Are you looking for exciting new ways to use that delicious deer sausage you made or purchased? Look no further! Deer sausage offers a leaner, healthier alternative to traditional pork or beef sausages, brimming with rich, savory flavor. This post is packed with easy recipes, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or impressive weekend feasts. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, these recipes are designed to be simple, delicious, and satisfying. Get ready to discover a world of flavor with these incredible deer sausage recipes!
Hearty Deer Sausage and White Bean Stew
This hearty stew is the perfect example of healthy meals made easy. It's packed with protein, fiber, and flavor, making it a satisfying and comforting dish for any night of the week.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb deer sausage, casings removed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Brown the deer sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until cooked through. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, cannellini beans, oregano, and basil. Bring to a simmer.
- Return the cooked deer sausage to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 20 minutes, or until the flavors have melded.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
Quick and Easy Deer Sausage Pasta
This quick dinner idea is perfect for busy weeknights. It's ready in under 30 minutes and is a delicious way to enjoy deer sausage.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb deer sausage, casings removed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 lb pasta (penne, rigatoni, or your favorite shape)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Cook pasta according to package directions.
- While pasta is cooking, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the deer sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, until cooked through.
- Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Drain the pasta and add it to the skillet with the sauce. Toss to coat.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Cooking Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to either recipe for a little heat.
- Veggie boost: Feel free to add other vegetables to the stew, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Different beans: Experiment with different types of beans in the stew, such as kidney beans or black beans.
- Creamy twist: Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the pasta for extra creaminess.
Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving – Hearty Stew):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: 25-30g Fat: 15-20g Carbohydrates: 25-30g
These recipes showcase the versatility of deer sausage, highlighting its delicious flavor and nutritional benefits. They are perfect examples of delicious dishes you can easily make at home. Enjoy experimenting with these recipes and creating your own variations! Remember to always prioritize food safety and handle your ingredients appropriately. Happy cooking!