Are you a fan of bacon but looking for a healthier alternative? Look no further than venison bacon!
This lean and flavorful meat can be cooked in the oven for a delicious and easy meal. Whether you prefer it crispy or tender, there are a variety of methods to cook venison bacon to your liking.
In this article, we will explore step-by-step instructions on how to cook venison bacon in the oven, as well as tips on equipment and seasoning.
So, grab your apron and let’s get cooking!
How To Cook Venison Bacon In Oven?
There are several ways to cook venison bacon in the oven, depending on your preferences and equipment. Here are a few methods to try:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F. Cut your venison bacon into 1-inch pieces and spread them on a baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is cooked to your liking.
2. For a cast iron skillet method, lay the venison bacon in the skillet and set it in the oven at 300 degrees Fahrenheit. Cook for 6-8 minutes per side and serve.
3. For a crispy bacon texture, preheat the oven to 450 degrees Fahrenheit and arrange the bacon in a single layer on a foil-lined baking sheet or wire rack. Bake for 10-20 minutes, monitoring doneness after 10 minutes.
No matter which method you choose, be sure to season your venison bacon with garlic, grill seasoning, and chili powder for added flavor.
What Is Venison Bacon?
Venison bacon is a type of bacon made from deer meat, specifically the backstrap or tenderloin cuts. It is a leaner alternative to traditional pork bacon, with larger pieces that are easier to handle and flip while cooking. Venison bacon can be prepared in several ways, including smoking, pan-searing, and oven-baking. It is important to note that venison bacon is already aged and cured, so it only needs to be cooked to an internal temperature of 130 degrees Fahrenheit to be considered done. Overcooking or using too high of a heat setting can result in dry and tough bacon. Venison bacon is a flavorful and unique addition to any breakfast or recipe calling for bacon.
Equipment Needed For Cooking Venison Bacon In The Oven
To cook venison bacon in the oven, you will need a few essential tools and equipment. Here are the recommended items:
1. Baking Sheet: A baking sheet is necessary to lay out the venison bacon and cook it in the oven.
2. Aluminum Foil: Lining your baking sheet with aluminum foil will make for easy cleanup.
3. Oven Thermometer: An oven thermometer will ensure that your oven is at the correct temperature for cooking your venison bacon.
4. Chef’s Knife: A chef’s knife is necessary for cutting your venison bacon into 1-inch pieces.
5. Seasonings: Garlic, grill seasoning, and chili powder are recommended for seasoning your venison bacon before cooking.
6. Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer will ensure that your venison bacon is cooked to the proper internal temperature of 160°F.
While not essential, a deli slicer can be helpful for thinly slicing the venison bacon after it has been cooked. Additionally, if you prefer a crispy texture, a wire rack can be used to elevate the bacon off the baking sheet and allow for excess grease to drip off during cooking.
Step-by-Step Instructions For Cooking Venison Bacon In The Oven
If you’ve never cooked venison bacon in the oven before, don’t worry – it’s a straightforward process. Here are step-by-step instructions to help you get started:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. Cut your venison bacon into 1-inch pieces.
3. Spread the bacon pieces on a baking sheet, making sure they are not overlapping.
4. Bake the bacon for 20-25 minutes, or until it is cooked to your liking. Keep an eye on the bacon towards the end of the cooking time to avoid burning.
5. Once the bacon is done, remove it from the oven and transfer it to a paper towel-lined plate to cool and drain excess grease.
6. Serve and enjoy your delicious venison bacon!
Note that cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your bacon and your oven’s accuracy, so be sure to monitor it closely towards the end of cooking time.
For added flavor, you can season your venison bacon with garlic, grill seasoning, and chili powder before baking. You can also experiment with different methods, such as using a cast iron skillet or cooking at a higher temperature for a crispier texture.
Remember to always handle wild game meat with care and follow proper food safety guidelines to avoid foodborne illness. Enjoy your homemade venison bacon as a tasty treat or as a unique addition to your favorite recipes!
Tips For Seasoning Venison Bacon
Seasoning is an important part of making venison bacon. While there are pre-made seasoning kits available, you can also create your own seasoning blend for a more personalized flavor. Here are some tips for seasoning your venison bacon:
1. Use a combination of sweet and savory spices to balance the flavor. Some good options include brown sugar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper.
2. Consider adding a touch of heat to your seasoning blend with cayenne pepper or chili powder.
3. For a smoky flavor, add liquid smoke or smoked salt to the seasoning mix.
4. Don’t forget to add salt to the seasoning blend, as it helps with the curing process.
5. Mix the seasoning thoroughly with the meat to ensure even distribution of flavors.
6. Let the seasoned meat rest in the refrigerator for at least 12 hours before smoking or cooking to allow the flavors to meld together.
By following these tips, you can create a delicious and flavorful venison bacon that will be a hit at any breakfast table.
Serving Suggestions For Venison Bacon
Venison bacon is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to try:
1. BLT Sandwiches – Fry up some venison bacon and add it to your favorite BLT sandwich recipe for a unique twist on a classic sandwich.
2. Venison Bacon Salad – Crumble some venison bacon over a bed of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and avocado for a delicious and filling salad.
3. Venison Bacon Wrapped Asparagus – Wrap a few spears of asparagus with venison bacon and roast in the oven at 400 degrees Fahrenheit for 10-15 minutes for a tasty appetizer or side dish.
4. Venison Bacon Omelet – Add some cooked venison bacon to your favorite omelet recipe for a hearty breakfast.
5. Venison Bacon Mac and Cheese – Mix some crumbled venison bacon into your favorite mac and cheese recipe for an extra savory twist.
No matter how you choose to serve it, venison bacon is sure to add a delicious and unique flavor to any dish.
Health Benefits Of Venison Bacon
Venison bacon is a healthier alternative to traditional pork bacon due to its lower fat content. Venison meat is leaner than pork and contains fewer calories, making it a great option for those looking to watch their calorie intake. Additionally, venison meat contains numerous vitamins and minerals that the body needs, such as iron, B vitamins, and protein. These nutrients are essential for maintaining a healthy body and can help prevent anemia, regulate metabolism, and lower the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Another benefit of venison bacon is that it is a natural meat source. Unless purchased from a deer farm, venison is completely natural and free from any additives or steroids used in farmed animals. This makes it a better choice for people who want to eat meat while avoiding harmful chemicals or additives.
While venison does contain cholesterol, it is still lower in total and saturated fat than other types of meat such as beef or lamb. This makes it a better option for those looking to maintain a heart-healthy diet or limit their saturated fat intake.
It is important to note that venison can be a source of lead exposure if the deer was hunted with lead-based bullets. This can be particularly dangerous for children and babies. However, using lead-free buckshot and bullets can address this issue.
