Hey there! First attempt making Willies Snack Sticks.
50/50 pork beef mix.
Willies Snack Stick Seasoning.
ECA.
Sure Gel.
Had to mix by hand unfortunately. I see a mixer in my near future. Looked like I achieved good protein extraction. Last minute added ECA. Stuffed into 19mm casings.
On to my Rec-Teq 700, which unfortunately can’t go lower than 180. Smoked with an extra smoke tube for about 2 hours, until IT about 140*, then into a turkey roaster for a bath at 170ish for about 40 minutes. Pulled when IT was about 165*
Taste and texture seem really good. Hoping a nice overnight air dry in fridge makes them even better.
I suppose the main question that I have is that given that incredibly short processing time because of my high smoker temp, would the ECA have enough time to activate and help the cure as I went pretty much straight from stuffing to smoking. I just see some people going hours and hours…just hoping I didn’t mess up!!! The texture and color would lead me to believe it worked just fine. Just curious what others think?
Thanks again, love the community!
Chris

