Are you looking for a simple yet impressive way to prepare a delicious deer steak? Look no further! This slow cooker recipe delivers incredibly tender and flavorful results, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Forget tough, chewy venison; this method ensures a melt-in-your-mouth experience that will impress even the most discerning palates. It's one of the best recipes for utilizing your homegrown venison, transforming a simple cut of meat into a truly unforgettable dish. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs deer steak, cut into 1-inch thick pieces
- 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
- 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:
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Sear the Deer Steak: Season the deer steak generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak pieces for 2-3 minutes per side, until browned. This step is crucial for developing a rich flavor and a beautiful crust.
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Prepare the Slow Cooker: Transfer the seared deer steak to your slow cooker. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the slow cooker.
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Combine the Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together the beef broth, red wine (if using), soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary.
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Slow Cook to Perfection: Pour the sauce over the deer steak and onions in the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the deer steak is incredibly tender. The longer it cooks, the more tender it will become.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, remove the deer steak from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks if desired. Serve the deer steak with the delicious sauce over mashed potatoes, rice, or your favorite side dish.
Cooking Tips for the Best Deer Steak:
- Don't Overcook: Deer meat can become tough if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 135-140°F for medium-rare.
- Trim Excess Fat: Trimming excess fat before searing will help prevent the sauce from becoming too greasy.
- Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your preference. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, or experiment with different herbs and spices.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve with roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Variations:
- Mushroom Deer Stew: Add 1 pound of sliced mushrooms to the slow cooker along with the onions and garlic.
- Spicy Deer Steak: Add a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Deer Steak: Stir in 1/2 cup of heavy cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a richer, creamier sauce.
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 40-50g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
This slow cooker deer steak recipe is a fantastic example of how easy it is to create delicious and healthy meals using simple ingredients and minimal effort. This is a recipe that will quickly become a family favorite, perfect for those busy weeknights or special occasions. Enjoy!