Are you looking for an easy and delicious way to cook deer tenderloin? This crock pot recipe delivers incredibly tender, flavorful meat with minimal effort. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Forget tough, chewy venison; this method ensures a melt-in-your-mouth experience every time! It's one of those healthy meals that tastes so good, you won't believe it's good for you. Let's dive into this amazing crock pot recipe!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs deer tenderloin, trimmed of silver skin
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
- 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions:
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Sear the Tenderloin (Optional but Recommended): For extra flavor, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the deer tenderloin on all sides for about 2-3 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step isn't essential, but it adds a beautiful crust and enhances the overall flavor.
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Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot: Place the chopped onion and minced garlic in the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the seared (or unseared) deer tenderloin on top.
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Create the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the beef broth, red wine (if using), balsamic vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and bay leaf.
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Slow Cook to Perfection: Pour the sauce over the deer tenderloin in the crock pot. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C).
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Rest and Shred (Optional): Once cooked, remove the tenderloin from the crock pot and let it rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing or shredding. The resting period allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the deer tenderloin with the delicious sauce from the crock pot. It's fantastic with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad. This makes for a truly delicious and satisfying quick dinner idea!
Cooking Tips for the Best Crock Pot Deer Tenderloin:
- Trim the Silver Skin: Removing the silver skin before cooking is crucial for tenderness. It's a tough membrane that can make the meat chewy.
- Don't Overcook: Overcooked venison can be dry. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches the safe internal temperature of 135°F (57°C) but no more.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your preference. Experiment with different combinations to find your perfect flavor profile.
- Make it a Meal Prep Star: This recipe is perfect for meal prepping! Cook a larger batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
Variations:
- Cranberry Sauce: Add 1/2 cup of cranberry sauce to the slow cooker for a sweet and tangy twist.
- Mushroom Medley: Incorporate a mix of sautéed mushrooms for an earthy flavor boost.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
- Carbohydrates: Low
This easy crock pot recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy delicious and healthy homemade cooking. The fall-apart tender venison is sure to become a new family favorite. Enjoy!