Are you looking for an easy and delicious way to cook deer steak? Look no further! This recipe delivers incredibly tender and flavorful deer steak with minimal effort, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Forget tough, chewy venison; this slow cooker method ensures a melt-in-your-mouth experience every time. This recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs venison steak (backstrap, tenderloin, or sirloin), cut into 1-inch thick slices
- 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 soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Sear the Deer Steak (Optional but Recommended)
For extra flavor and a beautiful crust, begin by searing the deer steaks. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the steaks generously with salt and pepper. Sear each steak for 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned. This step isn’t strictly necessary, but it adds depth of flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Crock Pot
Place the chopped onion and minced garlic in the bottom of your slow cooker.
Step 3: Add the Deer Steaks and Marinade
Place the seared deer steaks on top of the onions and garlic. In a bowl, whisk together the beef broth, red wine (if using), soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Pour this mixture over the steaks in the slow cooker.
Step 4: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the deer steak is incredibly tender and easily shreds with a fork. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of your steaks and your slow cooker.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, remove the deer steaks from the slow cooker and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve the delicious deer steak with the flavorful cooking liquid spooned over the top. This makes a fantastic homemade cooking experience!
Cooking Tips for the Best Deer Steak:
- Don't overcook: Venison can become tough if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 130-135°F for medium-rare.
- Trim excess fat: While a little fat adds flavor, trimming excess fat before cooking will help prevent the venison from becoming greasy.
- Marinate for extra flavor: If you have time, marinating the deer steaks for a few hours (or even overnight) before cooking will enhance the tenderness and flavor.
- Use a good quality slow cooker: A well-maintained slow cooker will ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
Variations:
- Add vegetables: Include other vegetables such as carrots, potatoes, or mushrooms for a complete meal. Add these to the slow cooker along with the onions and garlic.
- Spicy deer steak: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Different herbs and spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect flavor combination. Consider using garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or oregano.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific cuts of venison and ingredients used. For a more precise calculation, use a nutrition calculator with your specific ingredients and portion sizes. However, generally, this dish is a great source of protein and relatively low in fat, making it a delicious and healthy choice for your best recipes.
This easy crock pot deer steak recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, making it a simple addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and delicious dishes. Enjoy!