In this episode of the EatWild Podcast, we sit down with the Wildgame Gourmet and lifelong hunter Larry White to talk about the deep connection between hunting, cooking, and sharing wild food.
Larry’s journey started in the U.S. Coast Guard, where he trained as a chef before turning his passion toward wild game and the culinary traditions of hunters. From the foothills of North Carolina to the swamps and low country of South Carolina, Larry shares how different ecosystems shape the way we hunt and the strategies needed to succeed in diverse landscapes.
We dig into practical hunting knowledge—from ambush setups and tree-stand heights to navigating jungles, swamps, and clear-cuts. Larry also shares some of the gear that helps him stay mobile and stealthy in the woods, including saddle hunting systems and climbing sticks.
Of course, the conversation turns to the kitchen. Larry walks us through his approach to properly cooking wild game, emphasizing temperature control, muscle-specific preparation, and respect for the animal. We dive into techniques like brining, curing, and smoking venison, along with creative recipes such as cured venison loin, layered meatloaf, and bright green chimichurri sauces that elevate the natural flavour of wild meat.
One of the big takeaways from this conversation is the importance of using the whole animal. Larry shares tips on working with underappreciated cuts like top round, bottom round, neck, and shanks—perfect for slow cooking, braising, and turning tough cuts into incredible meals.
We also talk about the stories that make hunting meaningful—challenging recoveries, memorable hunts, and the joy of gathering friends and community around wild food, whether it’s a backyard cookout or a classic sausage-making party.
This episode is a celebration of the full wild food journey—from the hunt to the table—and the people who make it special.
Connect with Larry White:
InstagramGoogle Search for Blog or WebsiteResources & Links:
Larry White’s Wild Game Gourmet BlogFollow Chef Larry White on InstagramLone Wolf Custom Gear Climbing SticksStikine Packrafts for AdventureiHunter App for Hunting Maps00:00 - Welcome and episode overview—from wild hunting to gourmet cooking
02:17 - Introduction of sponsor: Stikine Packrafts—adventure-ready gear
03:14 - Larry White’s background: from North Carolina roots to Coast Guard chef
04:09 - Hunting locales: from North Carolina foothills to South Carolina estuaries
05:20 - Ecosystem insights: jungles, swamps, and pine stands—finding success
06:34 - Hunting strategies: ambush setups, tree stand heights, and terrain tips
08:08 - Challenges of hunting thick habitats and the gear that helps navigate them
09:03 - Hunting feral pigs—approach and personal insights
10:34 - Wild game as cuisine: wild boar, venison, and culinary myths
11:35 - Comparing wild boar and farm pork—marbling,flavourr, and texture
12:27 - Chef Larry’s culinary journey: from military to food trucks to wild game
14:52 - Essential skills for cooking venison: muscle-specific techniques and temperature control
17:36 - Crafting cured venison loin: process, benefits, anflavouror infusion
18:54 - The science of brining: moisture retention aflavourvor enhancement
20:25 - Slicing and serving cured meats—pflavouravor and texture considerations
21:19 - Smoking venison: techniques, timing, and unique approaches for game meats
22:22 - Dual-step cooking: braising then smoking for tender, flavorful wild game
25:34 - Creative holiday meals: curing, smoking, and innovative preparations for large groups
26:57 - Green sauces and chimichurri: enhancing venflavoursavors with fresh, vibrant toppings
27:52 - Ingredients for killer chimichurri and pairing ideas with wild meats
29:01 - Adventures in hunting: recoveries, field stories, and emotional moments
52:54 - Celebratory beverages after successful hunts—beer, stout, or other favourites
54:34 - Memorable harvest moments: field recoveries and the rewards of persistence
57:43 - Practical tips for managing meat after a tough recovery and field care
59:11 - Handling gut shot deer: ethical considerations and creative solutions
60:36 - The future of Larry’s wild game culinaryendeavourss, podcasts, and projects
61:10 - Connect with Larry: website, Instagram, and where to follow his culinary journey
62:28 - Closing remarks and farewell to listeners
Resources & Links:
Larry White’s Wild Game Gourmet BlogFollow Chef Larry White on InstagramLone Wolf Custom Gear Climbing SticksStikine Packrafts for AdventureiHunter App for Hunting MapsConnect with Larry White:
InstagramGoogle Search for Blog or WebsiteNote:
Feel free to reach out to Larry for cooking questions; he’s available for tips, recipes, and advice on wild game culinary adventures.