Wild Fish and Game Podcast

Wild Fish and Game Podcast

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Wild Fish and Game Podcast episodes

  • Episode 277: Hunting America's Hidden Truffles with Alana McGee of Truffle Dog Company

    Summary:

    Join us as Alana McGee from Truffle Dog Company shares her journey into truffle hunting, the different types of truffles in North America, and best practices for foraging and culinary use. Discover how dogs and pigs are used in truffle detection, the importance of stewardship, and tips for beginners.

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    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Art of Venison Sausage Making⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


    Links:

    Truffle Dog Company Contact Form

    Facebook

    Instagram


    Chapters:

    00:00 Introduction to Truffle Hunting

    03:07 Alana's Journey into Truffle Hunting

    05:58 Types of Truffles in North America

    09:07 Comparing European and North American Truffles

    11:52 Seasonality and Growth of Truffles

    15:02 The Role of Dogs in Truffle Hunting

    17:58 Community and Education in Truffle Hunting

    21:02 Stewardship and Ethical Foraging Practices

    24:05 Regulations and Land Use for Truffle Hunting

    31:05 Navigating Truffle Harvesting Regulations

    32:04 Urban Truffles: Finding Gems in Backyards

    34:35 Understanding Truffle Habitats and Species

    36:29 Culinary Uses: How to Enjoy Fresh Truffles

    41:51 Innovative Ideas: Truffle-Infused Bacon and Beyond

    45:40 Dispelling Myths: The Truth About Truffles

    48:15 Connecting with the Truffle Community


    Takeaways:

    Types of North American truffles and their habitats

    Use of dogs and pigs in truffle detection

    Seasonality and environmental factors affecting truffle growth

    Stewardship and sustainable foraging practices

    Culinary uses and infusing flavors into dishes

    Community building and resources for aspiring truffle hunters


    Keywords:

    Truffle hunting, North American truffles, dog training, foraging, culinary truffles, stewardship, truffle species, truffle cultivation, wild mushrooms, edible fungi

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    55 min
  • Episode 276: The Wild Pantry, Part V, Preserving Wild Food with Fat

    Summary:

    In this episode, Justin Townsend and Adam Berkelmans explore the history, techniques, and safety considerations of fat-based preservation methods like confit, rillette, and oil preservation. They discuss how these ancient techniques transform food and remain relevant today.

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    Links:

    A Hunter’s Guide to Confit

    Venison Shank Confit

    Chapters:

    00:00 Introduction and Overview of Fat Preservation Techniques

    02:50 The History and Evolution of Confit

    06:02 The Science Behind Confit and Preservation

    08:56 Rendering Fat: The Key to Successful Confit

    11:51 Practical Applications and Modern Considerations

    22:02 Unlocking the Value of Animal Fats

    25:30 Exploring Confit and Rillette Techniques

    30:04 Innovative Oil Preservation Methods

    34:10 Safety in Fat and Oil Preservation

    41:10 The Luxurious Transformation of Food Preservation


    Takeaways:

    History of confit and fat preservation

    Techniques for rendering and preserving fat

    Safety considerations and botulism risks

    Modern applications of traditional methods

    Transformative effects of fat on food texture and flavor


    Keywords:

    Food preservation, confit, rillette, fat preservation, wild food, traditional techniques, safety, botulism, rendering fat, culinary history

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    41 min
  • Episode 275: Wild Game Without Borders

    Summary:

    Justin Townsend and Adam Berkelmans explore how global cuisines can inspire new approaches to cooking wild game, emphasizing techniques suited for tougher, leaner, and more variable ingredients. They discuss the historical roots of European traditions, the influence of other cuisines, and practical tips for expanding your culinary repertoire.

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    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Art of Venison Sausage Making⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


    Chapters:

    00:00 Exploring Wild Game Cooking Traditions

    10:00 The Influence of European Cooking on Wild Game

    19:50 Global Cuisines and Their Techniques for Wild Game

    21:40 Culinary Adaptations Across Cultures

    27:15 The Importance of Enjoying Food

    33:36 Techniques for Cooking Wild Game

    39:04 Exploring Global Culinary Systems

    44:53 Redefining Wild Food and Its Potential


    Takeaways:

    European culinary traditions and their origins

    Techniques for tough and lean meats from global cuisines

    The influence of scarcity and environment on cuisine development

    Using spices, acids, and fermentation to balance wild ingredients

    Practical methods for applying international techniques at home


    Keywords:

