Bison Cooking Tips?

I've been cooking bison since before I started Egging. Here are some general observations.

The main difference between bison and beef is that bison will be leaner than most if not all beef you've used, and any connective tissue will be a lot tougher. It is also sweeter and milder in flavor.

The amount of fat and toughness depends some on how the animal was raised. I've had complete free range bison from S.D., and it had almost no fat. I've had pasture raised from Minnesota, and it had a bit more fat, and was more tender. For the past 2 years I've bought from a farm here in No. Indiana. They have fairly small pastures. The bison get some grain every now and then. I believe they said 1 day every 10. There is maybe 5% fat in their ground.

So, general tips. I usually mix a little beef with ground for making burger. And/or mix in some marinade for both the extra fluid and oil. The first time I tried pan frying bison burger, it burnt to the pan, and I had to add butter to keep it from sticking.

Steaks can be done pretty much like beef, but do not take them past medium rare. They will dry out. Also expect what connective tissue there is to be leathery.

Roasts benefit from marinade. Slow cooked bison chuck is really good, although there is a line of cartilege in the center that might as well be bone.

Short ribs can be done pretty much like beef, but are likely to have one tough side. A little foiling for both ribs and roasts is a plus.

I've been lucky enough to get a heart. After splitting it open and carefully trimming off the extensive connective tissue, I first brined it over night and then marinaded for 4 hours. Then did it like brisket. Basted a little with apple juice. Turned out great.

But most often, heart is cubed up, and cooked kebab style. Most people would take it for bits of steak.

I did a piece of brisket. It looked like a flat portion. Had less success with that, and suppose a few hours in foil would have helped a lot.

I generally use fruit wood for the smoke. Hickory is a bit much for the mild flavor.

Enjoy, it great meat.