Panko Crusted Elk Backstrap

Fried elk backstrap is one of my favorite meals. It's easy, quick, and so good. And I love using panko crumbs when frying because they get so crispy and actually absorb less oil than traditional breadcrumbs or flour. Since I purchased the HuntChef "Canadian Carnivore" Seasoning at ATA, I wanted to try it out on something I normally make to see how it tastes. Spoiler Alert: It's delicious!

This recipe is very easy, and although I used elk backstrap, you could use any cut and type of meat (deer, beef, turkey, etc.). For tougher cuts, I let the meat thaw in the refrigerator for a couple days which helps tenderize it.

Serves: 3

Ingredients:

• 1lb meat, sliced into 1/4" steaks

• 1 large egg, beaten

• 2 cups plain panko crumbs

• HuntChef "Canadian Carnivore" Seasoning

• Oil for frying

Directions:

Season panko crumbs with Canadian Carnivore seasoning; I just had a bowl of panko and started shaking seasoning into it and mixing until it looked like enough.

Heat oil in a large non-stick or cast-iron skillet. You just need enough for frying each side, but don't need to fully submerge the meat since you'll flip it.

Coat meat slices in egg, then coat in panko; the egg will help the panko stick better. Make sure you press the panko crumbs into the meat to get it fully coated on both sides. Let the meat sit for a few minutes while the oil gets hot.

Once the oil is hot for frying, carefully place the steaks into the skillet and let fry for 4-5 minutes, then flip and fry the other side. You want the steaks to be golden brown, and not overdone. Try not to flip more than once or your panko may start coming off.

Remove from the oil and place on a paper towel, then season with more Canadian Carnivore.

Serve with your favorite sides. I prefer mashed potatoes (instant, Idahoan brand!) and green beans sauteed with butter, garlic, and pepper, then topped with parmesan cheese.

Enjoy!

Sarah Honadel is an avid outdoorswoman from Kentucky, now living in Idaho, who enjoys hunting elk, deer, turkey, pronghorn, and waterfowl. She is a team member at Huntress View, Pro Staff for Browning Trail Cameras, and Brand Ambassador for the GoWild app and BaseMap app. Follow her on Instagram @waddysarah.