About five years ago, we finally achieved our long-time goal of eliminating the need to buy any traditionally raised meat products from the store. The exception? Lunch meat. The quick and convenient option made it tempting to purchase, but I always felt I was sacrificing healthy choices for convenience. That’s when we decided to experiment with making our own wild game lunch meats. It was a game-changer! Not only does it taste better, but it’s also a cleaner, healthier alternative.
If you’ve been looking to create your own high-quality protein option for sandwiches and snacks, this simple recipe is for you.
How to Make Wild Game Lunch Meat
What You’ll Need:
• A thawed roast cut of wild game (venison, elk, or your choice of lean meat)
• Seasonings: salt, pepper, garlic powder (or customize to your taste)
• Smoker (or oven with smoking chips)
• Aluminum foil
• Meat slicer (or a sharp knife)
Instructions:
1. Season the Roast:
Start with a roast cut of wild game. Season it generously with your preferred blend. Our go-to mix is a simple trio of salt, pepper, and garlic powder, but feel free to get creative with your favorite spices.
2. Smoke to Perfection:
Set your smoker to a low heat and smoke the roast until it reaches an internal temperature of 160°F. For a juicier, pink center, pull it at 155°F. If you don’t have a smoker, you can use an oven with wood chip pans to infuse that smoky flavor.
3. Rest and Chill:
Once cooked, wrap the roast tightly in aluminum foil and let it rest. This helps lock in the juices. After it cools, place the foil-wrapped roast in the fridge overnight.
4. Slice It Up:
The next day, use a slicer to cut the roast into thin slices—perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or snacks. Adjust the thickness to your liking.
Meat Slicer Recommendation:
We’ve been using this slicer for years. It’s a great, affordable option. However, if you shop around, there are plenty of other decent slicers out there. If I had the budget, I’d splurge on a high-end ‘Meat’ slicer for ultimate performance.
Tips for the Best Wild Game Lunch Meat
• Choose the Right Cut: A roast with minimal connective tissue works best for slicing.
• Experiment with Flavors: Add smoked paprika, onion powder, or chili flakes to your seasoning for a personalized twist.
• Storage: Store your homemade lunch meat in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week, or vacuum seal and freeze for longer storage.
Why We Love Homemade Wild Game Lunch Meat
• Healthy Protein Option: Packed with lean protein and no artificial additives.
• Budget-Friendly: Stretch your wild game supply further by turning a single roast into multiple meals.
• Versatile: Use it for quick snacks, loaded sandwiches, charcuterie boards, or even breakfast omelets.
Making your own wild game lunch meat is a rewarding and easy kitchen swap. It’s a step toward clean eating and sustainable living—and once you try it, you’ll never want to go back to store-bought options. Gather your roast, fire up the smoker, and enjoy the satisfaction of creating your own organic, delicious wild game lunch meat!
Have you tried making your own wild game lunch meat? Share your tips, seasoning ideas, and success stories in the comments below!
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