Dutch Oven Bear Roast

Cooking bear meat properly is extremely important for both safety and taste reasons. As a wild game meat, bear meat can carry a variety of pathogens, including trichinosis and toxoplasmosis, that can cause illness if not cooked properly.

Trichinosis is a parasitic infection caused by the larvae of a roundworm that can be found in undercooked bear meat. Symptoms of trichinosis include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, and muscle pain, and can be serious or even fatal in some cases.

Toxoplasmosis, on the other hand, is a parasitic infection caused by a protozoan that can be found in undercooked bear meat, as well as in soil, water, and other animal feces. While most healthy adults will not experience any symptoms from toxoplasmosis, pregnant women and individuals with weakened immune systems are at risk of serious complications.

In addition to safety concerns, cooking bear meat properly is also important for achieving the best possible flavor and texture. Bear meat is lean and can be tough if overcooked or cooked improperly. However, when cooked correctly, bear meat can be tender and delicious, with a unique flavor that is distinct from other wild game meats.

To ensure that bear meat is cooked properly, it should be cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) using a meat thermometer. It is also recommended to trim off any visible fat or gristle, and to marinate the meat beforehand to help tenderize it and enhance its flavor.

Cooking bear meat properly is essential for both safety and taste reasons. By taking the necessary precautions and cooking the meat to the appropriate temperature, you can safely enjoy the unique and delicious flavor of this wild game meat.

Brine Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 gallon water
• 3 Tbsp. balsamic vinegar
• 1 cup kosher salt
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
• 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
• 6 whole cloves
• 2 bay leaves
• 4 cloves garlic, peeled and smashed

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine all the ingredients listed above and heat over medium heat, stirring until the salt and sugar dissolve.
2. Remove from heat and allow the brine to cool to room temperature.
3. Place the wild game meat in a large container or plastic bag and pour the brine over it, making sure the meat is fully submerged.
4. Refrigerate for at least 12 hours, but no longer than 24 hours, depending on the size of the meat.
5. Remove the meat from the brine and pat dry with paper towels before cooking.

Note: Brining can add flavor and help tenderize tough cuts of meat. However, it’s important not to over-brine as it can result in meat that is too salty. Additionally, wild game meat may require additional seasoning or marinating depending on the type of meat and personal preference.

Roast Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3-4 lb beef chuck roast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, sliced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F or if cooking over fire/charcoal, 15 coals on top and nine coals on the bottom.
2. Season the chuck roast with salt and pepper.
3. Heat the olive oil in a cast iron Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
4. Add the chuck roast and sear on all sides until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove the roast from the Dutch oven and set aside.
5. Add the onion and garlic to the Dutch oven and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
6. Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
7. Add the chuck roast back to the Dutch oven, making sure it is fully submerged in the liquid.
8. Cover the Dutch oven with a lid and transfer to the preheated oven.
9. Roast for 2 1/2 – 3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falls apart easily with a fork.
10. Remove the Dutch oven from the oven and let the roast rest for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Note: You can add vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and celery to the Dutch oven for a complete meal. Simply add them to the pot along with the chuck roast in step 7.