Why You’ll Love This Venison Pie Recipe
If you’re looking for a hearty dish that warms the soul, you’ll love this Venison Pie recipe. It’s packed with rich flavors, combining tender venison with a medley of vegetables and herbs.
The savory filling, encased in a golden, creamy topping, creates a perfect balance of textures. Not only is it comforting, but it also makes for an impressive centerpiece at any gathering.
The aroma that fills your kitchen while it bakes is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a great way to bring something unique to your table, showcasing the wonderful taste of venison in a delightful pie.
Ingredients of Venison Pie
When it comes to making a delicious Venison Pie, having the right ingredients is key to creating that comforting, mouthwatering experience. This dish is a celebration of flavors, combining tender chunks of venison with hearty vegetables and a creamy potato topping.
If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and get cooking, let me break down what you’ll need to whip up this delightful meal.
Ingredients for Venison Pie:
- 1 1/2 lbs venison, cut into chunks
- Sea salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 4 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 leeks, white parts only, sliced thickly
- 5 ounces white pearl onions, peeled
- 8 ounces carrots, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, halved
- 1 rosemary sprig, leaves only
- 2/3 cup red wine
- 2 3/4 cups chicken stock
- 5 ounces new potatoes
- 1 lb sweet potato
- 2/3 lb waxy potato
- 4 teaspoons butter
- 1 1/2 ounces double Gloucester cheese, shredded
- 2 egg yolks
Now, you might be wondering about some of these ingredients. For instance, if you can’t find venison, no worries—other meats like beef or even lamb can make a good substitute, though it’ll alter the flavor a bit.
And if you’re not a fan of rosemary, thyme is a great alternative that adds a lovely aroma without overpowering the dish. Also, feel free to mix up the vegetables based on what you have at home.
Cooking should be fun, right? Just think of it as a delicious adventure in your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s get ready to make something amazing.
How to Make Venison Pie
Alright, let’s plunge into the delightful world of making Venison Pie. First, you’ll want to start by prepping that 1 1/2 lbs of venison. Cut it into chunks and season with a sprinkle of sea salt and a dash of pepper. Then, coat those meaty morsels in 3 tablespoons of all-purpose flour. This little step is key for getting that delicious, rich sauce later on—trust me, it makes a difference.
Now, grab your trusty ovenproof casserole and heat up 4 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. It’s time for some action. Brown the venison chunks in batches—about two minutes on each side should do the trick. Don’t overcrowd the pan; you want that beautiful golden color, not a steam bath. Once the meat is nicely browned, transfer it to a bowl.
In the same casserole, add in 2 sliced leeks, 5 ounces of peeled white pearl onions, and 8 ounces of bite-sized carrots. Stir them around for about 4 to 5 minutes until they start to color a bit. The aroma? Absolutely divine. Then toss in 8 ounces of halved cremini mushrooms and 1 rosemary sprig, cooking everything for just a minute more.
Next, pour in 2/3 cup of red wine—this is where the magic happens. Scrape the bottom of the pan with a wooden spoon to get all those tasty bits up, and let it bubble until it reduces. Pour in 2 3/4 cups of chicken stock and bring this delightful mixture to a gentle simmer. Return the venison along with any juices back to the pan, partially cover it with a lid, and let it braise gently for about 40 to 50 minutes. You might want to give it a stir every now and then to keep things cozy.
While that’s bubbling away, you can prep the potatoes. Slice 5 ounces of new potatoes into 1/2 inch thick circles and cook them in a little olive oil until they’re golden and crispy.
Finally, once your venison and potatoes are tender, let everything cool slightly before topping it with a creamy mash made from 1 lb of sweet potatoes and 2/3 lb of waxy potatoes, mixed with 4 teaspoons of butter and 1 1/2 ounces of shredded double Gloucester cheese.
Now, heat your oven to 425 degrees F and pour that heavenly venison mixture into a large pie dish. Spread that glorious mash on top, roughing it up a bit with a fork for that crispy finish. Bake for about 20 minutes until everything is golden and bubbling.
And there you have it—your own homemade Venison Pie, ready to impress your friends and family. Just remember, if the pie doesn’t turn out perfect, you can always say you were going for a rustic look. Happy cooking!
Venison Pie Substitutions & Variations
After whipping up that delicious Venison Pie, you might be wondering how to make it your own. I love experimenting with different meats like beef or lamb if venison isn’t available.
For a twist, try adding some diced apples or cranberries for a sweet contrast. You can switch up the vegetables, too—parsnips or turnips work beautifully!
If you’re looking for a lighter topping, consider a savory pastry crust instead of the mashed potatoes.
And don’t forget to play with herbs; thyme or sage can add a unique flavor profile.
Get creative and make it your signature dish!
What to Serve with Venison Pie
To elevate the enjoyment of your Venison Pie, consider pairing it with sides that complement its rich flavors.
I love serving it with a crisp, fresh salad—maybe a simple arugula mix with a tangy vinaigrette.
Roasted root vegetables, like carrots and parsnips, add a sweet contrast that enhances the pie’s savory depth.
For something heartier, creamy mashed potatoes work beautifully, soaking up any delicious gravy.
And don’t forget a glass of robust red wine; it really brings out the pie’s richness.
These combinations create a well-rounded meal that makes every bite memorable. Enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
Pairing your Venison Pie with the right sides enhances the overall dining experience, but there are also some tips that can take your dish to the next level.
First, don’t shy away from adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce to the filling for an extra flavor boost.
Also, using a mix of potatoes in your topping adds complexity. If you want a golden crust, brush the top with egg wash before baking.
Finally, let the pie rest for a few minutes after baking; this helps the filling set and makes serving easier.
Enjoy your delicious creation!