History and Origins of Pemmican: An Ancient Survival Food

Pemmican is a unique food that has been used by Indigenous peoples of North America for centuries. It is made from a combination of dried meat, usually buffalo or other game, and rendered fat. This mixture was then dried and formed into small cakes or balls that could be stored for long periods of time. Pemmican was a valuable food source for Indigenous peoples during times of scarcity and was also used as a trading commodity with European fur traders. 

Today, pemmican remains a popular food among outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists. Its high nutrient content and long shelf life make it an ideal food for those who spend extended periods of time in remote areas. In this article, we will explore the history and origins of pemmican, its importance to Indigenous peoples, and its enduring legacy in modern times. 

The Indigenous Roots of Pemmican

Pemmican has been a staple food of Indigenous peoples of North America for centuries. The exact origins of pemmican are not known, but it is believed to have been developed by Indigenous peoples living on the Great Plains of North America. The Plains tribes were nomadic and relied on buffalo for their survival. Pemmican was a vital food source that allowed them to store meat for long periods of time and carry it with them on their journeys. 

The word “pemmican” comes from the Cree word “pimikan,” which means “fat.” The Cree were one of the many Indigenous tribes that used pemmican as a survival food. They would hunt buffalo and other game, dry the meat, and then mix it with rendered fat. The mixture was then shaped into small cakes or balls and stored for later use. Pemmican was also used in ceremonies and was considered a sacred food among many Indigenous tribes. 

How Pemmican Was Made

The process of making pemmican was a time-consuming and labor-intensive process. First, the meat was cut into thin strips and dried over a fire or in the sun. The dried meat was then pounded into a powder using a stone or wooden pestle. The fat was rendered by melting it over a low heat and then straining out any impurities. The powdered meat was then mixed with the rendered fat and any additional ingredients, such as berries or nuts. 

The mixture was then shaped into small cakes or balls and allowed to cool. Pemmican was a dense, high-calorie food that could be eaten on its own or mixed with other ingredients to make stews or soups. It was also an ideal food for travel, as it could be easily carried and stored for long periods of time without spoiling. 

Pemmican’s Role in the Fur Trade

Pemmican played a crucial role in the fur trade between Indigenous peoples and European traders. The fur trade began in the late 17th century and continued until the mid-19th century. European traders would exchange goods, such as guns, blankets, and metal tools, for furs with Indigenous peoples. Pemmican was also used as a trading commodity, as it could be transported long distances without spoiling. 

The fur trade brought significant changes to Indigenous societies, including the introduction of new technologies and diseases, and the displacement of Indigenous peoples from their traditional lands. Despite this, pemmican remained an important food source for Indigenous peoples and continued to be used for survival and trade. 

Pemmican and the Canadian Westward Expansion

Pemmican played a critical role in the westward expansion of Canada during the 19th century. The Canadian government encouraged settlers to move westward, and pemmican was a vital food source for those who made the journey. Pemmican was also used by the North West Mounted Police, who were responsible for maintaining law and order in the Canadian West. 

The demand for pemmican was so great that the Canadian government imposed restrictions on the buffalo hunt, which caused tension between Indigenous peoples and the government. The restrictions led to the North West Rebellion of 1885, which was a significant event in Canadian history. Despite these challenges, pemmican remained an important food source for Indigenous peoples and continued to be used for survival and trade. 

Pemmican’s Nutrition and Shelf Life

Pemmican is a highly nutritious food that is rich in protein, fat, and carbohydrates. It is also high in calories and was an ideal food for Indigenous peoples who needed energy for hunting and traveling. Pemmican also has a long shelf life and can be stored for months or even years without spoiling. 

The high nutrient content and long shelf life of pemmican make it an ideal food for outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists. Modern-day pemmican is often made with leaner cuts of meat, such as beef or venison, and can include additional ingredients, such as fruit or spices. 

Modern-Day Pemmican and Its Varieties

Today, pemmican remains a popular food among outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists. Modern-day pemmican is often made with leaner cuts of meat, such as beef or venison, and can include additional ingredients, such as fruit or spices. Some companies even produce vegan versions of pemmican, made from plant-based ingredients. 

Pemmican is a convenient and nutritious food that is ideal for those who spend extended periods of time in remote areas. It is also a popular snack for those who follow a low-carb or paleo diet. 

The Enduring Legacy of Pemmican

Pemmican has a rich history and an enduring legacy that continues to this day. It is a unique food that has played a critical role in the survival and trade of Indigenous peoples of North America. Today, pemmican remains a popular food among outdoor enthusiasts and survivalists, and its high nutrient content and long shelf life make it an ideal food for those who spend extended periods of time in remote areas. The story of pemmican is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of Indigenous peoples and their ability to adapt to changing circumstances.

Source: Best Pemmican (Steadfast Provisions)