By Dr. Hillary Lampers
Bring bold flavors to your table with these **Antelope Jalapeño Poppers**! Perfect for parties, game day, or a hearty appetizer, this wild game twist on the classic jalapeño popper combines tender antelope backstrap, creamy cheese, spicy jalapeños, and smoky bacon.
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Ingredients
– 1 antelope backstrap (marinated)
– 8 slices of bacon
– 1 block (8 oz) cream cheese, softened
– 4 large jalapeños, sliced lengthwise and seeded
– Twine or toothpicks (to secure)
For the Marinade:
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– 1 tbsp fresh minced garlic
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Instructions
1. Marinate the Antelope Backstrap
– In a bowl or resealable bag, combine olive oil, soy sauce, lemon juice, and minced garlic.
– Slice the backstrap into thin, long strips (about 1/2-inch wide).
– Add the backstrap strips to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for maximum flavor.
2. Assemble the Poppers
– Preheat your Traeger grill (or oven) to 400°F.
– Spread a generous amount of cream cheese into each halved jalapeño.
– Place a marinated antelope strip on top of the cream cheese.
– Wrap each jalapeño half with a slice of bacon, securing the ends with twine or toothpicks.
3. Cook the Poppers
– Arrange the poppers on the preheated Traeger grill, ensuring they’re evenly spaced.
– Cook at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, or until the bacon is sizzling and crispy.
– Check the internal temperature of the backstrap to ensure it reaches at least 135°F for medium-rare.
4. Serve and Enjoy
– Remove the poppers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes.
– Serve warm as a delicious appetizer or side dish.
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Tips and Variations
– Make it Spicier: Leave the seeds in the jalapeños or add a sprinkle of cayenne to the cream cheese.
– Substitutions: This recipe also works well with elk, deer, or beef tenderloin.
– Pairings: Serve with a smoky BBQ sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.
This recipe makes enough for 8 people and will have everyone coming back for seconds! These Antelope Jalapeño Poppers are smoky, creamy, and bursting with flavor—a must-try for wild game enthusiasts. 🍖🔥🌶️
