Clearly , there ’ s a path that each of us can take within our own little worlds that can help promote the acceptance of hunting . Talk about hunting to non-hunters , but do it in the context of food in the beginning ( as opposed to the hunt , shot or size of its rack ). Garner trust and common ground discussing the benefits of wild game , such as how it ’ s high in protein , the fat is lean and beneficial , the organic and clean nature of the meat compared to store-bought , and the wild , free life the animal lived .
Discuss the various cuts of meat and why some muscle groups are more tender while others are turned into burger . Dispel myths about predators like bears and mountain lions not being eaten by telling them how lions are a tender white meat akin to pork and fattier bear can make amazing sausage . Share preparation steps and recipes with them to demonstrate how you honor the animal from field to fork , which will further draw them in and provide a peek into an unknown world .
Go the extra mile and bring a package of snack sticks or jerky to the bar or appetizers to a holiday party . Give a package of steaks to a friend with instructions on preparation ( including
cooking the meat rare to medium rare to keep it moist and tender , as well as marinades or rubs to use and suggested side dishes to complete the meal ).
Exposing non-hunters to our world through food is an easy way to further the conversation and acceptance of hunting in general . As your foundation of common understanding strengthens , you can filter in more education in the form of facts , trivia or statistics . If you build enough rapport , you can then begin to address more controversial and less accepted subjects around hunting — that trust you ’ ve built up through food and facts will predispose the person to listening to what you ’ re saying with a more open mind .
That impression you leave might change the individual ’ s opinion of some form of hunting on the spot , or it might linger in the person ’ s mind for days . It could percolate to consciousness and undermine the next negative hunting headline that hits the news cycle or when a legislative bill or ballot initiative comes up . Imagine the impact America ’ s 15 million hunters could have if they did this with just a handful of people they each knew or met . All of us can do it ; it ’ s just a matter of trying .
Be sure to explain to non-hunters why wild game is best cooked rare . Another discussion could center on cuts of meat and muscle groups .
Don ' t limit meals to just deer and elk . Small-game animals like rabbits can make tasty — and visually appealing — dishes , too .
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