Wet & Dry

Fall means wild game—and this season, try some fresh, exotic takes on preparing your bounty. Here’s a Mexican dry rub that works perfectly with elk steak, and a Hawaiian huli-huli marinade for your next duck. With these recipes, you’ll never look at big game or waterfowl the same again.

Traditional Mexican Dry Rub
2 tbsp. smoked paprika
2 tbsp. brown sugar
2 tbsp. Kosher salt
1 tbsp. dark chili powder
1 tbsp. black pepper
1 tsp. Italian seasoning
1 tsp. cinnamon

Mix all ingredients thoroughly and rub into steaks.

Huli Huli Duck Marinade
2 1/4 cup soy sauce
1 1/2 cup fresh-squeezed lime juice
1 1/2 cup honey
1 cup brown sugar
1/2 cup olive oil
10 cloves of fresh garlic, crushed and minced
1/2 cup ketchup
2 1/2 tbsp. ground ginger
1 tbsp. adobo sauce
1 tbsp. sesame oil
1/4 tsp. black pepper
1 cup pineapple juice

Crush and mince the garlic, then soften over medium heat. Add all ingredients and then bring to a simmer over medium high heat. Cool rapidly and then add the duck. Marinate overnight.

Jeff Tomalavage is the assistant manager at Rio Sabinas in Belgrade.