How To Make Pemmican
Pemmican is a traditional Native American food that is made by drying meat and berries, and then grinding them into a powder. The powder is mixed with melted fat to create a high-energy, nutrient-dense food that can be stored for long periods of time without refrigeration. Pemmican was a staple food for many Native American tribes, as well as early European explorers and settlers.
To make pemmican, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 pounds of lean meat (such as beef or venison)
- 2 cups of dried berries (such as cranberries or blueberries)
- 1 cup of rendered fat (such as tallow or lard)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Here are the steps to make pemmican:
1. Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Fahrenheit.
2. Cut the meat into thin strips and season with salt and pepper.
3. Place the meat strips on a baking sheet and bake in the oven for 6-8 hours, or until completely dry and crispy.
4. Remove the meat from the oven and let it cool completely.
5. Once the meat is cool, grind it into a fine powder using a food processor or blender.
6. In a large bowl, mix together the meat powder and dried berries.
7. Melt the fat in a saucepan over low heat.
8. Pour the melted fat over the meat and berry mixture, stirring until everything is well combined.
9. Pour the mixture into a baking dish lined with parchment paper, smoothing it out into an even layer.
10. Let the pemmican cool and harden at room temperature for several hours.
11. Once the pemmican is completely cool and hardened, cut it into small squares or bars.
Pemmican is a highly nutritious food that is rich in protein, fat, and antioxidants. It is also very calorie-dense, making it an ideal food for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and backpacking. Pemmican can be stored at room temperature for several months, making it a great option for emergency food supplies.
In conclusion, making pemmican is a simple and rewarding process that allows you to create a highly nutritious and long-lasting food source. With just a few ingredients and some basic kitchen equipment, you can make your own pemmican and enjoy the benefits of this traditional Native American food.
