Freezing Meat
The time has come where hunting season is upon us. Whether you are participating in rifle or archery, the season is here in Pennsylvania. First and foremost, it is important to ensure that all your hunting information and licenses are up to date, all safety precautions are being measured and you ensure you follow the hunting schedule that has been permitted in your area. Once these safety measures are followed, you are set to take part in these activities. Once you have your animal you will need to find ways to properly butcher and store the meat. We encourage doing your own research on the matter to ensure that your situational needs are being met, but we will recommend some resources and tips that can help you this hunting season.Let’s focus on deer meat, also known as venison, since this is common game in Pennsylvania. To prevent the meat from spoiling, ensure that it is stored at an appropriate temperature, which is suggested to be 40° Fahrenheit or below. Ensuring that the animal is properly butchered is also key to the preservation of the meat. The meat must be clean before it is stored as well to ensure that bacteria will not have the room to grow. Once the animal is butchered, it is important to store it away properly to make sure that the maximum length of time can be met for freshness. According to an article by The Ohio State University, most cuts of venison can be stored properly in the freezer anywhere from six to nine months.
Kuhn’s Tip: Use social media as a resource when navigating how to properly freeze your meat. Platforms such as YouTube, Instagram and/or TikTok will have multiple videos to follow along with, just be sure they are credible sources.
Creating a jerky from venison is quite popular in the Western Pennsylvania region, whether that is from venison, turkey or pheasant, depending on the season. This allows another way to utilize all of the meat from your deer. There are multiple different recipes for jerky, and each one depends on taste preference. To focus on one provided from All Recipes, you will need soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion salt and liquid smoke, if you prefer the smoky flavor. Kuhn’s Market is here to provide all the ingredients necessary to create the tastiest snack for you and your loved ones to enjoy. The nice thing about venison jerky is the ability to freeze this snack for ultimate freshness as well. According to The University of Minnesota Extension, if prepared properly, venison jerky can be stored in the freezer for up to six months.
Kuhn’s Tip: Always be sure to conduct your own research about making jerky, canning and/or freezing meat to ensure that you are properly storing the items. If you know someone who has participated in these activities before, ask them which protocols they follow.
This hunting season, Kuhn’s Market is here to supply ingredients to accentuate the delicious flavors of your game. With a wide variety of sauces, spices and flavorings, we are your go-to location to enhance your eating experience. Share with us on social media how you are enjoying your meat this season with the hashtag #KuhnsCookingHour.