Traeger Teriyaki Venison Backstrap

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

If you love tender, flavorful venison, this Traeger Teriyaki Venison Backstrap is a must-try. The smoky essence from the Traeger grill perfectly complements the sweet and savory teriyaki marinade, creating a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe is easy to prepare and guarantees juicy, delicious results every time.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Venison backstrap
• Teriyaki sauce
• Soy sauce
• Brown sugar
• Garlic, minced
• Ginger, grated
• Sesame oil
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Green onions, for garnish
• Sesame seeds, for garnish

Directions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
2. Marinate the Venison: Place the venison backstrap in a resealable bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over it. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight.
3. Preheat the Traeger Grill: Set your Traeger grill to 225°F and allow it to preheat.
4. Smoke the Venison: Remove the backstrap from the marinade and place it on the grill grates. Smoke for about 1 hour or until the internal temperature reaches 125°F for rare or 135°F for medium-rare.
5. Sear the Backstrap: Increase the Traeger temperature to 400°F and sear the venison for 1-2 minutes on each side to develop a flavorful crust.
6. Rest and Serve: Remove from the grill, let it rest for 10 minutes, then slice against the grain. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Marinating Time: 2-12 hours
• Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Total Time: Varies depending on marinating time

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add Sriracha or chili paste to the marinade for extra heat.
• Honey Glaze: Substitute brown sugar with honey for a slightly different sweetness.
• Citrus Infusion: Add a splash of orange juice for a bright, tangy flavor.
• Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh rosemary or thyme for added aroma.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover venison in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm it gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 300°F to prevent overcooking.
• Freezing: Wrap the cooked venison tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

How do I keep venison from drying out on the grill?

Marinating the venison and cooking it to the right internal temperature (125-135°F) ensures it stays juicy.

Can I use a different cut of venison for this recipe?

Yes, but backstrap is the most tender and flavorful cut. Other cuts may require longer cooking times.

What if I don’t have a Traeger grill?

You can use any pellet grill or even a standard grill with a smoker box for a similar result.

How long should I marinate the venison?

At least 2 hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor infusion.

What sides go well with teriyaki venison backstrap?

Rice, grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad pair well with this dish.

Can I make my own teriyaki sauce?

Yes! Combine soy sauce, brown sugar, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil to make a simple homemade teriyaki sauce.

How do I know when the venison is done?

Use a meat thermometer. Rare is 125°F, and medium-rare is 135°F.

Can I cook this recipe indoors?

Yes, you can sear the venison in a hot skillet and finish it in the oven at 225°F until it reaches the desired internal temperature.

What wood pellets are best for smoking venison?

Hickory, mesquite, or cherry wood pellets enhance the flavor of venison.

Can I meal prep this recipe?

Yes, marinate the venison in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to grill.

Conclusion

Traeger Teriyaki Venison Backstrap is a smoky, tender, and flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned wild game enthusiast or trying venison for the first time, this recipe ensures a delicious result. Enjoy it with your favorite sides and savor the incredible taste of grilled perfection.

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