Wild Game Seasonings

Wild game is leaner, darker and stronger-tasting than anything you buy at a counter, and it does not want the same treatment. These are the blends built for it — coarse enough to stand up to backstrap, balanced enough that they season the meat instead of burying it.

Every blend here is one we cook on venison, elk, moose, bear and wild hog ourselves. Most work just as well on beef and pork, so nothing in this cabinet goes to waste in the off-season.

Which blend for venison?

For steaks and backstrap, start with Venison & Elk Seasoning or Moose Garlic Pepper. For ground venison, Deer Chili Seasoning. For anything headed to the smoker, one of the boar rubs.

Do I need to marinate wild game?

Only the tougher cuts and the older animals. A dry marinade overnight will tenderize a shoulder or a shank; a backstrap needs nothing but a rub and a hot pan.