Traditional Pemmican Recipe

Ingredients

• 500g (1.1 lb) lean bison meat, dried and ground 500g (1.1 lb) lean bison meat, dried and ground
• 250g (8.8 oz) rendered bison fat 250g (8.8 oz) rendered bison fat
• 100g (3.5 oz) dried berries (such as cranberries or blueberries) 100g (3.5 oz) dried berries (such as cranberries or blueberries)
• 1 tsp salt 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp ground black pepper 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 1 tsp dried thyme 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary 1 tsp dried rosemary

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat: 18g (Saturated Fat: 8g)
• Carbohydrates: 5g (Sugars: 3g)
• Protein: 18g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried and ground bison meat, dried berries, salt, black pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
2. 2.
   In a separate heatproof bowl, melt the rendered bison fat over low heat until fully liquid.
3. 3.
   Pour the melted fat into the bowl with the meat mixture and stir well to combine.
4. 4.
   Line a baking dish or tray with parchment paper and press the mixture firmly into it, ensuring an even thickness.
5. 5.
   Place the dish in the refrigerator and let it cool and solidify for at least 2 hours.
6. 6.
   Once solid, cut the Pemmican into desired shapes, such as bars or patties.
7. 7.
   Store the Pemmican in an airtight container in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Bison meat — Ensure that the meat is lean and properly dried before grinding it. This will result in a finer texture and better incorporation into the Pemmican mixture.

Tips & Tricks

• To add a smoky flavor, you can lightly smoke the dried meat before grinding it.
• Experiment with different dried berries to find your preferred flavor combination.
• For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the mixture.
• Store the Pemmican in individual portions for easy grab-and-go snacks.
• Use Pemmican as a topping for salads or as a filling for homemade energy bars.

Serving advice

Serve Pemmican as a nutritious snack on its own or pair it with fresh vegetables for a balanced meal. It can also be crumbled over salads or used as a flavorful ingredient in stews and soups.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Pemmican bars or patties on a wooden serving board for a rustic presentation. Garnish with fresh herbs or dried berries for an added touch of color.