One of the best ways to introduce wild game to hesitant friends is to prepare something that’s instantly familiar and appealing. Appetizers are a good starting point for people new to wild game because there’s no commitment to eating an entire meal and most people associate appetizers with good tastes and enjoyable experiences. If I’m planning on hosting a group of friends for a casual backyard party, I’ll make sure to have a wild game appetizer or two for the neophytes to try.

For many reasons, one of my favorite wild game appetizers is venison wontons.  It’s a sure bet I that I’ll always have some kind of ground venison in the freezer and this recipe turns simple ground meat into a fun, tasty appetizer. Really, from moose to whitetail to wild pig, ground meat from any animal will work well here-even small game and birds. You can assemble the wontons ahead of time which saves time  later for drinks and hunting stories.

Once fried crispy and served with a variety of dipping sauces, venison wontons will make the pickiest, most gun-shy eaters instant wild game fans.

Dipping sauce is a must for these fried wontons and I like to offer a variety of choices. A few tablespoons of soy sauce mixed with a cup of spicy sriracha sauce pairs well with venison wontons. Try ponzu sauce citrus infused soy sauce mixed with a little wasabi and lime juice for a dipping sauce with bright flavors. And a sweet thai chili sauce is good for kids or people who don’t like things too hot or spicy.

Feel free to experiment a little by adding different ingredients to the meat filling. For example, I’ll add some extra heat with crushed red pepper. Venison wontons can also be steamed or cooked as dumplings in soup.