Snacks > Native American > Classic Pemmican

Classic Pemmican with Dried Fruit Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 lb. lean beef or bison
- 1/2 lb. beef suet or tallow
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup dried blueberries
- 1/2 cup dried cherries
- 1/2 cup dried apricots
- 1 tsp. salt

Special equipment needed:
- Food processor or meat grinder
- Dehydrator or oven

Step-by-step instructions:
a. Cut the beef or bison into thin strips and grind them in a food processor or meat grinder.
b. Melt the beef suet or tallow in a pan over low heat.
c. Mix the ground meat, melted suet or tallow, and salt in a bowl until well combined.
d. Spread the mixture onto a dehydrator tray or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
e. Dehydrate the mixture at 145°F for 8-12 hours, or bake in the oven at the lowest temperature for 8-12 hours, until it is dry and crispy.
f. Once the pemmican is dry, break it into small pieces and mix in the dried fruit.
g. Store the pemmican in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.


Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 8-12 hours
5. Temperature:
Dehydrator: 145°F
Oven: Lowest temperature setting
Serving size:
Makes approximately 2 cups of pemmican.

Nutritional information:
Per 1 oz. serving:
- Calories: 140
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 4g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- Any dried fruit can be used in place of the ones listed.
- Coconut oil or butter can be used in place of the beef suet or tallow.

Variations:
- Add nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrition.
- Use different spices or seasonings to customize the flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Make sure the meat is very lean to prevent the pemmican from spoiling.
- Store the pemmican in an airtight container to prevent moisture from getting in.
- Pemmican can last for months or even years if stored properly.

Storage instructions:
Store the pemmican in an airtight container in a cool, dry place.

Reheating instructions:
Pemmican does not need to be reheated.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the pemmican in a rustic bowl or on a wooden board.

Garnishes:
Sprinkle with chopped nuts or seeds for extra texture.

Pairings:
Pemmican is a great snack or meal on its own, but can also be paired with fresh fruits or vegetables.

Suggested side dishes:
Serve with sliced apples, carrots, or celery for a balanced snack.

Troubleshooting advice:
If the pemmican is too greasy, add more dried fruit to absorb the excess fat.

Food safety advice:
Make sure the meat is very lean and the pemmican is stored in an airtight container to prevent spoilage.

Food history:
Pemmican was a staple food of Native American tribes and early explorers in North America. It was a high-energy, portable food that could be stored for long periods of time.

Flavor profiles:
The pemmican has a savory, meaty flavor with a hint of sweetness from the dried fruit.

Serving suggestions:
Pemmican is a great snack or meal on its own, or can be used as a trail food for hiking or camping.

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Taste: Sweet, Savory, Chewy, Nutty, Fruity