Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious dinner idea? Look no further! This deer cubed steak recipe is perfect for busy weeknights and offers a fantastic way to enjoy lean, flavorful venison. This easy recipe requires minimal ingredients and cooking time, making it ideal for both beginner and experienced cooks. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this homemade culinary delight!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb deer cubed steak (about 1-inch cubes)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sear the Steak: Season the deer cubed steak generously with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the deer cubes on all sides, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. This step helps to seal in the juices and develop a rich flavor. Set the seared venison aside.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sliced bell pepper, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until slightly tender-crisp.
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Simmer the Stew: Return the seared deer cubes to the skillet. Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained), beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 30 minutes, or until the venison is tender. The longer it simmers, the more tender and flavorful it will become.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the deer cubed steak is cooked through, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This delicious dish pairs well with mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite vegetables.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Searing the deer cubes in batches ensures they brown properly instead of steaming.
- Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of this dish is enhanced by using fresh herbs and good quality beef broth.
- Adjust cooking time: Depending on the size of your deer cubes, you might need to adjust the cooking time. Always ensure the venison is cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) for food safety.
- Make it a slow cooker meal: This recipe can easily be adapted for a slow cooker. Brown the meat as instructed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Variations:
- Add mushrooms: Include a cup of sliced mushrooms along with the onions and bell peppers for an earthy flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Use different vegetables: Feel free to substitute other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or potatoes.
- Creamy version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream at the end for a richer, creamier stew.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 15-20g
This deer cubed steak recipe is a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. It's a delicious and satisfying dish that showcases the wonderful flavor of venison. Enjoy!