Are you looking for a hearty, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This venison shank recipe, slow-cooked to perfection, is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Forget complicated techniques and long cooking times; this recipe utilizes the magic of your slow cooker to deliver tender, melt-in-your-mouth venison shanks with minimal effort. It's the perfect example of delicious dishes made easy, ideal for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend meal. This is one of those best recipes that even beginner cooks can master!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs venison shanks, bone-in
- 1 large onion, roughly chopped
- 2 carrots, roughly chopped
- 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sear the Venison Shanks (Optional but Recommended)
For a deeper, richer flavor, begin by searing the venison shanks. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the venison shanks generously with salt and pepper. Sear them on all sides until nicely browned, about 2-3 minutes per side. This step isn’t essential, but it adds a significant depth of flavor.
Step 2: Slow Cooker Assembly
Place the seared (or unseared) venison shanks in the bottom of your slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery around the shanks. In a bowl, combine the minced garlic, red wine, beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Pour this mixture over the venison and vegetables in the slow cooker.
Step 3: Slow Cooking
Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-5 hours, or until the venison is incredibly tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. The longer it cooks, the more tender it will become.
Step 4: Shred and Serve
Once the venison is cooked, carefully remove the shanks from the slow cooker and let them rest for about 10 minutes. Using two forks, shred the meat from the bone. Skim off any excess fat from the cooking liquid. Return the shredded venison to the slow cooker and stir it into the sauce. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Tips for the Best Venison Shank Recipe:
- Bone-in is best: Bone-in venison shanks provide more flavor and moisture during the slow cooking process.
- Don't overcrowd the slow cooker: Ensure there's enough space for the liquid to circulate around the shanks.
- Adjust cooking time: Cooking time may vary depending on the size and cut of your venison shanks. Check for tenderness using a fork.
- Make it a complete meal: Serve the venison shanks over mashed potatoes, creamy polenta, or egg noodles. The cooking liquid makes a fantastic gravy.
Variations:
- Add mushrooms: Incorporate sliced mushrooms during step 2 for an earthy flavor.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like juniper berries or sage.
- Make it a stew: Add potatoes and other root vegetables for a hearty stew.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients and portion sizes. For a more accurate nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator with your exact ingredients. However, generally, this recipe provides a good source of protein and iron, while being relatively low in carbohydrates.
This slow cooker venison shank recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals and easy recipes combined. It’s a satisfying and flavorful dish that's perfect for a quick dinner idea or a special occasion. Enjoy!