Homemade Pepperoni (Elk, Beef, Venison, and/or Turkey)

pork shoulder

🥗Healthier: chicken breast

💰Cheaper: pork loin

Chicken breast reduces fat while maintaining protein content.

beef

🥗Healthier: turkey

💰Cheaper: ground beef

Turkey is leaner and lower in calories.

pork fat

🥗Healthier: olive oil

💰Cheaper: butter

Olive oil is healthier and adds flavor.

cure #1

💰Cheaper: cure #2

Cure #2 is a more accessible option for home curing.

Combine 1 lb ground elk and 1 lb ground turkey in a mixing bowl.

Add 1 tablespoon of fennel seed to the meat mixture.

Add 1 tablespoon of granulated garlic to the meat mixture.

Add 1 tablespoon of granulated onion to the meat mixture.

Add 1 teaspoon of salt to the meat mixture.

Add 1 teaspoon of red pepper to the meat mixture (or 2 teaspoons for extra spice).

Add 1 teaspoon of black pepper to the meat mixture (or 2 teaspoons for extra spice).

Add 1 teaspoon of oregano to the meat mixture.

Add 1 teaspoon of rosemary to the meat mixture.

Add 1 teaspoon of liquid smoke to the meat mixture.

Add 2 tablespoons of olive oil to the meat mixture.

Mix everything together by hand until well blended.

Roll the mixture into a log shape, about 14 inches long and 1-2 inches in diameter.

Preheat the oven to 175°F (or lower if needed).

Place the log on a rack over a stoneware cookie sheet.

Bake in the oven, checking every few minutes and turning the log to maintain a round shape.

Bake for about 5 hours, checking for doneness, especially if using turkey or pork.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Dietary

Allergens