Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and impressive dinner recipe? Look no further! This recipe for butterfly venison steak is perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and the results are incredibly flavorful and tender. This dish is a testament to how delicious and satisfying healthy meals can be. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this fantastic recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 (8-ounce) venison steaks, about 1-inch thick
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary (optional)
Instructions:
Preparing the Venison Steaks:
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Butterfly the steaks: Using a sharp knife, carefully slice each venison steak horizontally almost all the way through, creating a pocket. Be careful not to cut all the way through! Open the steak like a book. This technique ensures even cooking and a beautiful presentation.
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Season generously: In a small bowl, combine salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Generously season both sides of the butterflied steaks with this spice blend.
Cooking the Venison:
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Sear the steaks: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully place the seasoned venison steaks in the skillet. Sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until a nice brown crust forms. This step is key to developing delicious flavor.
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Reduce heat and add balsamic: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Pour balsamic vinegar into the skillet and let it simmer for a minute or two, allowing it to slightly reduce and create a delicious glaze.
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Finish cooking: Add butter and rosemary (if using) to the skillet. Tilt the pan and spoon the melted butter over the steaks for about 2-3 minutes, basting frequently until the internal temperature reaches 130-135°F for medium-rare or your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer for accurate results. Overcooking venison will make it tough, so be mindful of the temperature.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve immediately. The balsamic glaze adds a beautiful tang and richness that complements the venison perfectly. This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a simple side salad. It's a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Venison:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you're cooking more than two steaks, cook them in batches to ensure even browning and cooking.
- Let the steaks rest: Allow the cooked venison to rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile. A sprinkle of thyme or sage would also be delicious.
Variations:
- Mushroom & Garlic Venison: Add sliced mushrooms and extra garlic to the skillet during the last few minutes of cooking for an earthy, flavorful twist.
- Peppercorn Venison: Substitute cracked black peppercorns for some of the regular pepper for a more intense peppery flavor.
- Spicy Venison: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning blend for a touch of heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 (depending on the size of the steak and added ingredients)
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
This recipe is a perfect example of how simple homemade cooking can produce truly delicious and healthy dishes. Enjoy your easy, delicious, and impressive butterfly venison steaks!