Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving a hearty, flavorful meal that's also surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This venison cube steak crock pot recipe is your answer. It's a delicious, healthy, and incredibly satisfying dish perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend supper. Get ready to experience the magic of slow-cooked venison, bursting with rich flavors and unbelievably tender. This easy recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs venison cube steaks
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (for thickening the gravy, optional)
- 2 tbsp cold water (if using cornstarch)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sear the Venison (Optional but Recommended)
For extra flavor, start by searing the venison cube steaks. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steaks for about 1-2 minutes per side, until lightly browned. This step isn't strictly necessary, but it adds a wonderful depth of flavor to the final dish.
Step 2: Prepare the Crock Pot
Place the seared (or unseared) venison cube steaks in the bottom of your slow cooker.
Step 3: Add the Aromatics
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the slow cooker.
Step 4: Create the Flavorful Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, red wine (if using), Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Pour this mixture over the venison and onions in the slow cooker.
Step 5: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the venison is incredibly tender.
Step 6: Thicken the Gravy (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker gravy, in a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water until smooth. Remove about 1/2 cup of the cooking liquid from the slow cooker and whisk it into the cornstarch slurry. Pour the mixture back into the slow cooker and stir well. Cook for another 15-20 minutes on low, or until the gravy has thickened to your liking.
Tips for the Best Venison Cube Steaks:
- Don't overcook the venison! Overcooked venison can be tough. The slow cooker method ensures tender results, but it’s still important to monitor the cooking time.
- Use a good quality venison: The flavor of your dish will be significantly impacted by the quality of the meat.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.
- Serve with your favorite sides: Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad are all excellent accompaniments to this hearty dish.
Variations:
- Add mushrooms: Sautéed mushrooms would add a delicious earthy flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or cream cheese at the end of cooking for a richer gravy.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size. For a more precise calculation, use a nutrition calculator with the exact ingredients and quantities used. However, this dish is generally considered a good source of protein and iron.
This delicious and easy venison cube steak recipe is a fantastic addition to your collection of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Enjoy this homemade cooking experience! It's sure to become a family favorite!