Pemmican, a nutrient-dense and portable food, has long been a staple in the diets of Native American people. It’s a food that tells the story of survival, resilience, and ingenuity. For centuries, pemmican served as a crucial source of sustenance, prized for its ability to preserve nutrition in the harshest environments and under the most challenging conditions. Today, at SweetGrass Trading Company, we’re honored to offer a modern twist on this ancient recipe by offering Pemmican Patty Bisonberry Blends.
A rich history
The origins of pemmican date back to the Indigenous peoples of the Great Plains, who perfected the technique of creating this protein-packed snack. Traditionally, pemmican was made from a combination of dried meat—often bison, elk, or deer—mixed with rendered fat and sometimes berries. The mixture was then shaped into dense, compact bars that could withstand the elements for months without spoiling, making it an ideal food for long journeys.
Pemmican also symbolized a deep connection to the land, its resources, and the people who have lived in harmony with it for centuries. The process of making pemmican was often a communal activity, with family and community members coming together to prepare large quantities for winter or for trade.
The word “pemmican” itself comes from the Cree word pimîhkân, which means “grease” or “fat,” reflecting the essential fat content of the food. This fat, combined with dried meat, provided the necessary energy and calories to sustain people through harsh winters or during times when food was scarce. In a way, pemmican became a symbol of survival and resilience.
Reviving tradition with Pemmican Patty
At SweetGrass Trading Company, we strive to honor and celebrate the rich history of Native American traditions, especially when it comes to food. We currently offer Pemmican Patty Bisonberry Blends, a modern take on the recipe, bringing together the power of tradition with contemporary flavors.
Pemmican Patty is owned by Patricia Mabin, a descendant of Chief Little Thunder (Joseph Gourneau) and his father before him, Old Wild Rice, one of the earliest recorded chiefs of the Pembina/Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians. The pemmican bars feature a blend of bison and 100% grass-fed beef, both raised without antibiotics or added hormones. We currently offer two delicious flavors from Pemmican Patty.
One blend combines cherries, chipotle, and maple—a unique combination that offers a delightful balance of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors. The second blend features blueberries and sage—a pairing that reflects a harmonious blend of the sweet and the savory.
Pemmican Patty Bisonberry Blends aren’t just about enjoying a delicious snack—they’re about connecting to a piece of history and culture that has shaped the way Indigenous peoples have lived for centuries. By offering a modern take on this age-old recipe, we’re helping to preserve these traditions while making them accessible to a wider audience. We invite you to try Pemmican Patty Bisonberry Blends and experience the fusion of history and flavor.