Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6-8
Rich in protein, long-lasting, and deeply tied to Indigenous food traditions, Bison Pemmican is the ultimate survival food. This high-energy snack was crafted by Native American tribes by combining dried bison meat, rendered fat, and wild berries, creating a nutrient-dense, portable food ideal for long journeys and harsh winters. Whether enjoyed on the go or as a base for hearty stews, Pemmican remains a powerful, ancestral superfood!
Ingredients For Bison Pemmican
☑ 2 cups dried bison meat (or lean beef), finely ground 🥩
☑ ½ cup dried wild berries (chokecherries, blueberries, or cranberries) 🍒
☑ ½ cup rendered bison fat (or beef tallow) 🥄
☑ 1 teaspoon 🥄 sea salt 🧂
☑ ½ teaspoon 🥄 ground black pepper ✨
🔥 Optional Additions:
☑ ½ teaspoon 🥄 honey 🍯 (for a hint of sweetness)
☑ ½ teaspoon 🥄 dried sage or thyme 🌿
👩🍳 Cooking Steps For Bison Pemmican
🔥 Step 1: Dry the Meat
1️⃣ Thinly slice bison meat and dry it completely using a dehydrator or low-temperature oven (150°F / 65°C) for 6-8 hours until brittle.
2️⃣ Once dry, grind into a fine powder using a mortar and pestle or food processor.
🔥 Step 2: Prepare the Berries
1️⃣ If using fresh berries, dry them until shriveled.
2️⃣ Crush dried berries into small pieces but not a fine powder.
🔥 Step 3: Melt the Fat
1️⃣ In a saucepan, gently melt the rendered bison fat over low heat.
🔥 Step 4: Mix & Shape
1️⃣ In a large bowl, combine ground meat, dried berries, and salt.
2️⃣ Slowly pour in the melted fat, mixing until it forms a thick paste.
3️⃣ Shape into small bars, balls, or press into a thin layer to cut into strips.
🔥 Step 5: Store & Enjoy!
1️⃣ Let cool and store in an airtight container.
2️⃣ Pemmican lasts for months at room temperature and even longer when refrigerated!
🥩 Dense in nutrition and history, Bison Pemmican is a true Indigenous superfood that fueled generations! Whether eaten on its own or added to stews, this traditional recipe is a testament to the wisdom of Native cuisine.
🌍 Craving More Extreme Culinary Adventures? If you’re fascinated by rare and ancient food traditions, explore our guide to Paiche a la Brasa – A Taste of Amazonian Heritage You Need to Try! with Indigenous Roots for the Adventurous Food Lover.
Discover rare culinary experiences at Good Food and More—where every recipe is a journey through heritage, craftsmanship, and unforgettable flavors.
