Tapang Usa (Deer Jerky)

Posted by The Chubbychef on Feb 23, 2010 in Featured Articles, General Food News, Traveling Foodie

I recently went on an excursion to Norzagaray with some photographers to shoot both the dam and  some local tribes. Alas, the water level in the IPO Dam was dangerously low which really was scaring me. We weren’t able to encounter some Dumagats as well. We ended up hunting for Tapang Usa or Deer Jerky. We wanted some Wild Boar too, but it we couldn’t find any at the local market as well as some specialty shops.

Norzagaray Expedition

Norzagaray Expedition

As soon as I got home I brought out a skillet, drizzled some oil and waited till the pan was hot enough. I cut the jerky into bite sizes since tapang usa is known for how tough the meat is. The toughness of the meat is compensated for how flavorful or rather the unique taste deer meat has. It was a great way to end a day of adventure and excitement.

I have always wondered what the novelty was in eating unique meats. Whether it be goat, deer, boar, or even dogs and cats, I could never understand why eating these things was such a delight. Should you decide to be more adventurous, you would have to explore lizard, snakes, or even bats. Maybe I should include these things on my bucket list?

Tapang Usa Adobo Rice and Egg

As expected the meat was indeed quite tough. After a few pieces, I found my jaw experiencing some sort of pain after chewing for quite some time. But there was indeed a unique taste to the beef. Its not as complex as some other meats, but it did have this smokey taste even though it was just fried. I want to try grilling the meat this weekend to see if the grilling will help the toughness. Watch out for my post!