soaking deer

[brain]

my question is when you get a deer in warm weather i usually quarter mine and put it on ice til i butcher it.i was wondering is there a benefit to soak it in ice water to get the blood out and if so should i add salt to the water? thanks

[muggs]

Re: soaking deer

I would try to keep water off the meat as much as possible. I think that would promote bateria growth, and I think the salt would affect the flavor once you cook it.

As long as you skin it out quick and keep it cool you're fine.

[rockefeller66]

Re: soaking deer

we have shot deer in 70+ degrees temps and gut them take them home, debone them, then freeze what we want for sausage and the rest we cut up for steaks. I see no need to ice it, just cut it up and put it in the fridge or freezer.

[Tominator]

Re: soaking deer

I only soak right before I cook. Cold water is best for bleeding the meat, and salt will help in preserving. You don't want to use warm water because that actually starts the cooking process.

[Guest PSEHUNTER087]

Re: soaking deer

I have never heard of soaking the deer in water after skinning but it sounds like it would cause more bacteria to grow. When i shoot a deer i gut it out, hang it and rinse the body cavity out to rid the blood and small pieces of the guts out, I have also found that if you cut the tenderloins out right after this you end up with a much better steak.