Are you looking for a hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly easy weeknight dinner? Look no further! This deer shank crockpot recipe delivers fall-off-the-bone tender meat with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe is a testament to the magic of slow cooking. It transforms a humble deer shank into a delicious, healthy, and satisfying dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food with this easy recipe!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs bone-in deer shanks
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get started:
- Pat the deer shanks dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Sear the shanks (optional but recommended):
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the deer shanks on all sides until browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step adds incredible depth of flavor. Don't overcrowd the pan; work in batches if necessary.
Slow cook to perfection:
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Transfer the seared shanks to your slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the slow cooker.
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In the same skillet you used to sear the shanks, stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook for about a minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
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Pour the beef broth, red wine (if using), thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf into the skillet. Scrape the bottom of the pan to loosen any browned bits – those are flavor gold!
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Pour the mixture over the shanks and vegetables in the slow cooker.
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Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, or until the meat is incredibly tender and easily pulls away from the bone.
Serve and enjoy:
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Once cooked, remove the shanks from the slow cooker and let them rest for 10 minutes before shredding the meat.
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Skim off any excess fat from the cooking liquid. You can thicken the sauce by simmering it on the stovetop for a few minutes, or use a cornstarch slurry if you prefer a thicker consistency.
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Serve the shredded deer shank meat over mashed potatoes, rice, or polenta. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips for the Best Deer Shank Crockpot Recipe:
- Bone-in is best: Bone-in shanks provide more flavor and moisture.
- Don't skip searing: Searing the shanks adds a beautiful crust and deepens the flavor of the finished dish.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to adjust the herbs and spices to your liking. Consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Make it a meal: Serve with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Variations:
- Spicy Deer Shank: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the slow cooker.
- Herb-infused: Experiment with different herbs like sage, oregano, or marjoram.
- Mushroom Medley: Add a cup of sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker along with the vegetables.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 10-15g
This delicious deer shank crockpot recipe is a perfect example of healthy meals and easy recipes. It’s a quick dinner idea that's sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy the homemade cooking experience and the best recipes this fall!