This recipe for apple bacon wrapped Elk tenderloin will give you a whole new feeling about elk recipes. The tenderloin is marinated in a flavorful mix of red wine vinegar, balsamic vinegar, and spices, then wrapped in crispy bacon along with slices of granny smith apples. Served with roasted asparagus makes it a perfect choice for a special dinner.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways:

Author Expertise: Laurel Rodgers is the creator of Boondocking Recipes. She is known for her fire cooking journey and delicious results with her recipes.
Elk Meat Benefits: The apple bacon wrapped Elk tenderloin is low in fat and cholesterol, making it a healthy option for meals.
Healthy Fats: Elk meat has a beneficial mixture of fats that are good for heart health due to the animal’s herbivorous diet.

Fat Content Comparison: Elk meat has lower fat content and healthier fat composition compared to corn-fed beef, making it a leaner choice.
Preparation Tips: Seasoned backstrap wrapped in bacon and grilled, and whole tenderloin roasted, are the best cuts for the apple bacon wrapped Elk tenderloin.
Flavor Enhancements: Stuffing the loin with cream cheese, wrapping it in bacon, and adding Worcestershire sauce ramp up the flavor and moisture of the elk roast.

Recipe Ingredients: Elk Tenderloin, apples, mandarin orange, garlic, red wine vinegar, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, liquid smoke, red pepper flakes, bacon, salt, and pepper are all used in the recipe.
Health Benefits: The nutrient-rich elk meat contains polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) for a healthier eating choice.

FAQ For the Apple Bacon Wrapped Elk Tenderloin

Q: What is the recipe for the apple bacon wrapped Elk tenderloin?

A: To make the apple bacon wrapped Elk tenderloin, you will need 4 lb. of Elk Tenderloin, 2 granny smith apples, 1 mandarin orange, 1 tbsp. of chopped garlic, 1/2 cup of red wine vinegar, 1/2 cup of balsamic vinegar, 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 tsp of liquid smoke, 2 tsp of salt, 2 tsp of red pepper flakes, 1/2 lb. of bacon, and salt and pepper. For roasted asparagus, simply wash and trim asparagus spears, drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast in the oven until tender.

Q: Why is Elk meat a healthy option?

A: Elk meat is an excellent choice for a healthy diet due to its low fat and cholesterol content. A 3-ounce portion of Elk contains only 7.4 grams of fat and 164 calories, making it a lean protein option. Additionally, Elk are herbivorous animals that consume a diet of grass, shrubs, and trees, resulting in a healthy fat composition that is beneficial for heart health.

Q: What are the benefits of choosing Elk meat over other types of red meat?

A: Elk meat offers several advantages over other types of red meat. Compared to beef from corn-fed animals, Elk meat has lower fat content and a healthier fat composition, with a higher proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA). Elk, deer, bison, and pasture-fed cattle have leaner meat with less fat even after trimming, making Elk a healthier protein choice for those looking to reduce saturated fats and increase nutrient-rich options in their diet.

Other Elk Recipes to Try

Elkburger Helper Recipe

Best Ground Elk and Potato Loaf Recipe

Campfire Pan Fried Elk Tenderloin With Herb Butter Recipe

Overview of Elk Meat

Nutritional Benefits

One of the main reasons why elk meat is highly prized is due to its nutritional benefits. A 3-ounce portion of elk meat is low in fat and cholesterol, with 7.4 grams of fat and 164 calories. This makes elk meat a delicious yet beneficial option for your body.

Comparisons to Other Meats

Elk Meat	Beef
Higher proportion of PUFA	Higher saturated fatty acids and omega-6
Lower fat content	Twice as much fat content

For instance, elk meat has lower fat content and a healthier fat composition compared to beef. Elk are herbivorous animals that have a healthier diet, resulting in a meat that is better for heart health. Grass-fed elk, deer, and bison have a leaner meat profile compared to pasture-fed cattle or corn-fed beef.

Selecting Quality Elk Tenderloin

Factors to Consider

When selecting elk tenderloin for your apple bacon wrapped Elk tenderloin, there are a few key factors to consider. Look for cuts that are lean and low in fat, such as elk meat, which is known to be extremely low in fat and cholesterol. Grass-fed elk, like other pasture-fed animals, offer a healthier fat composition, with a higher proportion of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) compared to corn-fed beef.

Choose lean cuts
Choose grass-fed elk
Consider the fat composition

Recognizing the quality and source of the elk meat you choose can make a big difference in the taste and health benefits of your dish.

Where to Purchase Elk Meat

With the rising popularity of elk meat, it is becoming more widely available. Look for local specialty butcher shops, farmers’ markets, or online vendors that offer high-quality elk tenderloin. Where you purchase your elk meat can determine its freshness and quality, ensuring a delicious and nutritious meal for your family and friends..

Apple Bacon Wrapped Elk Tenderloin Recipe

Ingredients List

An apple bacon-wrapped elk tenderloin recipe is a delicious and wholesome dish that is easy to prepare. To make this mouth-watering dish, you will need a 4 lb elk tenderloin, 2 granny smith apples, 1 mandarin orange, chopped garlic, red wine vinegar, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, liquid smoke, salt, red pepper flakes, and bacon. Season with salt and pepper for added flavor.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Any time you roast elk meat, it’s crucial to ensure that it doesn’t dry out. Here is a simple step-by-step guide to preparing the apple bacon-wrapped elk tenderloin:

Step 1:	Prepare the Elk Tenderloin
1.	Season the elk tenderloin with salt, red pepper flakes, and any other desired seasonings.
2.	Wrap the tenderloin in bacon slices, ensuring it is fully covered.
3.	Preheat the grill or oven to the desired temperature.

Step 2:	Cooking the Elk Tenderloin
1.	Place the seasoned and bacon-wrapped elk tenderloin on the grill or in the oven.
2.	Cook the tenderloin until it reaches the desired level of doneness, ensuring it stays juicy.
3.	Let the elk tenderloin rest before slicing and serving for optimal flavor.

Cooking the apple bacon-wrapped elk tenderloin to perfection requires attention to detail. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can create a delicious and memorable dish that will impress your family and friends.

Side Dishes

Roasted Asparagus

Asparagus is a fantastic side dish to pair with the rich and flavorful Elk Tenderloin. Despite being low in fat and calories, it is packed with necessary nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Roasting asparagus enhances its natural sweetness and adds a delicious smoky flavor that complements the savory elk meat perfectly.