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If you’re craving a nutrient-packed snack that’s both satisfying and bursting with delightful flavors, the Cranberry-Studded Pemmican Blocks Recipe is just what you need. This traditional yet vibrant treat combines rich, savory beef tallow and jerky with the sweet tartness of dried cranberries and a touch of honey, creating a deliciously chewy and energizing block. Perfect for outdoor adventures or a quick protein boost, these blocks offer a perfect balance of texture and taste that’s as timeless as it is nourishing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting started with the Cranberry-Studded Pemmican Blocks Recipe is refreshingly simple because every ingredient plays an important role in flavor, texture, and nutrition. Each component brings its own unique character to this wholesome snack.
- 1 cup dried cranberries: Adds a vibrant tart sweetness and pops of color that contrast perfectly with savory elements.
- 1 cup beef tallow: Provides a rich, melt-in-your-mouth fat base that holds everything together and nourishes.
- 2 cups ground beef jerky: The protein powerhouse that brings a robust, smoky depth to each bite.
- 1/2 cup honey: Imparts natural sweetness and acts as a gentle binder for the ingredients.
- 1/4 cup nuts (optional): Adds a satisfying crunch and extra nutrition, customizable to your preference.
How to Make Cranberry-Studded Pemmican Blocks Recipe
Step 1: Gently Melt the Beef Tallow
Start by melting the beef tallow slowly over low heat in a sturdy pan. Low heat is key here to ensure the fat melts evenly without burning, which preserves that rich, buttery flavor essential for our pemmican blocks.
Step 2: Combine Jerky and Honey
Once the tallow is melted, add the ground beef jerky along with the honey. Stir this mixture carefully until all the ingredients are evenly fused together. The honey not only sweetens but helps bind the savory tallow and jerky into a cohesive mass.
Step 3: Fold in Cranberries and Nuts
Now, stir in the dried cranberries along with the nuts if you’re using them. The cranberries will bring bursts of tart juiciness throughout, while the nuts introduce a lovely crunch. Make sure everything is mixed well for flavor consistency.
Step 4: Shape the Mixture
Pour your pemmican mixture into a lined baking dish, and spread it out evenly to the edges. This uniform layer ensures your blocks set correctly and are easy to cut into perfect portions once chilled.
Step 5: Chill and Cut
Place the dish in the refrigerator and let the mixture firm up thoroughly. Once set, slice into blocks that are just the right size for snacking or packing for your next trip.
How to Serve Cranberry-Studded Pemmican Blocks Recipe
Garnishes
While these pemmican blocks are delicious on their own, adding a sprinkle of crushed nuts or a few fresh berries on top just before serving adds a burst of freshness and a bit of playful texture.
Side Dishes
Pair your Cranberry-Studded Pemmican Blocks Recipe with rustic crackers, sharp cheese, or even a crisp apple slice for a well-rounded snack experience. These pairings complement the sweet and savory notes abundantly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try wrapping individual blocks in parchment paper tied with twine for a portable treat, or layer them between wax paper sheets to prevent sticking. They also make excellent additions to a charcuterie board, adding a touch of traditional flair and unique flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover Cranberry-Studded Pemmican Blocks Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They stay fresh and chewy for up to a week, providing convenient snacks whenever hunger strikes.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these blocks for longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual blocks tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw them at room temperature before enjoying to restore their soft texture.
Reheating
Since pemmican blocks are designed to be eaten cold or at room temperature, reheating is rarely necessary. If you prefer them slightly warm, a quick 10-second zap in the microwave softens them without losing their chewiness.
FAQs
Can I use other dried fruits instead of cranberries?
Absolutely! Dried cherries, blueberries, or even chopped dates can be fantastic alternatives, each bringing a unique flavor twist to your Cranberry-Studded Pemmican Blocks Recipe.
Is beef tallow hard to find for this recipe?
Beef tallow can usually be found at butcher shops or specialty grocery stores. It’s worth seeking out for this recipe due to its pure fat quality and traditional role in pemmican preparation.
How long will these pemmican blocks stay fresh?
When stored properly in the refrigerator, they last about 5 to 7 days. If frozen, you can extend shelf life up to three months without any noticeable loss of flavor or texture.
Can I omit the nuts if I have allergies?
Yes! Nuts are completely optional and can be left out without affecting the core taste and texture of the Cranberry-Studded Pemmican Blocks Recipe.
Is this recipe suitable for a hiking or camping trip?
Definitely! These pemmican blocks are designed as a nutrient-dense, portable snack ideal for outdoor activities where you need energy that lasts.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Cranberry-Studded Pemmican Blocks Recipe — it brings together both tradition and taste in a way that feels personal and comforting. Whether you’re fueling up for an adventure or just need a wholesome snack, these blocks are bound to become a beloved favorite. Give it a try, and you might just find yourself making them again and again!
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Print
Cranberry-Studded Pemmican Blocks Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Category: Snack
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
These Cranberry-Studded Pemmican Blocks combine savory ground beef jerky and rich beef tallow with the sweet tartness of dried cranberries and honey, creating a nutrient-dense, shelf-stable snack perfect for energy on the go.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup beef tallow
- 2 cups ground beef jerky
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1/4 cup nuts (optional)
Instructions
- Melt beef tallow: Slowly melt the beef tallow in a pan over low heat until it turns liquid without browning.
- Combine jerky and honey: Add the ground beef jerky and honey to the melted tallow, stirring continuously until thoroughly mixed and uniform.
- Add cranberries and nuts: Stir in the dried cranberries and nuts if using, making sure they are evenly distributed throughout the mixture.
- Set in baking dish: Pour the mixture into a lined baking dish, spreading it evenly to ensure consistent thickness.
- Chill and cut blocks: Refrigerate the mixture until it firms up completely, then cut into blocks for serving or storage.
Notes
- Use low heat to prevent burning the beef tallow.
- Nuts can be omitted for a nut-free version or substituted with your favorite variety.
- Store the pemmican blocks in the refrigerator or a cool place to maintain firmness.
- This snack is high in energy and ideal for outdoor activities and long trips.
- Adjust honey amount for sweetness preference, but too much may affect shelf stability.
