EatWild 107 - The Wildgame Gourmet - Cooking with Chef Larry White

In this episode of the EatWild Podcast, we sit down with the Wildgame Gourmet and lifelong hunter Larry White to talk about the deep connection between hunting, cooking, and sharing wild food. Larry’s journey started in the U.S. Coast Guard, where he trained as a chef before turning his passion toward wild game and the culinary traditions of hunters. From the foothills of North Carolina to the swamps and low country of South Carolina, Larry shares how different ecosystems shape the way we hunt and the strategies needed to succeed in diverse landscapes. We dig into practical hunting knowledge—from ambush setups and tree-stand heights to navigating jungles, swamps, and clear-cuts. Larry also shares some of the gear that helps him stay mobile and stealthy in the woods, including saddle hunting systems and climbing sticks. Of course, the conversation turns to the kitchen. Larry walks us through his approach to properly cooking wild game, emphasizing temperature control, muscle-specific preparation, and respect for the animal. We dive into techniques like brining, curing, and smoking venison, along with creative recipes such as cured venison loin, layered meatloaf, and bright green chimichurri sauces that elevate the natural flavour of wild meat. One of the big takeaways from this conversation is the importance of using the whole animal. Larry shares tips on working with underappreciated cuts like top round, bottom round, neck, and shanks—perfect for slow cooking, braising, and turning tough cuts into incredible meals. We also talk about the stories that make hunting meaningful—challenging recoveries, memorable hunts, and the joy of gathering friends and community around wild food, whether it’s a backyard cookout or a classic sausage-making party. This episode is a celebration of the full wild food journey—from the hunt to the table—and the people who make it special. Connect with Larry White: Instagram Google Search for Blog or Website Resources & Links: Larry White’s Wild Game Gourmet Blog Follow Chef Larry White on Instagram Lone Wolf Custom Gear Climbing Sticks Stikine Packrafts for Adventure iHunter App for Hunting Maps   00:00 - Welcome and episode overview—from wild hunting to gourmet cooking 02:17 - Introduction of sponsor: Stikine Packrafts—adventure-ready gear 03:14 - Larry White’s background: from North Carolina roots to Coast Guard chef 04:09 - Hunting locales: from North Carolina foothills to South Carolina estuaries 05:20 - Ecosystem insights: jungles, swamps, and pine stands—finding success 06:34 - Hunting strategies: ambush setups, tree stand heights, and terrain tips 08:08 - Challenges of hunting thick habitats and the gear that helps navigate them 09:03 - Hunting feral pigs—approach and personal insights 10:34 - Wild game as cuisine: wild boar, venison, and culinary myths 11:35 - Comparing wild boar and farm pork—marbling,flavourr, and texture 12:27 - Chef Larry’s culinary journey: from military to food trucks to wild game 14:52 - Essential skills for cooking venison: muscle-specific techniques and temperature control 17:36 - Crafting cured venison loin: process, benefits, anflavouror infusion 18:54 - The science of brining: moisture retention aflavourvor enhancement 20:25 - Slicing and serving cured meats—pflavouravor and texture considerations 21:19 - Smoking venison: techniques, timing, and unique approaches for game meats 22:22 - Dual-step cooking: braising then smoking for tender, flavorful wild game 25:34 - Creative holiday meals: curing, smoking, and innovative preparations for large groups 26:57 - Green sauces and chimichurri: enhancing venflavoursavors with fresh, vibrant toppings 27:52 - Ingredients for killer chimichurri and pairing ideas with wild meats 29:01 - Adventures in hunting: recoveries, field stories, and emotional moments 52:54 - Celebratory beverages after successful hunts—beer, stout, or other favourites 54:34 - Memorable harvest moments: field recoveries and the rewards of persistence 57:43 - Practical tips for managing meat after a tough recovery and field care 59:11 - Handling gut shot deer: ethical considerations and creative solutions 60:36 - The future of Larry’s wild game culinaryendeavourss, podcasts, and projects 61:10 - Connect with Larry: website, Instagram, and where to follow his culinary journey 62:28 - Closing remarks and farewell to listeners Resources & Links: Larry White’s Wild Game Gourmet Blog Follow Chef Larry White on Instagram Lone Wolf Custom Gear Climbing Sticks Stikine Packrafts for Adventure iHunter App for Hunting Maps   Connect with Larry White: Instagram Google Search for Blog or Website Note: Feel free to reach out to Larry for cooking questions; he’s available for tips, recipes, and advice on wild game culinary adventures.