Are you looking for quick dinner ideas that are both healthy and flavorful? Then look no further! This recipe for venison cube steak is a fantastic option for busy weeknights. It's surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and delivers a delicious, satisfying meal the whole family will love. This recipe offers a fantastic way to enjoy lean protein and is perfect for those seeking healthy meal options. Get ready to experience the best recipes, elevated with simple homemade cooking techniques!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb venison cube steaks
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1/4 cup dry red wine (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Venison
Pat the venison cube steaks dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. This step is crucial for achieving a flavorful crust.
Step 2: Dredge in Flour
Place the flour in a shallow dish. Dredge each venison cube steak in the flour, ensuring it's fully coated. Shake off any excess flour.
Step 3: Sear the Steaks
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the venison steaks and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned. This creates a delicious sear and helps lock in the juices.
Step 4: Deglaze the Pan
Remove the steaks from the skillet and set aside. Add the butter to the skillet and let it melt. Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. This deglazing process adds incredible flavor to your sauce.
Step 5: Simmer the Sauce
Stir in the Worcestershire sauce and thyme. Bring the sauce to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
Step 6: Return the Steaks
Return the seared venison steaks to the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for another 5-7 minutes, or until the steaks are cooked to your desired doneness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of at least 145°F (63°C).
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve the delicious venison cube steaks immediately, drizzled with the flavorful sauce. This dish pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra tender steaks, you can pound them slightly before cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the skillet when searing the steaks. Work in batches if necessary to ensure proper browning.
- Adjust the cooking time depending on the thickness of your steaks and your preferred level of doneness.
- If you don't have red wine, you can substitute with an extra tablespoon of beef broth.
Variations:
- Add mushrooms or onions to the skillet along with the steaks for extra flavor and texture.
- Use different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile, such as rosemary, oregano, or paprika.
- For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream at the end of the cooking process.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
Enjoy this easy and delicious venison cube steak recipe! It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Let us know in the comments how you liked it!