Garlic Pepper BBQ Glaze on Grilled Venison Backstrap

Garlic Pepper BBQ Glaze on Grilled Venison Backstrap

Grilled venison backstrap glazed and sliced showing a pink center
Photo via Unsplash

A garlic pepper BBQ glaze is one of the best ways to dress up venison backstrap without covering up what makes this cut special. Backstrap is the tenderloin of the deer, lean and mild with none of the gaminess people sometimes associate with venison, so it deserves a glaze that complements rather than masks it.

Why Venison Backstrap Deserves Better Than a Marinade Dunk

Backstrap is naturally tender and doesn't need hours in a marinade to break down connective tissue the way tougher cuts do. A garlic pepper BBQ glaze applied late in a quick grill session adds flavor and a beautiful caramelized crust without the risk of overcooking this lean, easy-to-dry-out cut.

Building the Glaze

Garlic Pepper Spread gives this glaze its savory backbone, matching well with venison's clean, mild flavor. For a bolder, more adventurous version, stir in a spoonful of Jalapeño Blackberry Spread, whose dark fruit notes are a classic match for game meat.

Step-by-Step: Grilled Venison Backstrap

  1. Trim silverskin from a 1.5-2 pound venison backstrap.
  2. Season simply with salt, pepper, and a touch of garlic powder.
  3. Sear over direct high heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
  4. Warm 1/3 cup Garlic Pepper Spread with 2 tablespoons Jalapeño Blackberry Spread and a pat of butter until smooth.
  5. Brush a generous coat of glaze over the backstrap and move to indirect heat.
  6. Cook until internal temperature reaches 130-135°F for medium-rare, brushing a second coat halfway through.
  7. Rest for 8-10 minutes before slicing thin against the grain.

Why Doneness Matters So Much With Venison

Venison backstrap has almost no fat marbling, so it goes from tender to tough fast if it's cooked past medium. Pull it early - venison carries over a few degrees during rest just like beef - and always slice thin to maximize tenderness in every bite.

Serving Suggestions

Serve sliced backstrap alongside roasted root vegetables or a simple wild rice pilaf. A drizzle of the leftover warm glaze over the sliced meat at the table finishes the dish beautifully.

Shop Garlic Pepper Spread and Jalapeño Blackberry Spread at smokymountainspread.com to try this garlic pepper BBQ glaze on your next venison harvest.

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