These Spicy Venison Snack Sticks pack a flavorful kick in every bite! Made with lean venison and a mix of spices, they are the perfect snack for any adventure or just hanging out at home.
Honestly, you can’t go wrong with these tasty treats. They’re great for game day munching or adding to a picnic basket. If you like a little heat, you’re in for a treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Venison: This is the star ingredient, offering a rich flavor. If venison isn’t available, you can substitute with ground beef or turkey. Keep in mind the taste and fat content will differ, so adjust seasoning as needed!
Pork Fat: Optional but helps keep the snack sticks moist. If you prefer a leaner option, you can omit it. Alternatively, use bacon fat for added richness and flavor, but make sure to adjust spices since bacon can be salty.
Red Pepper Flakes & Cayenne Pepper: These add heat! You can adjust their amounts based on your spice preference. For a milder version, try adding sweet paprika or smoked paprika for flavor without much heat.
Honey or Brown Sugar: Both add a touch of sweetness to balance the spices. If you’re aiming for a sugar-free option, consider using stevia or another sugar alternative, but be cautious with quantities as they can differ in sweetness level.
Liquid Smoke: This gives the sticks a smoky flavor. If you prefer a more natural approach, try adding a small amount of smoked paprika instead. It won’t be the same, but it’ll still bring some depth.
How Do I Ensure My Snack Sticks Are Shaped Evenly?
Shaping the snack sticks is important for even cooking. Here’s how I do it:
- Divide the meat mixture into portions based on how thick you want the sticks.
- Roll each portion into a log shape in your hands, aiming for about ½ inch in diameter.
- Wrap the meat around the skewer tightly, leaving no gaps.
- Ensure they’re all similar in size to help them cook evenly, checking that none are too thick or thin.
Don’t stress if they don’t look perfect! Just aim for consistency in size, and they’ll cook nicely.
How to Make Spicy Venison Snack Sticks
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Meat Mixture:
- 2 pounds ground venison
- 1/2 pound pork fat (optional, for moisture)
For Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon onion powder
- 1 tablespoon red pepper flakes (adjust for desired spice)
- 1 tablespoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon liquid smoke (for flavor)
- 2 tablespoons honey or brown sugar (for sweetness)
For Shaping:
- Wooden skewers or meat sticks (for shaping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
Preparing these spicy venison snack sticks takes about 20 minutes for mixing and shaping, plus at least 2 hours for chilling the mixture. Cooking them will take approximately 6-8 hours in the oven or smoker, depending on your method. You’ll have some delicious, flavorful snack sticks ready to enjoy after a bit of patience!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground venison and pork fat (if you’re using it for added moisture). Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything together well, making sure the fats and proteins are evenly distributed.
2. Add Seasonings:
Next, sprinkle in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, black pepper, kosher salt, cayenne pepper, Worcestershire sauce, liquid smoke, and honey. Mix thoroughly until all the seasonings are fully incorporated into the meat mixture.
3. Chill the Mixture:
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and pop it in the fridge for at least 2 hours, or even overnight if you have time. This step lets all those wonderful flavors meld together and makes the meat easier to shape later.
4. Preheat the Oven or Smoker:
When you’re ready to cook, preheat your oven to 180°F (82°C) or set your smoker to the same temperature. If using a smoker, get your wood chips ready—hickory or mesquite are great choices!
5. Shape the Snack Sticks:
Take a handful of the chilled meat mixture and press it around the wooden skewers to shape your snack sticks. Aim for an even thickness so they cook uniformly. Don’t be afraid to get a little messy!
6. Cook the Snack Sticks:
Place your skewered snack sticks on a baking sheet if you’re using the oven, or lay them directly on the smoker racks. Cook for about 6-8 hours, checking them periodically. You’re aiming for an internal temperature of at least 160°F (71°C) and a firm, dried texture.
7. Cool and Store:
Once they’re done cooking, remove the snack sticks from the heat and let them cool completely. You can save them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or vacuum seal them and freeze for longer storage.
8. Enjoy:
These spicy venison snack sticks make for a protein-packed snack or appetizer! They’re perfect for outdoor activities, game nights, or just a quick bite on the go. Enjoy the flavors!
Can I Substitute Ground Venison with Another Meat?
Absolutely! If you can’t find ground venison, you can use ground beef, turkey, or even chicken. Just keep in mind that the fat content might differ, so you may want to adjust the amount of pork fat or skip it altogether depending on the meat you choose.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
To modify the spice level, simply reduce the amount of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper. If you prefer it spicier, feel free to add more! Taste a small amount of the meat mixture before shaping the sticks to find your perfect heat level.
Can I Make These Snack Sticks Without a Smoker?
Definitely! You can bake them in the oven by placing them on a baking sheet. Ensure your oven is set to 180°F (82°C), but keep in mind that the flavor might be slightly different without the smoky essence. For additional flavor, you can use liquid smoke in the mixture, as the recipe suggests!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Snack Sticks?
After they’ve cooled completely, store the snack sticks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. For longer storage, vacuum seal them and freeze. They can last for up to 3 months in the freezer—just thaw in the fridge before eating!
