I like love game.
And I’m not afraid to say it. I grew up with very few relatives, particularly of the male species. When I say few, I mean, I can count them on one hand. What the heck are “cousins”?? I most definitely was not subjected to hunting, except for one bizarre time when I was about 6 . My dad went squirrel hunting with friends, and it was quite the occasion because it had never happened before, and never happened again. I never had the opportunity to eat game until I was an adult. I can’t believe I married a hunter. Seriously, even my parents were freaking out about what I was getting myself into. Imagine their response when their southern daughter, who loved high heels, announced she was marrying and moving to Alaska, all in one fell swoop. Hum. . . . I keep trying to forget the reactions. Oh, I also don’t wear high heels anymore!
I respect those who do not hunt, and all I ask for is respect in return. Our freezer is filled with all kinds of game, none of which contains hormones, is clean and fresh, and tastes better than anything I’ve ever purchased in a grocery store. I am filled with incredible gratitude toward the trout that live in the river below our house. The fact that I can crave trout and in a few hours be eating something people would pay big bucks for, is thrilling.
Whatever you choose to eat, enjoy it with gusto!
Simple Marinade for Deer Loin
¼ cup soy sauce
1 T brown sugar
1 T rice wine vinegar
1 t olive oil
1 pinch Chinese five-spice powder
1 clove garlic, minced
Whisk together all ingredients in a small pan and marinate deer loin (turning meat over occasionally) for at least 6 hours, or (preferably) overnight. Delicious grilled as kabobs alternated with onion and served with sautéed kale.