Venison Bacon

Maple Ridge Venison Bacon

Maple Style Venison Bacon

Maple Ridge Venison Bacon
Internal temp
152°F (67°C)
Smoker temp
160-180°F (71-82°C)
Casing
No casing — pressed into a 9x13 aluminum pan lined with Saran Wrap
Bloom
24-48 hours (cure rest)

What goes in it

Amounts are calculated for your batch weight in the app — including the cure, which is held at a fixed, food-safe rate.

The meat

Lean Wild Game · Pork Butt · Pork Shoulder

How it's made

  1. Grind chilled venison and pork fat (32°F) through a 1/4" plate.
  2. Add all dry seasonings and ice water. Mix until tacky with good protein extraction.
  3. Fold in maple syrup and mix until evenly distributed.
  4. Press firmly into a 9x13 aluminum pan lined with Saran Wrap. Pack tightly. The Saran Wrap makes it easy to pull the slab out when it's time for the smoker.
  5. Place in the fridge for 24-48 hours.
  6. Smoke with maple wood at 160-180°F until internal temperature reaches 152°F. Important: Do not let your smoker exceed 180°F. Even if your smoker is set at or below 180°F, the actual temperature can spike higher — monitor closely.
  7. Refrigerate overnight, then slice to your desired thickness.

Wood

Maple · Cherry · Apple

Safety

  • Keep meat below 40°F during grinding and mixing
  • Cure #1 is required — do not skip
  • Cook to 152°F internal temperature