Are you looking for a delicious and healthy dinner that's also quick and easy to make? Look no further! This venison stew recipe, crafted for your Instant Pot, delivers a rich, flavorful experience without hours of simmering. Perfect for busy weeknights or a comforting weekend meal, this recipe showcases the versatility of venison while minimizing cooking time. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb venison stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, 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:
Step 1: Sear the Venison: Set your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function. Add olive oil and brown the venison cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. This step adds depth of flavor to your stew. Remove the browned venison and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables: Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients: Return the browned venison to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using). Add thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Pressure Cook: Secure the Instant Pot lid and set the valve to "Sealing." Cook on high pressure for 35 minutes. Allow for a natural pressure release for 15 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure manually.
Step 5: Add Potatoes: Carefully open the lid and add the cubed potatoes. Stir gently to combine. Close the lid again, and set the valve to "Sealing." Cook on high pressure for an additional 10 minutes.
Step 6: Finish and Serve: Allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure manually. Stir in the frozen peas and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Venison Stew:
- Cut the venison evenly: Consistent sized cubes ensure even cooking.
- Don't overcrowd the pot: Browning the venison in batches prevents steaming instead of browning.
- Adjust seasonings to taste: Feel free to add more herbs, spices, or a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.
- Use a meat thermometer: Ensure the venison reaches an internal temperature of 160°F for food safety.
Delicious Variations:
- Add mushrooms: Include sliced mushrooms with the other vegetables for an earthy flavor boost.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Use different vegetables: Substitute other root vegetables like turnips or parsnips for the potatoes or carrots.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer, creamier stew.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy dose of protein and essential nutrients, making it a perfect addition to your healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. The exact nutritional information will vary based on the specific ingredients used. For a precise calculation, we recommend using a nutrition calculator.
This easy venison stew recipe is a fantastic example of how homemade cooking can be both delicious and efficient. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful dish, perfect for those cold evenings. This quick dinner idea is sure to become a family favorite!