Are you looking for a quick dinner idea that's both healthy and incredibly flavorful? Look no further! This recipe showcases the amazing versatility of venison backstrap, transforming this lean protein into a delicious grilled masterpiece. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a special occasion, this recipe is surprisingly easy, even for beginner cooks. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this homemade cooking triumph!
Ingredients:
- 1 (1-1.5 lb) venison backstrap, trimmed of silver skin
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- Optional: 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (for a little heat)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Pat the venison backstrap dry with paper towels. This crucial step ensures a beautiful sear on the grill.
- In a small bowl, combine olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
Marinate & Grill:
- Generously rub the spice mixture all over the venison backstrap, ensuring it's evenly coated. Let it marinate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for deeper flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. For best results, clean the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Place the venison backstrap on the preheated grill. Grill for 4-6 minutes per side for medium-rare, or longer for your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. The internal temperature should reach 130-135°F for medium-rare.
Rest & Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the venison backstrap from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
- Slice the venison backstrap against the grain into medallions. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Venison:
- Don't overcook: Venison is best served medium-rare to medium. Overcooking will result in a dry and tough steak.
- Use a meat thermometer: This is the most reliable way to ensure the venison is cooked to your desired doneness.
- Let it rest: Resting the venison allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful steak.
- Adjust seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.
Variations:
- Herb-Crusted Venison: Add fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or sage to the spice rub for an extra layer of flavor.
- Garlic-Butter Venison: During the last few minutes of grilling, brush the venison with melted garlic butter for added richness.
- Venison with Balsamic Glaze: Drizzle a balsamic glaze over the sliced venison before serving for a sweet and tangy contrast.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 200-250
- Protein: Approximately 30-35g
- Fat: Approximately 5-10g
This delicious and easy venison backstrap recipe is perfect for anyone looking for healthy meals, quick dinner ideas, or simply a delicious dish to impress. Enjoy the satisfying flavors and the ease of preparation – it's a recipe you'll want to add to your best recipes collection!