When it comes to cooking with wild game, few animals evoke as much excitement and curiosity as bears. With their rugged exterior and mighty strength, it’s no wonder that chefs and home cooks alike are eager to get creative in the kitchen with bear meat. From hearty stews and roasts to flavorful stir-fries and burgers, there’s a world of delicious possibilities when it comes to cooking with bear.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 savory bear meat recipes that are sure to satisfy even the most adventurous palates. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or simply looking for new ways to cook with wild game, these recipes are sure to inspire and delight. From classic dishes like slow-cooked stews and pan-seared steaks to innovative creations like bear tacos and bear curry, we’ll be covering it all. So grab your apron, sharpen your knife, and get ready to take a culinary journey into the heart of bear country!
Slow-Cooked Bear Stew with Root Vegetables
This comforting stew is perfect for a cold winter’s day. Tender beef and root vegetables slow-cooked in a rich broth will warm your heart and belly.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of red wine
– 1 cup of beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef cubes in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Grilled Bear Meat Skewers with Garlic Marinade
A savory and aromatic twist on traditional skewers, these grilled bear meat skewers are perfect for adventurous eaters. Marinate the bear meat in a mixture of garlic, olive oil, and herbs before grilling to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb bear meat (e.g., brown bear or black bear), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 10 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
3. Add bear meat cubes to the marinade and mix well to coat.
4. Thread marinated bear meat onto skewers, leaving a small space between each cube.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Bear Meat Chili with Beans and Spices
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a cold winter night. This bear meat chili is loaded with tender chunks of bear, creamy beans, and a blend of savory spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb bear meat (ground or cubed), cooked and drained
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bear meat over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add the beef broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let cook for at least 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pan-Seared Bear Steak with Red Wine Reduction
Elevate your dinner game with this bold and rich dish featuring pan-seared bear steak smothered in a reduction of red wine, perfect for a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6 oz) bear steak
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup red wine (Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot work well)
– 1/4 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season bear steak with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add olive oil to preheated skillet; sear bear steak for 3-4 minutes per side, or until desired level of doneness is reached.
4. Remove bear steak from skillet; set aside.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low; add red wine and beef broth to skillet.
6. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan; simmer reduction for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Serve bear steak with red wine reduction spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Bear Meat Bolognese Pasta Sauce
A hearty and savory pasta sauce made with tender bear meat, perfect for a cold winter’s night. This recipe combines the rich flavors of bear meat with traditional Italian ingredients to create a unique and delicious twist on classic bolognese.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground bear meat
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground bear meat over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the red wine, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the sauce to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. If desired, stir in the heavy cream to add a creamy touch.
6. Serve over cooked pasta and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoked Bear Roast with Herb Rub
Savor the rich flavor of smoked bear roast infused with a blend of herbs and spices.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 pound bear roast (such as black bear or brown bear)
– 1/4 cup herb rub (see below for recipe)
– 1 cup wood chips (hickory, oak, or apple work well)
– 1 cup water
– Optional: your favorite BBQ sauce
Herb Rub Recipe:
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your smoker to 225°F (110°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the herb rub ingredients.
3. Rub the herb mixture all over the bear roast, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Place the bear roast in the smoker, fat side up.
5. Add wood chips as needed to maintain a consistent temperature and smoky flavor.
6. Smoke for 8-10 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Finish with your favorite BBQ sauce, if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours
Bear Meat Tacos with Fresh Salsa
This bold recipe combines the richness of bear meat with the brightness of fresh salsa, perfect for adventurous eaters. Please note that handling and cooking bear meat requires special care to ensure food safety.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb bear meat (ground or cubed), cooked through
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Fresh salsa ingredients: 1 cup diced tomatoes, 1/2 cup diced red onion, 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped, 2 tbsp lime juice, salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook bear meat to desired level of doneness.
2. In a pan, sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until softened.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos with cooked bear meat, sautéed vegetables, and fresh salsa.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Note: Bear meat should be handled and cooked according to local food safety guidelines. If you’re unsure about the handling or cooking process, please consult a trusted resource.
Bear and Wild Mushroom Risotto
This creamy risotto is a hearty dish perfect for a chilly evening. The earthy flavors of wild mushrooms and the richness of bear combine to create a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed wild mushrooms (such as chanterelle, cremini, and shiitake), cleaned and sliced
– 2 cups bear strips (or beef or pork, if preferred)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add bear strips (or alternative protein) and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add Arborio rice and stir to combine with the mushroom mixture. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, the risotto should be creamy and tender. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bear Meat Shepherd’s Pie
Get ready to paws-itively delight your taste buds with this unconventional take on the classic Shepherd’s Pie. This dish combines tender bear meat with savory vegetables and a crispy mashed potato crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb bear meat (ground or chopped), cooked
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms, sliced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion, garlic, mushrooms, and peas and carrots until tender.
