Are you looking for a simple yet impressive dinner recipe that's both healthy and satisfying? Look no further! This crock pot venison roast recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend meal. Tender, flavorful venison, slow-cooked to perfection, will become a family favorite. It's a fantastic example of how easy homemade cooking can be, resulting in a delicious dish the whole family will love. This recipe is perfect for anyone searching for easy recipes, healthy meals, or quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 3-4 lb venison roast (rump, shoulder, or sirloin work well)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Pat the venison roast dry with paper towels. This helps to achieve a nice sear. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Sear the Roast (Optional but Recommended):
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the venison roast on all sides until browned. This step isn't essential but adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
Slow Cooking Time:
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Place the chopped onion, carrots, and celery in the bottom of your slow cooker.
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Place the seared (or unseared) venison roast on top of the vegetables.
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In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, red wine (if using), minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary. Pour this mixture over the roast.
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Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the venison is fork-tender. Cooking time will depend on the size and cut of your roast.
Serving Suggestions:
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Once the venison is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before carving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful roast.
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Skim off any excess fat from the cooking liquid. You can thicken the remaining liquid with a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) for a delicious gravy.
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Carve the venison roast against the grain and serve it with the delicious gravy, alongside your favorite sides like mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad. Garnish with fresh parsley for an extra touch of freshness.
Tips and Variations:
- For extra flavor: Add a bay leaf to the slow cooker during cooking. Remove before serving.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cooking liquid for a touch of heat.
- Different Herbs: Experiment with other herbs such as juniper berries or sage.
- Make it a complete meal: Add potatoes and other root vegetables directly to the slow cooker with the onions, carrots, and celery for a one-pot meal.
- Leftovers: Store leftover venison roast and gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It's also great for sandwiches or salads!
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the size of the roast and the specific ingredients used. However, venison is generally a lean protein source, providing a good amount of iron and other essential nutrients. This recipe offers a delicious and healthy alternative to other, potentially less healthy, dinner options.
This crock pot venison roast recipe is a perfect example of healthy meals made easy. Enjoy!