    Wild game, global cuisines, cooking techniques, culinary systems, wild food, traditional recipes, food culture, foraging, wild meat, culinary diversity

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    45 min
  • Episode 274: The Wild Pantry, Part IV, Smoking

    Summary:

    This conversation delves into the ancient art of smoking food, exploring its historical significance, cultural practices, and the science behind how smoking enhances flavor and preserves food. The hosts discuss various smoking techniques, safety considerations, and the versatility of smoking in modern culinary practices, including the use of liquid smoke as an alternative. The discussion emphasizes the transformative power of smoke in enhancing the richness and complexity of flavors in wild foods. In this conversation, Adam Berkelmans and Justin Townsend delve into the art of smoking food, discussing various techniques, common mistakes, and creative recipes. They explore the use of liquid smoke, the importance of seasoning, and the communal aspect of smoking as a cooking method. The discussion emphasizes the balance between traditional methods and modern conveniences, encouraging listeners to experiment with smoking techniques and flavors.

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    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Art of Venison Sausage Making


    Links:

    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Smoked Za’atar Puffball Mushroom

    Citrus Smoked Venison Shanks

    Smoked Goose Hearts with Lemon Dressing

    Blackened Smoked Salmon Burgers with Duck Fat Fries

    Smoked Venison Chili


    Chapters:

    00:00 The Art of Smoking: An Ancient Preservation Method

    03:12 Cultural Significance and Global Practices of Smoking

    05:46 The Science Behind Smoking: How It Works

    09:13 Getting Started: Tools and Techniques for Smoking

    12:00 Safety Considerations in Smoking Food

    14:50 Exploring Wild Foods: Smoking Fish and Game

    17:58 The Versatility of Smoking: Beyond Preservation

    20:52 Liquid Smoke: A Modern Alternative

    24:00 Conclusion: Embracing the Flavor of Smoke

    29:31 Exploring Liquid Smoke and DIY Techniques

    31:00 Crossover Methods in Smoking and Preservation

    38:51 Common Mistakes in Smoking Techniques

    40:00 Starting with Hot Smoking: Easy Entry Points

    49:04 Creative Smoking Recipes and Techniques

    51:01 The Communal Aspect of Smoking and Traditional Techniques


    Takeaways:

    Smoking is one of the oldest methods of food preservation.

    Cultural practices of smoking vary globally, from fish to meats.

    The science of smoking involves compounds that enhance flavor and preservation.

    Hot smoking cooks food while cold smoking requires careful temperature control.

    Different smoking setups range from simple DIY to advanced electric smokers.

    Safety is crucial, especially with cold smoking to prevent bacterial growth.

    Wild foods like fish and game benefit greatly from smoking techniques.

    Smoking transforms food, enhancing its flavor and richness.

    Liquid smoke offers a convenient alternative but should be used sparingly.

    Understanding the history and methods of smoking can enhance culinary experiences. Liquid smoke can be recreated with simple tools.

    Combining smoking with other preservation methods yields better results.

    Too much smoke can lead to bitter flavors; a thin stream is ideal.

    Temperature control is crucial for successful smoking.

    Wild game requires different smoking techniques than domestic meats.

    Seasoning is essential; smoke adds flavor but is not a substitute.

    Overcrowding the smoker can lead to uneven cooking.

    Quality of wood affects the flavor of smoked food.

    Hot smoking is an accessible entry point for beginners.

    Smoking can be a communal and enjoyable experience.


    Keywords:

    Smoking, food preservation, wild food, cultural practices, safety, techniques, flavor enhancement, liquid smoke, ancient methods, culinary arts liquid smoke, smoking techniques, preservation methods, common mistakes, hot smoking, creative recipes, communal cooking, traditional flavors

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    49 min
  • Episode 273: Wild Salmon, Wild Forests

    Summary:

    Join us as Tyson Fick from Yakobi Fisheries shares insights into Alaskan salmon fishing, conservation efforts, and the ecological importance of wild salmon. Discover the nuances of sustainable fishing, the impact of habitat preservation, and how consumer choices can support healthy fisheries.

