Are you looking for a delicious and effortless weeknight meal that's both healthy and impressive? Look no further! This back strap crock pot recipe delivers fall-apart tender, juicy meat with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend dinner, this easy recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Forget tough, dry meat; this method ensures a succulent back strap every time. It’s one of the best recipes for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs venison back strap, trimmed of silver skin
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- ½ cup red wine (optional, can substitute with extra broth)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Pat the venison back strap dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear.
- Season the back strap generously with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
Sear the Meat (Optional but Recommended):
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the back strap on all sides for about 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned. This step adds a depth of flavor. If you're short on time, you can skip this step.
Slow Cooking Magic:
- Place the chopped onion and minced garlic in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Place the seared (or unseared) back strap on top of the onions and garlic.
- Pour the beef broth and red wine (if using) over the meat.
- Add the Worcestershire sauce.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Rest and Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the back strap from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful meat.
- Slice the back strap against the grain and serve. The cooking liquid in the slow cooker can be thickened into a delicious gravy if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Ensure there's enough space around the back strap for even cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the best way to ensure the back strap is cooked to the perfect temperature.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Include other vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or mushrooms for a complete one-pot meal.
- Spicy kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Different wine: Experiment with other red wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving, based on 4 servings):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This back strap crock pot recipe is a perfect example of how easy it is to create delicious and healthy homemade cooking. It’s a quick dinner idea that’s perfect for busy weeknights, and it’s also a great option for entertaining guests. Enjoy this incredibly tender and flavorful dish!