3. Add the cooked bear meat, tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Top with mashed potatoes and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Bear Burgers with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with these juicy Bear Burgers topped with sweet and savory caramelized onions. A perfect combination of flavors and textures that will leave everyone wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 4 Bear Burgers (or any ground beef patty)
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– Optional toppings: cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickles
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium-low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Meanwhile, form Bear Burgers into patties and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill burgers for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
5. Assemble burgers by spreading a spoonful of caramelized onions on the bottom bun, followed by a patty, then top with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (including onion caramelization)
Bear Meat Goulash with Paprika
A hearty and flavorful Hungarian-inspired stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe uses tender beef, rich paprika, and a blend of spices to create a comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (such as chuck or round), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 cup beef broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add beef and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
5. Add diced tomatoes and beef broth; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 30-40 minutes or until beef is tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Bear Sausage and Peppers Skillet
Get ready for a hearty and flavorful one-pan meal with this Bear Sausage and Peppers Skillet recipe. This comforting dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb bear sausage (or pork sausage), sliced
– 2 large bell peppers, any color, sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook for 5 minutes, or until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the sliced bell peppers to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until tender.
5. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and stir in smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bear Meat Stir-Fry with Asian Vegetables
This hearty stir-fry combines tender bear meat with a medley of colorful Asian vegetables, creating a unique and flavorful dish that’s perfect for adventurous eaters. Served over steamed rice or noodles, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb bear meat (coarsely chopped), cooked according to package instructions
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed Asian vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and snow peas)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add bear meat, Asian vegetables, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Bear Meatloaf with Bacon Wrap
A hearty twist on the classic meatloaf, this recipe adds a savory bacon wrap for an added layer of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
– 1 large onion, chopped
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, ketchup, brown sugar, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a loaf pan or shape into a loaf shape.
4. Wrap each half of bacon around the meatloaf, securing with toothpicks if necessary.
5. Place the meatloaf on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
7. Let rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Bear and Berry Stuffed Acorn Squash
Roasted acorn squash filled with a sweet and savory mixture of dried bear’s berries, sausage, and herbs is the perfect comfort food for a chilly evening. This recipe is easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium acorn squash
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1/4 cup dried bear’s berries (or cranberries)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half lengthwise and scoop out seeds.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add olive oil, onion, garlic, bear’s berries, sage, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes.
5. Stuff each squash half with the sausage mixture and place on a baking sheet.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Bear Meat Curry with Coconut Milk
A rich and flavorful curry that combines the heartiness of bear meat with the creaminess of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb bear meat (or beef/buffalo), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, and ginger; cook until onions are translucent.
3. Add bear meat; cook until browned on all sides.
4. Stir in cumin, turmeric, and chili powder; cook for 1 minute.
5. Pour in coconut milk; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low; let curry cook for 20-25 minutes or until the meat is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with cilantro leaves; serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bear Jerky with Maple Glaze
This recipe combines the classic flavors of bear jerky with the sweetness of a maple glaze, creating a unique and delicious snack. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts or anyone looking to try something new.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound bear meat (such as black bear or brown bear), cut into thin strips
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 150°F (65°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, soy sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and smoked paprika.
3. Place bear strips in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Brush the maple glaze evenly over both sides of the bear strips.
5. Bake for 3-4 hours or until jerky reaches desired level of dryness.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely before storing.
Cooking Time: 3-4 hours
Bear Meat Pot Pie with Flaky Crust
This hearty pot pie is perfect for a cozy dinner with friends and family. The flaky crust adds a delightful textural contrast to the rich, savory filling.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup butter
– 1/2 cup vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing crust)
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté mushrooms, onion, and garlic until tender.
3. Add flour, butter, broth, and cream; stir until combined.
4. Roll out the pie crust and fill with mushroom mixture.
5. Brush edges with beaten egg and cover with another piece of pie crust.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Bear Kebabs with Pineapple and Peppers
These flavorful kebabs combine the richness of bear (such as beef or pork) with the sweetness of pineapple and peppers, perfect for a summer barbecue.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound bear meat (beef or pork), cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Thread bear cubes, pineapple chunks, and bell pepper slices onto skewers.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, and brown sugar.
4. Brush the mixture evenly over the kebabs.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until bear is cooked through.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Bear Ragu over Creamy Polenta
This comforting dish is a perfect representation of the union between tender bear meat and creamy polenta. The rich flavors of the ragu will transport you to the heart of Italy, while the smooth polenta adds a delightful contrast in texture.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb bear meat (ground or cubed), browned
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup polenta
– 4 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tbsp butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Brown the bear meat in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, and oregano. Simmer for 10 minutes.
4. Bring polenta and water or broth to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Stir in butter until melted.
6. Serve the bear ragu over creamy polenta.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Summary
Get ready to sink your teeth into the rich flavors of bear meat with these 20 savory recipes! From slow-cooked stews and grilled skewers, to pasta sauces and burgers, there’s something for every adventurous cook. Try making a hearty Slow-Cooked Bear Stew or Grilled Bear Meat Skewers with Garlic Marinade. Or go bold with Bear Burgers with Caramelized Onions or Bear Meat Goulash with Paprika. Whatever your taste buds desire, these recipes will take you on a culinary journey through the world of bear meat cuisine.