When it comes to survival food, few options are as revered and reliable as pemmican. This ancient blend of fat, protein, and carbohydrates has been a staple of explorers, hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts for centuries. And while traditional pemmican recipes typically rely on beef suet and dried fruits, there’s no reason why this survival superfood can’t be elevated to new heights with the addition of savory flavors and ingredients.
In fact, by experimenting with different meats, spices, and herbs, it’s possible to create a wide range of delicious and nutritious pemmican recipes that cater to even the most discerning palates. From classic beef and berry combinations to bold, spicy venison variations, there’s a pemmican recipe out there for everyone.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 18 savory pemmican recipes that are sure to satisfy your hunger and fuel your adventures. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsperson or just looking for a tasty way to boost your energy levels, these mouth-watering recipes are guaranteed to become new favorites.
Classic Beef Pemmican with Dried Berries
Pemmican is a classic outdoor treat that’s rich in calories and protein, making it an ideal snack for hiking or backpacking. This recipe combines the traditional beef-based pemmican with dried berries for added natural sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rendered beef fat (or substitute with coconut oil)
– 1/2 cup chopped dried beef (jerky)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon corn syrup
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup chopped dried cranberries or cherries
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the beef fat, dried beef, and honey. Heat over low heat, stirring until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
2. Remove from heat and stir in the corn syrup and vanilla extract.
3. Pour the pemmican mixture into an airtight container or zip-top bag.
4. Fold in the chopped dried berries.
5. Store at room temperature for up to 6 months, or refrigerate for up to 12 months.
Cooking Time: None required! Simply mix and store.
Spicy Venison Pemmican with Chili Flakes
Spicy Venison Pemmican with Chili Flakes Recipe
This classic pemmican recipe gets a bold boost from the addition of chili flakes, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventurers.
Ingredients:
• 1 pound venison, finely chopped
• 1 cup powdered milk
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
• 1 cup rolled oats
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chopped venison, powdered milk, honey, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in vegetable oil, salt, black pepper, and chili flakes until the mixture is smooth.
3. Fold in rolled oats until they are evenly distributed throughout the pemmican.
4. Spoon the pemmican into an airtight container or zip-top bag. Store at room temperature for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time:
None! This recipe is a no-cook, ready-to-eat snack perfect for backpackers, campers, and outdoor enthusiasts.
Note: You can adjust the level of heat in your pemmican by adding more or less chili flakes. Enjoy!
Sweet Maple Pemmican with Cranberries
This sweet and tangy pemmican is a perfect blend of rich maple syrup, tender cranberries, and satisfying beef fat. A delicious and energy-boosting snack for any outdoor enthusiast.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rendered beef fat (or other animal fat)
– 1/2 cup chopped dried cranberries
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the beef fat and maple syrup. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture reaches 100°F (38°C).
2. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped cranberries, honey, and vanilla extract.
3. Let cool to room temperature.
4. Spoon the pemmican into an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Yield: About 1 cup of pemmican
Smoky Bison Pemmican with Juniper Berries
This rich and savory pemmican combines the bold flavors of smoky bison, juniper berries, and sweet honey to create a unique and satisfying snack. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts or anyone looking to add some excitement to their trail mix.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup dried bison meat
– 1/4 cup peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
– 1 tablespoon juniper berries, crushed
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the peanut butter and honey over low heat.
2. Stir until smooth and warm.
3. Add the dried bison meat, smoked paprika, and crushed juniper berries to the saucepan.
4. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
6. Spoon the mixture into an airtight container or jar.
7. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: None required, simply mix and store!
Herbed Lamb Pemmican with Rosemary
This classic Scottish snack gets a fragrant boost from fresh rosemary, making it perfect for game days or as a satisfying on-the-go treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound lamb’s liver, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups rolled oats
– 1 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped liver and cook, breaking up with a spoon, until browned, about 7-8 minutes.
3. Stir in the rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. In a large bowl, combine the cooked mixture, oats, and sugar. Mix well.
5. Spoon the pemmican into small balls or logs, depending on desired shape.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None required – this snack is best served chilled!
