Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that's also healthy and budget-friendly? Look no further than this hearty venison stew recipe! Venison, known for its lean protein and rich flavor, is the star of this dish. This easy recipe is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion gathering. It’s a great example of homemade cooking at its finest, transforming simple ingredients into a truly delicious and unforgettable meal.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs venison stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 lb potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Browning the Venison
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the venison cubes and brown them on all sides. This step is crucial for developing a rich flavor. Remove the browned venison from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Building the Flavor
Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This helps to deepen the flavors of your stew.
Step 4: Simmering the Stew
Return the browned venison to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1.5-2 hours, or until the venison is very tender. The longer it simmers, the more tender the meat will become.
Step 5: Adding Potatoes and Peas
Add the cubed potatoes to the stew and continue to simmer for another 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir in the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Step 6: Serving
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot. This hearty stew is perfect served with crusty bread for dipping.
Cooking Tips for the Best Venison Stew:
- Don't overcrowd the pot: When browning the venison, work in batches to ensure even browning.
- Use a good quality red wine: If using wine, choose a dry red wine that you enjoy drinking.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and herbs to your liking.
- Use a slow cooker: This recipe can also be easily adapted for a slow cooker. Brown the venison as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Delicious Variations:
- Add mushrooms: Sauté some sliced mushrooms with the onions, carrots, and celery for an earthy flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Use different vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like turnips, parsnips, or butternut squash.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This venison stew recipe is a perfect example of healthy meals that are also quick dinner ideas. The combination of lean protein and hearty vegetables makes it a satisfying and nutritious choice. Enjoy this delicious and easy-to-make recipe! It’s sure to become one of your best recipes.