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    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Art of Venison Sausage Making⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


    Links:

    Salmon In the Trees Life in Alaska's Tongass Rain Forest by Amy Gulick

    Salmon State

    Yakobi Fisheries


    Chapters:

    00:00 Introduction to Salmon Fishing and Conservation

    15:55 The Importance of the Tongass National Forest

    24:01 Management Plans and Future of the Tongass

    26:01 The Future of Fisheries and Conservation

    34:08 Culinary Delights: Cooking with Salmon

    40:02 The Importance of Sustainable Seafood Choices

    44:22 Advocacy and Support for Fisheries


    Takeaways:

    Alaskan salmon fishing techniques

    Conservation of the Tongass National Forest

    Impact of habitat loss on salmon populations

    Differences between wild and farmed salmon

    Ecological role of salmon in forest health


    Keywords:

    Salmon fishing, Alaska, conservation, wild seafood, sustainable fishing, Tongass National Forest, fishery management, seafood preservation, ecosystem health

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    44 min
  • Episode 272: On the Ethics of Killing: The Moral Math of Eating

    Summary:

    Explore the ethical considerations of eating and killing in the context of hunting, food production, and environmental impact. Blake Binford shares insights from his book 'On the Ethics of Killing: The Moral Math of Eating', discussing how distance from nature influences our perceptions and responsibilities.

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    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Art of Venison Sausage Making

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    Links:

    On the Ethics of Killing: The Moral Math of Eating


    Chapters:

    00:00 Introduction to Wild Food and Perspectives

    02:50 Personal Journey and the Role of Food

    06:13 The Ethics of Eating and Protein Sources

    08:58 Wild Game and Its Nutritional Value

    11:56 Revisiting Perspectives on Food Production

    15:02 The Cost of Living: Death and Consumption

    17:47 Understanding Clean vs. Violent Food

    20:59 The Distance of Modern Life from Nature

    23:59 Moral Relief and Responsibility in Food Choices

    27:06 Access to Food and Public Lands

    30:12 Ethical Considerations of Distance in Food Production

    32:17 Understanding the Cost of Consumption

    39:28 Ethics of Hunting and Awareness

    50:25 Moral Math in Food Choices

    56:46 Honest Eating and Personal Responsibility


    Takeaways:

    The concept that living requires death and its implications

    The impact of modern life and distance from nature on food ethics

    The idea of moral responsibility following the act of killing

    The relationship between hunting, food production, and environmental conservation

    The concept of kill count per calorie as a moral math model


    Keywords:

    Ethics of killing, hunting, food sustainability, environmental impact, moral responsibility, wild game, food waste, conservation, food ethics, natural world

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    59 min
  • Episode 271: The Wild Pantry, Part III - Dehydrating and Drying

    Summary:

    Explore the ancient and modern techniques of drying and dehydrating food, its scientific principles, and practical applications in wild food lifestyle. Learn how to preserve, enhance, and utilize wild ingredients through drying methods.

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    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Art of Venison Sausage Making


    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Recipes:

    ⁠Lone Star Jerky⁠

    ⁠Maple Whisky Trout Jerky⁠

    ⁠How to Make Heart Jerky⁠

    ⁠Kimi’s Kitchen Cookbook⁠


    Chapters:

    00:00 The Art of Drying: A Historical Perspective

    03:10 Scientific Principles of Drying Food

    06:09 Modern Techniques for Food Drying

    08:57 Safety and Nutritional Aspects of Dried Foods

    12:14 Practical Applications: Drying Wild Game and Fish

    24:29 The Art of Drying Mushrooms

    27:45 Exploring Dehydrated Ingredients

    30:04 Jerky: A Versatile Snack

    32:50 Creative Jerky Recipes

    36:05 Innovative Drying Techniques

    39:02 Mushroom Drying Essentials

    42:29 Cured and Smoked Fish Recipes


    Takeaways:

    History and cultural significance of drying food

    Scientific principles behind drying and water activity

    Techniques and equipment for drying food at home

    Food safety considerations in drying and dehydrating

    Enhancing flavor and nutrition through drying


    Keywords:

    Food preservation, drying, dehydrating, wild food, food science, jerky, mushrooms, fish, food safety, culinary techniques


    Added clips:

    How Does Freeze Drying Work?
    Safely Dehydrating and Freeze Drying Foods

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    48 min
  • Episode 270: The Wild Harvest Report - April 2026

    Summary:

    A comprehensive overview of April's seasonal activities across North America, focusing on hunting, fishing, foraging, and cooking wild foods. The report highlights regional differences, key species in season, and practical tips for outdoor enthusiasts and cooks.

