Question on curing salts

[jpollman]

Hello sportspeople.

I just made my first batch of smoked Salmon in my new electric smoker. It came out ok but a little overdone. It was a little hotter in there than I thought and when I opened it up after about 4 hours (which is about the minimum time I expected to do the batch) it was already WELL done. I'll check sooner next time.:)

I've been reading through the recipe book that came with the smoker and there are a lot of recipies that I want to try. But one thing that I noticed is that some recipies just call for "salt", others call for "Non-idodized salt", and others (like a salami recipe) calls for Morton Tender-Quick curing salt. I can understand having to use "curing salt" as opposed to standard table salt, but does it really matter in the other recipies if I use Iodized or Non-Iodized ? I'll look for some Non-Iodized but the only salt I've ever seen in the grocery store is Iodized. Maybe the NON is there but I've just never noticed. Also, is this "Tender-Quick" readily available ? I'd really like to try a batch of salami.

Thanks for any input.

[islaysteelies]

I am not sure if it matters or not...It's in the store you just never noticed it...

[jpollman]

I think you're probably right ISS.

The more I think about it, I think I have seen salt labeled "Nonidodized". I'll pick some up. I don't know how it could make a difference but it must since some recipies call for just "salt" and others specifically state "Nonidodized".

I just can't wait to try some salami. Actually, a friend just gave me a good amount of Venison burger. I'd bet that would make some GOOOOOD sausage ! MMMMMMM I can taste it now !:)

[ice fishin' nut]

JP,,,,, Non Iodised salt does not contain Iodine,,,,,, the iodine will prevent the pellicle from forming correctly,(that 1 hour drying time before you put it in the smoker)

Look at Meijers for the Tender Quick, it usually comes in 1lb bags and is blue in color....... the bags, not the salt!!! LOL!!

[jpollman]

Thanks guys.

FOUND IT ! :)

The non-iodized comes in a blue container just like always but it just says SALT on the lable. In small print below that is states that Iodine is NOT added.
I also found the Tender Quick. Boy they don't give that stuff away ! It's $3.69 for a 2 lb bag vs. $.55 for 26 oz. of just salt.
Oh well, it's going to be worth it !!

Thanks again guys

[Fuzzz]

when you find a salami recipe you like, try adding finely chopped habenero pepper to a stick. it can really kick up a salami recipe!! (i wouldn't put it in too heavy at first)(also, make sure you wash your hands well before you take a leak-i've learned by other's mistakes!!:eek: YOW!!) one other tip, try mixing in some ground pork with the venison. my dad used to make it pure venison salami, but found when he mixed in pork, it was a lot more moist and held together better- mostly because the venison has virtually no fat. i'm not an expert, but i hope this helps. i really like the flavor and zip the peppers add to the salami (and i don't really like "hot")