Why You’ll Love This Country Style Venison Stew Recipe
If you’re looking for a hearty and satisfying meal, you’ll love this Country Style Venison Stew recipe.
There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of stew, especially as the weather cools. The rich flavors meld together beautifully, creating a dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
I appreciate how the tender venison pairs wonderfully with the fresh vegetables, making each bite delightful. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to showcase venison, which is often overlooked.
With its robust taste and filling ingredients, this stew is bound to become a favorite in your home. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!
Ingredients of Country Style Venison Stew
When it comes to whipping up a cozy meal, nothing quite beats the ingredients that come together to form a delicious Country Style Venison Stew. This dish isn’t only hearty, but it also brings a unique taste to the table—venison, often overshadowed by beef or chicken, really shines here.
Imagine the comforting aroma wafting through your kitchen as you prepare this stew, drawing everyone in like a warm hug on a chilly day. So, let’s gather what we need to make this comforting delight.
Here’s a handy list of the ingredients you’ll need:
- 1/2 lb bacon or 1/2 lb salt pork
- 2 lbs venison steak
- 4 tablespoons flour
- 6 cups water or beef stock
- 1 large tomato, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 12 small white onions
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 1 cup fresh green peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
Now, let’s talk about these ingredients a little more. If you’re like me, you might be wondering where to find good-quality venison. If you don’t have a local butcher or a friend with a generous hunting habit, many specialty shops or farmers’ markets will have it.
Don’t be shy about asking around! And remember, while bacon adds a lovely smoky flavor, you can always swap it out for something leaner if you’re watching your fat intake. Plus, feel free to get creative with the veggies; if you have some leftover mushrooms or bell peppers hanging out in your fridge, toss them in.
The beauty of stew is that it’s super forgiving, so you can really customize it to suit your taste and pantry. Just imagine how good it’s going to taste when it’s all simmered together. Can’t wait for you to try it!
How to Make Country Style Venison Stew
Making a Country Style Venison Stew is a delightful adventure in the kitchen, and trust me, the end result is worth every minute spent stirring and simmering. Start by cutting 1/2 lb of bacon (or salt pork if you prefer) into small cubes. Heat up a large saucepan and sauté those little guys until they’re lightly browned and smelling irresistible. Once they’ve reached that perfect level of crispiness, set them aside.
Now, grab 2 lbs of venison steak and cut it into 1 1/2 to 2-inch pieces. In the same pan, using the delicious bacon drippings, brown the venison over high heat. The goal here is to get a nice sear—don’t be shy; let it sizzle! Stir in 4 tablespoons of flour and lower the heat, letting it brown for 2 to 3 minutes while you stir occasionally. You want the flour to soak up all that meaty goodness and create a flavorful base for your stew.
Now comes the fun part! Add 6 cups of water or beef stock to your browned venison mixture. Bring it to a simmer and let it bubble away for an hour or so until the venison is starting to get tender. Remember, patience is key here.
As it simmers, you can chop up your veggies: 1 large tomato, 2 medium carrots (sliced), 2 stalks of celery (sliced), and 2 medium potatoes (in 1-inch cubes), along with 12 small white onions. Toss all those vibrant ingredients into the pot, along with 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it continue to simmer until everything is thick and comforting.
And don’t forget about those 1 cup of fresh green peas! You’ll want to cook them separately and add them just before serving, giving that pop of color and freshness.
Once everything is beautifully combined and your kitchen smells like a cozy retreat, you’re ready to serve. Strain the peas and spoon them over or around the stew when you dish it out. This stew pairs perfectly with buttered corn muffins or a fresh salad, making it a complete meal that warms you right up.
Country Style Venison Stew Substitutions & Variations
While crafting a Country Style Venison Stew, you might find yourself wanting to switch things up or accommodate different tastes.
For a richer flavor, try substituting beef or chicken stock instead of water. If you’re short on time, cubed beef or lamb can replace the venison.
For veggies, feel free to toss in parsnips or mushrooms for added depth. Don’t have peas? Green beans or corn work just as well.
For a kick, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a sprinkle of smoked paprika. Tailoring this stew to your preferences makes it even more enjoyable!
What to Serve with Country Style Venison Stew
To enhance your dining experience, consider serving Country Style Venison Stew with a side of fluffy buttered corn muffins, which perfectly complements the rich flavors of the stew.
I also love adding a fresh garden salad, tossed with a light vinaigrette to balance the hearty stew.
If you’re in the mood for something a bit more indulgent, creamy mashed potatoes are a fantastic option, soaking up the savory broth beautifully.
A glass of robust red wine can elevate the meal further, highlighting the venison’s deep flavors.
Together, these sides create a delightful and satisfying dining experience.
Additional Tips & Notes
Although venison stew is already delicious on its own, there are a few tips that can enhance its flavor and texture.
First, marinating the venison overnight in red wine or vinegar can tenderize the meat and add depth. I also recommend using fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant touch.
If you want a thicker stew, consider adding a cornstarch slurry towards the end of cooking. For a twist, try adding mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor.
Ultimately, letting the stew rest after cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully. Enjoy your cooking adventure!