Marvelous meatballs
It’s a simple thing, but anyone working in the tourism field knows that “good eats” is a big part of keeping Yukon guests happy and content.
Part of the experience of Yukon big game hunting is tasting the wild game that has been taken on a hunt, and a great recipe is a must.
Ruth Wilkinson of Ceaser Lake Outfitters in Watson Lake has been cooking for their guests for over 25 years.
A simple favourite for their guests and guides alike is Moose Meatballs.
Moose Meatballs
2 lb moose burger
2 eggs
1 cup dry bread crumbs (or oatmeal)
½ tsp nutmeg
1 tsp salt (or seasoning salt)
¼ tsp pepper
2 Tbsp flour
½ cup chopped onion
¼ cup milk (canned milk works too)
Mix all ingredients well.
Prepare cookie sheet with tinfoil which I spray with Pam (no sticking). I use an ice cream scoop to make the balls.
Bake at 475 for 10 minutes.
I cool the balls and then freeze in Ziploc bags in sizes I need for camp.
For home use, I freeze the meatballs on the sheets and then store them in ice cream buckets. I can take out only what I need for my meal.
My guides have the choice of making spaghetti and meatballs, sweet and sour meatballs with rice, egg noodles with stroganoff meatballs, or meatballs with mushroom gravy served with mashed potatoes.
Ceaser Lake Outfitter’s motto is “Come as a client – Leave as a friend.”
Ruth’s quick humour and great cooking have made the Wilkinson’s, and the Yukon, many friends over the years.
Country cooking tip ……
Remember, wild game burger is very lean. Consider adding extra bacon drippings or oil when preparing burger. This will prevent the meat from drying out or sticking to pan.
This column is provided as a public service courtesy of the Yukon Outfitters’ Association. Contact the association 668-4118.