After a particularly successful moose hunting season, I found myself with a good amount of wild meat in the freezer. Rather than always making the same classics – roasts or fondues – I wanted to create some variety. So I asked the community of hunters and wild cooking enthusiasts for advice… and that's how I discovered the famous pepperettes!
These small seasoned game sticks, easy to prepare at home, quickly became a favorite. I like to serve them as a snack after a day in the forest or bring them to the hunting camp to share with friends. Crunchy, flavorful, and convenient, they turn moose into bites full of character that celebrate our local harvests.
A small box that allowed me to make delicious stick snacks at home with my game. An easy and economical format that contains curing salt, seasonings, collagen casings, and instructions. A product from the company Hi Mountain Authentic Wyoming Seasonings.
Preparation
Meat preparation
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In a large bowl, mix the pork and ground moose with the seasonings and curing salt.
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Add water gradually to achieve a smooth texture.
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Fill the collagen casings with the mixture, following the kit instructions.
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Smoke or cook the game pepperettes until they are well cooked and flavorful.
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Let cool, package them, and store for your next adventures.
Other game to try
No moose on hand? No worries:
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Try with venison or elk for a more rustic flavor
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Replace with duck or brant goose for a touch of waterfowl
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Avoid bear meat, which must always be cooked thoroughly
Vacuum sealing and its benefits
When I finished my first moose pepperettes, I wondered how to keep them fresh for my next hunting adventures. The answer was obvious: vacuum sealing, a valuable ally to preserve the taste and quality of our game.
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Extended shelf life: up to 3 to 5 times longer than with a traditional method, to reduce food waste
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Preservation of flavors and nutrients: absence of air prevents oxidation and keeps all the richness of the meat
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Reduced risk of contamination: less air means fewer bacteria and molds
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Space saving: vacuum packaging takes up less space in the freezer or refrigerator
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Accelerated marinade: flavors penetrate the meat faster
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Protection against freezer burn: your game pepperettes retain their texture and quality longer
Frequently asked questions about moose pepperettes
❓ How to replace moose meat if I don't have any?
You can choose venison, wild boar, or elk. Ground beef can also be a more accessible alternative.
❓ What equipment is essential for making pepperettes?
A sausage stuffer and collagen casings are essential. A meat thermometer is also handy to check the cooking.
❓ How long do vacuum-sealed pepperettes last?
Up to 6 months in the freezer and about 2 to 3 weeks in the refrigerator.
❓ Can the seasonings be adjusted?
Absolutely! Have fun varying the spice blends to create your own versions of hunting pepperettes.
Conclusion
The moose pepperettes are much more than just a snack: they embody the passion for hunting and the joy of wild cooking. Simple, tasty, and perfect for the outdoors, they will quickly become a must-have to share with friends or family. Thanks to the entire community who inspired me to try this recipe and turn my game into delicious bites.