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    Chapters:

    00:00 Introduction to Wild Harvesting and Seasonal Changes

    01:07 April's Momentum: Spring Awakens

    02:35 Southeast Fishing and Foraging Insights

    04:01 Deep South: Refining Patterns in Nature

    05:25 Rocky Mountain Transitions: Spring's Arrival

    06:51 Midwest: Ice Out and New Opportunities

    07:22 Northeast: Transitioning into Spring

    08:25 Canada's April: A Month of Transition

    09:08 Foraging Summary and Kitchen Reflections


    Takeaways:

    Seasonal wildlife activity in April

    Regional differences in hunting and fishing

    Foraging for wild greens and mushrooms

    Cooking with fresh wild ingredients


    Keywords:

    Wild food, hunting, fishing, foraging, spring season, North America, wildlife, recipes, conservation, outdoor activities

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    13 min
  • Episode 269: Wild Game Is More Than Protein

    Summary:

    This episode explores the full value of wild animals beyond just protein, emphasizing traditional and cultural uses of all animal parts, including fat, marrow, organs, and connective tissues. It highlights how modern diets and hunting practices can benefit from a holistic approach to animal utilization.

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    ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Art of Venison Sausage Making⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠


    Chapters:

    00:00 The Value of the Whole Animal

    02:05 Cultural Shifts in Protein Consumption

    05:25 Historical Perspectives on Animal Parts

    09:26 The Importance of Fat and Connective Tissue

    18:28 Nutritional Insights Beyond Muscle Meat

    25:30 The Broader Nutritional Spectrum

    32:03 Practical Applications in Cooking


    Takeaways:

    Full animal utilization in hunting and cooking

    Historical and cultural perspectives on animal parts

    Nutritional benefits of offal, marrow, and connective tissue


    Keywords:

    Wild game, full animal utilization, traditional cuisine, connective tissue, collagen, offal, nutrition, hunting, cooking techniques


    References:

    International Food Information Council — 2023 Food & Health Survey

    USDA — Dietary Guidelines for Americans

    Vilhjalmur Stefansson — The Fat of the Land

    Cordain et al., American Journal of Clinical Nutrition — Evolutionary diets research

    • Khatri M, et al. 2021. The effects of collagen peptide supplementation on body composition, collagen synthesis, and recovery from joint injury and exercise: a systematic review.

    • Campos LD, et al. 2023. Collagen supplementation in skin and orthopedic diseases: A review of the literature.

    • Latoch A, et al. 2024. Edible Offal as a Valuable Source of Nutrients in the Diet—A Review.

    • Fuerniss HF, et al. 2024. Nutrient Analysis of Raw United States Beef Offal Items.

    • Joy JM, et al. 2024. A Review on Fish Skin-Derived Gelatin.

    • de Paz-Lugo P, et al. 2018. High glycine concentration increases collagen synthesis…
      McCarty MF, et al. 2018. Dietary Glycine Is Rate-Limiting for Glutathione Synthesis…

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      34 min
    • Episode 268: Wild American Foodscapes - Newfoundland

      Summary:

      Justin and Adam explore Newfoundland's unique food landscape shaped by environmental constraints, historical fishing practices, and cultural resilience. From wild fish and seal to the impact of ecological management and market forces, discover how this remote island balances abundance with sustainability.

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      ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The Art of Venison Sausage Making


      Special Guests

      Mark Kurlansky

      Lori McCarthy⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

      Jenn Shears

      Chapters


      00:00 The Landscape of Newfoundland's Food System

      02:09 Historical Context of Indigenous Food Practices

      04:58 The Impact of European Arrival on Food Systems

      07:05 The Role of Seal in Newfoundland's Culture and Economy

      10:47 Wildlife Management and Public Perception

      13:10 The Nutritional Value of Seal Meat

      16:59 The Collapse of the Cod Fishery and Its Aftermath

      21:46 Migration and Shifts in Food Systems

      24:13 Resilience and Continuity in Food Practices

      26:56 Sustainable Eating in Newfoundland


      Takeaways:

      Environmental constraints shaping food systems

      Historical and cultural significance of fishing and hunting

      Impact of policies on local food and economy


      Keywords:

      Newfoundland, wild food, seal hunting, cod fishery, sustainable fishing, food culture, ecological management, wild game, food preservation, ocean health

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      31 min

    About Wild Fish and Game Podcast

    From the publisher's feed

    The Wild Fish and Game Podcast explores wild food at the intersection of place, season, culture, and craft. Hosted by Justin Townsend and the Harvesting Nature team, the show goes beyond recipes and hunting stories to examine how food is grown, harvested, preserved, and carried through real life.

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