not only prevent the meat from spoiling but will also give it a unique flavor that you will love. Venison steaks will last for up to 2 months when smoked.
- Canning: Canning is another effective way to preserve venison steaks for a long time. This method will seal the meat in a can, which will prevent it from spoiling. Venison steaks will last up to 1 year when canned.
- Salting: Salting is a great way to keep your venison steaks fresh for a long time. This method will draw out the moisture from the meat, which will prevent it from spoiling. Venison steaks will last for up to 2 months when salted.
- Dehydrating: Dehydrating is another great way to keep your venison steaks fresh for a long time. This method will remove all the moisture from the meat, which will prevent it from spoiling. Jerky is a type of dried meat that can be made from venison. It is a popular snack food that is high in protein and low in fat. Venison jerky will last up to 1 year when stored in a cool, dry place.
- Pickling: Pickling is another effective way to preserve venison steaks for a long time. This method will pickle the meat in vinegar, which will prevent it from spoiling. Venison steaks will last up to 1 year when pickled.
These are just a few of the many ways that you can keep your venison steaks fresh for a long time. Choose the method that you think will best suit your needs and enjoy the delicious flavor of venison steak for months to come.
Some Recipes For Using Shelf-stable Venison Steak
If you have a stash of shelf-stable venison steaks, there are plenty of ways to enjoy them. One option is to pan-fry them over medium-high heat until they're browned and cooked through. You can serve them with your favorite sides, like mashed potatoes or rice.
Another option is to grill the venison steaks. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, then place the steaks on the grill. Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they're cooked through. Serve with your favorite sides and sauce.
Finally, you can also braise the venison steaks. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the venison steaks in a baking dish, then pour in some beef broth or vegetable broth. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the steaks are cooked through. Serve with your favorite sides.
Final Thoughts
Hunters take great pride in harvesting their own game, but what to do with all that venison? Thanks to modern food storage and preparation methods, hunters can now enjoy their hard-earned venison all year long. With methods like vacuum packing and freezing the meat shortly after harvest, you can have shelf-stable venison steaks all season long. Simply thaw and cook as desired – it’s that easy. Not only will you save money by preparing your game meat, but you’ll also know exactly where your food came from. So go ahead and stock up on deer meat this hunting season you’ll be glad you did.
For more interesting and creative venison steak ideas, check out Rifles and Recipes for great cookbooks that feature game meat recipes. So get cooking and enjoy your harvest.
