What is Venison?
Venison refers to the meat from game animals, particularly deer. It is revered for its lean texture and distinct flavor, making it a popular choice among food enthusiasts. Cooking venison braised in wine adds depth to the meat, enhancing its natural taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 pounds of venison stew meat
- 1 cup red wine (preferably a bold red like Cabernet Sauvignon)
- 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 sprig of fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparing the Venison
1. Begin by patting the venison stew meat dry with paper towels. This step removes any excess moisture and promotes better browning during cooking.
2. Season the meat generously with salt and pepper. This adds flavor and enhances the taste of the venison when it braises in the wine.
The Braising Process
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the seasoned venison to the skillet and brown each side for about 3-4 minutes to seal in the juices. Remove the meat from the skillet and set it aside on a plate.
3. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are slightly softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well to coat. This will help thicken the braising liquid later on.
5. Add the tomato paste, stirring for another minute or so to incorporate it into the mixture.
6. Slowly pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. Allow the wine to simmer for a few minutes to reduce slightly.
7. Return the browned venison to the skillet, along with any juices that collected on the plate.
8. Pour in the beef or vegetable broth, ensuring the meat is mostly submerged. Add the bay leaf and thyme sprig for added flavor.
9. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Simmer gently for 2-3 hours or until the venison is tender and easily pulls apart.
Serving Suggestions
Once the venison is braised to perfection, there are several ways you can enjoy this delectable dish:
- Serve it with creamy mashed potatoes for a comforting meal.
- Pair it with roasted root vegetables for a hearty autumn feast.
- Plate it alongside buttered egg noodles for a classic European touch.
- Garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary for an added pop of flavor.
Regardless of how you choose to serve it, venison braised in wine will surely impress your guests with its rich taste and tender texture. Enjoy!