Nutty Almond Pemmican with Honey
Pemmican is a classic outdoor energy food that combines the best of nuts, seeds, and dried fruits. This recipe adds a hint of honey for an extra layer of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup almonds
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup dried apricots, chopped
– 1/4 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together almonds and oats.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the honey over low heat.
3. Add the chopped apricots to the melted honey and stir until combined.
4. Pour the honey-apricot mixture over the almond-oat mixture and stir until well coated.
5. Melt the chocolate chips in a double boiler or in the microwave in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval.
6. Fold the melted chocolate into the nut mixture until all is well combined.
7. Stir in the coconut oil.
Cooking Time: None needed! Simply mix and store in an airtight container for up to 2 weeks.
Garlicky Elk Pemmican with Thyme
This recipe combines the rich flavors of elk, garlic, and thyme to create a deliciously savory pemmican that’s perfect for backpacking or camping trips. This homemade treat is also free from artificial preservatives and additives.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rendered elk fat
– 1/2 cup dried beef (such as jerky)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the elk fat over low heat.
2. Add the dried beef, garlic, and thyme to the melted fat. Stir until well combined.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the salt.
4. Pour the mixture into an air-tight container and refrigerate or freeze for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: None (ready-to-eat)
Tangy Citrus Pemmican with Orange Zest
This sweet and tangy treat combines the richness of honey and nut butter with the brightness of citrus, perfect for a quick energy boost or as a healthy snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chopped dried apricots
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons orange zest (from about 1 orange)
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed orange juice
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together peanut butter and honey until smooth.
2. Add chopped apricots, shredded coconut, orange zest, and orange juice to the bowl. Mix until well combined.
3. Add a pinch of salt and stir until dissolved.
4. Spoon the mixture into an airtight container or wrap in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None!
Spiced Turkey Pemmican with Cinnamon
Pemmican, a traditional Scottish energy bar, gets a twist with the addition of cinnamon and spiced turkey. This sweet and savory treat is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts or anyone looking for a unique snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried turkey breast
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped nuts (walnuts or almonds)
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine dried turkey breast, honey, brown sugar, and chopped nuts.
2. Mix until well combined.
3. Add cinnamon, ginger, and cloves to the mixture and stir until evenly distributed.
4. Press the mixture into an 8-inch square baking dish lined with parchment paper.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or until firm before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: None (no cooking required)
Rich Duck Pemmican with Sage
Rich Duck Pemmican with Sage: A Hearty Snack for Adventurers
This recipe combines the richness of duck fat and chocolate with the earthy flavor of sage, creating a satisfying snack perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. With its long shelf life and high energy density, this pemmican is an excellent addition to any backpack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup duck fat
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the duck fat over low heat.
2. Add the honey and stir until dissolved.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the chocolate chips until melted and smooth.
4. Stir in the chopped sage and salt.
5. Pour the mixture into an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 24 hours to allow flavors to meld.
6. Once set, cut into desired portions and store in an airtight container for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: None (prep time: 10 minutes)
Salty Salmon Pemmican with Seaweed
This recipe combines the savory flavor of salmon with the nutty taste of seaweed, perfect for a quick and easy snack or post-workout energy boost.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of salmon (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons of honey
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of Dulse flakes (or other type of seaweed)
– 1/4 cup of chopped dates
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the flaked salmon, honey, and soy sauce until well combined.
2. Add in the Dulse flakes and stir until they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
3. Fold in the chopped dates.
4. Spoon the pemmican mixture into an air-tight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 5 minutes
– Total time: 10 minutes
Notes: This recipe makes about 1 cup of pemmican, which can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. You can also customize the recipe by adding other ingredients such as chopped nuts or dried fruit.
Fiery Buffalo Pemmican with Cayenne
This recipe takes the traditional pemmican, a mix of fat and dry ingredients, to new heights by adding the bold flavors of buffalo wing sauce and a kick of cayenne pepper. The result is a spicy and savory snack that’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts or anyone looking to add some heat to their day.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup buffalo wing sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 2 tablespoons cayenne pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the honey and buffalo wing sauce, stirring until smooth.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the cayenne pepper.
