Are you looking for a hearty, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner that practically cooks itself? Then look no further! This venison stew, slow-cooked to perfection in your trusty crock pot, is the answer to your weeknight dinner woes. It's a delicious and easy recipe perfect for busy families or anyone who appreciates the magic of homemade cooking. This recipe offers a perfect balance of tender venison, earthy vegetables, and a rich, savory broth—a true testament to the best recipes available. Get ready for a comforting bowl of deliciousness!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs venison stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional, can substitute with more broth)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 lb potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup frozen peas
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get Started:
- Pat the venison cubes dry with paper towels. This helps achieve a nice sear.
- Season the venison generously with salt and pepper.
Sear the Venison (Optional but Recommended):
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Brown the venison cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. This step adds depth of flavor.
- Set the browned venison aside.
Crock Pot Magic:
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the crock pot.
- Cook on low for 30 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened slightly.
- Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another 2 minutes.
- Add the browned venison, beef broth, red wine (if using), thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf to the crock pot.
- Stir well to combine.
Slow Cooking Perfection:
- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the venison is incredibly tender.
- About 30 minutes before serving, add the cubed potatoes.
Finishing Touches:
- Stir in the frozen peas during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips for the Best Venison Stew:
- Choose the right cut: Venison stew meat is ideal for this recipe because it’s tougher and benefits from slow cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When searing the venison, work in batches to ensure proper browning.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to add more herbs or spices according to your preference. A dash of Worcestershire sauce can also add a nice depth of flavor.
- Thicken the stew (optional): If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the stew during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Mushrooms, turnips, parsnips, or butternut squash would be delicious additions.
- 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 crème fraîche before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific ingredients used, but a general estimate is:
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Approximately 35-40g
- Fat: Approximately 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 20-25g
This venison stew recipe is a fantastic example of healthy meals made easy. It's a delicious and satisfying dish that's perfect for a chilly evening. Enjoy!