What You’ll Need:
- 1 pound venison meat, cut into small pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1 cup red wine
- 2 cups crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound pasta of your choice
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Step 1: Preparing the Venison
Before you start cooking, it’s essential to properly prepare the venison meat. Start by trimming any excess fat or sinew from the meat, as this can affect the texture of the final dish. Once trimmed, cut the venison into small, bite-sized pieces. This will ensure even cooking and allow the flavors to penetrate the meat more effectively.
Step 2: Searing the Venison
In a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the venison pieces and sear them until browned on all sides. This step not only enhances the flavor of the meat but also helps seal in the juices, resulting in tender, succulent meat.
Step 3: Building the Flavor Base
Reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onion, minced garlic, carrot, and celery to the skillet. Sauté them until they become soft and translucent. These aromatic vegetables will create a delicious foundation for your ragu sauce.
Step 4: Deglazing the Pan
Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the skillet to release any browned bits. This process, known as deglazing, adds depth and complexity to the sauce by incorporating the flavor of the meat stuck to the pan.
Step 5: Simmering the Ragu
Add the crushed tomatoes, beef or vegetable broth, tomato paste, dried oregano, and dried basil to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let the ragu cook slowly for at least 2 hours. This allows the flavors to meld together and the venison to become incredibly tender.
Step 6: Serving the Venison Ragu
While the ragu is simmering, cook your favorite pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain the pasta and toss it with a ladleful of the ragu sauce. This ensures that every strand of pasta is coated in the delicious flavors of the ragu. Serve the pasta topped with additional ragu sauce and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
Now that you know how to make Venison Ragu, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and get cooking. This Italian recipe is a beloved dish that showcases the diverse flavors of Italy. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying it for a cozy night in, Venison Ragu is sure to satisfy even the most discerning taste buds. Buon appetito!