If you love hot dogs but want to try something a little different, I’ve got a fantastic recipe for you: Venison Hot Dog Recipe.
Venison brings a rich, gamey flavor that’s leaner than traditional beef hot dogs, making it a tasty and healthier alternative.
I personally enjoy how the deep, earthy notes of venison elevate this casual comfort food into a gourmet experience.
How To Prepare Venison Hot Dog Recipe?
Recipe Information
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Course: Main Course / Snack
Cuisine: American / Game Meat
Yield: About 12-15 hot dogs (depending on size)
Kitchen Utensils Needed
- Meat grinder or food processor
- Large mixing bowl
- Sausage stuffer or piping bag
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Grill or frying pan
- Meat thermometer
Ingredients
- 5 lbs diced venison (or ground venison with an 80/20 lean-to-fat ratio)
- 1¼ lbs pork fat (bacon fat can be used for extra moisture)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- 3 tablespoons ground mustard seed
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 2 teaspoons ground mace
- ½ teaspoon ground celery seeds
- 1 teaspoon curing salt (pink salt)
- 1 tablespoon cold water
- Hot dog buns and preferred toppings (mustard, relish, onions, etc.)
How To Make Venison Hot Dog Recipe
1. Prepare the Meat and Fat:
Cut the venison and pork fat into small chunks if not already ground. Chill the meat and fat in the freezer for 20-30 minutes to make grinding easier.
2. Grind the Meat:
Using a meat grinder or food processor, grind the venison and pork fat together until finely minced but not pureed.
3. Mix the Seasonings:
In a large bowl, combine kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground mustard seed, paprika, ground mace, ground celery seeds, and curing salt. Add the cold water and mix thoroughly.
4. Combine Meat and Seasonings:
Add the ground meat to the seasoning mixture and mix by hand or with a stand mixer until well incorporated and slightly sticky, which helps with binding.
5. Stuff the Sausage:
Using a sausage stuffer or a piping bag, carefully fill sausage casings or form the mixture into hot dog shapes. Tie the ends if using casings.
6. Cook the Hot Dogs:
Preheat a grill or frying pan over medium heat. Cook the hot dogs for 15-20 minutes, turning frequently until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and they have a nice browned exterior.
Nutrition Facts Of Venison Hot Dog Recipe
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 22g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 480mg |
Serving Suggestions
Venison hot dog recipe pair perfectly with classic sides like homemade coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a fresh green salad. For drinks, I like a crisp lager or a tart lemonade to balance the rich meat flavors.
You can also experiment by topping your hot dog with caramelized onions, pickled jalapeños, or a smoky BBQ sauce for something special.
Tips and Variations
➤ Tip: Keep the venison cold during mixing to avoid the fat melting. This ensures juicy, flavorful hot dogs.
◆ Variation: Add diced jalapeños or cheddar cheese into the mixture for a spicy or cheesy twist.
➤ Tip: If you prefer milder seasoning, adjust the spices to your taste.
◆ Variation: Use turkey or chicken fat instead of pork fat if you want a lighter version.
➤ Tip: For a smoky flavor, add a few drops of liquid smoke to the meat mixture.
Health Benefits
Venison Hot Dog Recipe is a fantastic source of lean protein and contains fewer calories and less fat compared to beef or pork. It’s rich in iron, vitamin B12, and zinc, which support energy production and immune health.
Using venison in hot dogs helps reduce saturated fat intake while still enjoying a delicious, protein-packed meal.
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FAQs About Venison Hot Dogs
Can I use only venison without adding pork fat?
Venison is very lean, so adding pork fat (or bacon fat) helps keep the hot dogs juicy and tender. Using only venison can result in dry, crumbly sausages, so it’s recommended to include some fat for moisture and flavor.
What is curing salt (pink salt), and why is it used?
Curing salt contains sodium nitrite, which helps preserve the meat, prevents bacterial growth, and maintains the pink color of the hot dogs. It’s important to use curing salt in the correct amount and not substitute it with regular salt.
Can I freeze the venison hot dogs?
Yes! Venison hot dogs freeze well. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or vacuum-seal, then store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking or reheating.
How do I know when the hot dogs are fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Venison hot dogs should reach at least 160°F (71°C) to be safe to eat.
What type of casing should I use?
Natural casings (hog or sheep intestines) are traditional and give a nice snap when you bite into the hot dog. Synthetic casings are easier to handle and often used commercially, but the choice depends on your preference and availability.
Conclusion
This venison hot dog recipe has quickly become one of my favorites for game-day snacks or weekend barbecues.
Venison Hot Dog Recipe simple to prepare but delivers a unique, flavorful experience that stands out from traditional hot dogs.
I encourage you to give Venison Hot Dog Recipe a try and enjoy the rich taste of venison in a classic comfort food format.
Trust me, once you try Venison Hot Dog Recipe, you’ll want to make these your go-to gourmet hot dog recipe!
Venison Hot Dog Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Cut the venison and pork fat into small chunks if not already ground. Chill the meat and fat in the freezer for 20-30 minutes to make grinding easier.
- Using a meat grinder or food processor, grind the venison and pork fat together until finely minced but not pureed.
- In a large bowl, combine kosher salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, ground mustard seed, paprika, ground mace, ground celery seeds, and curing salt. Add the cold water and mix thoroughly.
- Add the ground meat to the seasoning mixture and mix by hand or with a stand mixer until well incorporated and slightly sticky, which helps with binding.
- Using a sausage stuffer or a piping bag, carefully fill sausage casings or form the mixture into hot dog shapes. Tie the ends if using casings.
- Preheat a grill or frying pan over medium heat. Cook the hot dogs for 15-20 minutes, turning frequently until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C) and they have a nice browned exterior.
Notes
Nutrition Facts Of Venison Hot Dog Recipe
| Nutrition | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 |
| Protein | 22g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 8g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sodium | 480mg |
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