4. Let cool slightly, then mix in the chopped nuts (if using).
5. Pour the mixture into an air-tight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow it to set.
Cooking Time: None required – just let it set!
Sweet Apple Pemmican with Cinnamon
Sweet Apple Pemmican with Cinnamon: A Delicious Treat for Any Time of Year
This sweet and chewy treat combines the natural sweetness of apples with the warmth of cinnamon, making it a perfect snack or dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried apple rings
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (or other nuts)
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the dried apple rings, honey, and brown sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the mixture is smooth and the apples are coated.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the apples are rehydrated and the mixture has thickened slightly.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped nuts, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Let cool completely before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Yield: About 1 cup of sweet apple pemmican with cinnamon
Savory Mushroom Pemmican with Garlic
Savory Mushroom Pemmican with Garlic: A Hearty Snack or Trail Food
This rich and flavorful pemmican is perfect for a quick snack or as a trail food on the go. With its savory mushroom and garlic flavors, it’s sure to satisfy your hunger and provide sustained energy.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried mushrooms (such as porcini or shiitake)
– 1/2 cup beef suet
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the dried mushrooms and 1/4 cup of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the mushrooms are rehydrated.
2. Add the beef suet, honey, garlic, and parsley to the saucepan. Stir until well combined.
3. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the mixture has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool. Spoon into airtight containers or zip-top bags for storage.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Zesty Lemon Pemmican with Ginger
This sweet and tangy pemmican is perfect for snacking on the go, with a burst of citrusy flavor from the lemon and warmth from the ginger.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup honey
– 1/2 cup coconut oil
– 1/4 cup chopped dried apricots
– 1/4 cup chopped dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt the coconut oil over low heat.
2. Add the honey and stir until well combined.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Stir in the chopped apricots, chocolate, lemon juice, and ginger.
5. Mix until smooth and creamy.
6. Pour into an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
7. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep only)
Smoked Pork Pemmican with Fennel
This recipe combines the rich flavors of smoked pork, sweet fennel, and crunchy pecans to create a delicious and nutritious snack. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts or anyone looking for a unique treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup smoked pork (such as bacon or ham), diced
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground fennel
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine diced smoked pork, honey, brown sugar, and soy sauce. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is smooth and caramelized (about 10 minutes).
2. Remove from heat and stir in ground fennel.
3. Let cool slightly, then mix in chopped pecans and vegetable oil.
4. Spoon the mixture into a small bowl or jar for serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Bold Coffee Pemmican with Cocoa Nibs
Energize your day with this rich and decadent pemmican, infused with the bold flavors of coffee and cocoa.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried apricots
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup coconut oil
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 teaspoon instant coffee powder
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 70% cocoa)
– Cocoa nibs for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine apricots and honey. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the apricots are soft and the mixture is caramelized.
2. Remove from heat and stir in coconut oil, butter, coffee powder, and vanilla extract until melted and well combined.
3. Stir in dark chocolate chips until smooth.
4. Pour the mixture into a lined or greased 8-inch square baking dish.
5. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to set.
6. Cut into bars and garnish with cocoa nibs.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (cooking time only, does not include refrigeration)
Exotic Coconut Pemmican with Pineapple
A tropical twist on the classic pemmican recipe, this exotic treat combines creamy coconut milk with sweet and tangy pineapple for a snack that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried pineapple, chopped
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1 tablespoon unsweetened coconut milk powder
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chopped pineapple and shredded coconut.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the peanut butter, honey, and coconut milk powder until smooth.
3. Add the peanut butter mixture to the pineapple-coconut mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Spoon the mixture onto a piece of parchment paper or a silicone mat, forming a rough rectangle shape.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: None – this recipe is a no-bake treat!
Summary
Get ready for survival with these 18 savory pemmican recipes! Pemmican is a high-calorie food made from fat, protein, and carbohydrates that’s perfect for emergency rations. This collection of recipes offers a range of flavors to suit every taste, from classic beef with dried berries to spicy venison with chili flakes. Other options include sweet maple with cranberries, smoky bison with juniper berries, herbed lamb with rosemary, and many more. Whether you’re a camper, hunter, or prepper, these pemmican recipes will keep you fueled and satisfied.
