Why You’ll Love This Venison Stew Recipe
If you’re looking for a hearty meal that warms you from the inside out, this venison stew is a must-try. The rich flavors meld together perfectly, creating a comforting dish that’s just right for chilly nights.
I love how tender the venison becomes, soaking up all the delicious broth. Each bite is a delightful mix of hearty vegetables and savory meat, making it a fulfilling meal.
Plus, it’s easy to prepare in a slow cooker, allowing me to enjoy my day while it cooks. Trust me, this stew will quickly become a favorite in your home too!
Ingredients of Venison Stew
When it comes to cooking up a warm and satisfying meal, having the right ingredients is the first step. This venison stew is packed with hearty vegetables and rich flavors, making it a perfect dish for any chilly evening.
You’ll find that the combination of tender venison and fresh veggies creates a delightful medley that’s hard to resist. Plus, the ingredients are pretty straightforward, so you won’t have to hunt for anything too exotic.
Now, let’s gather everything you’ll need to whip up this warm bowl of comfort.
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious venison stew:
- 1 lb venison, cut into 1-inch chunks
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks
- 1 small onion, chopped into large pieces
- 1/2 lb fresh mushrooms, whole
- 1 cup carrots, cut into lengths of about 2 inches
- 2 (10 ounce) cans beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup flour
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Now, while gathering your ingredients, you might want to take into account a few things. For instance, if you can, try to source fresh venison. It really makes a difference in the flavor and tenderness of the stew.
And if you’re not a huge fan of mushrooms, you can totally swap them out for something else—maybe some green beans or peas. Just remember that cooking is all about personal preference.
How to Make Venison Stew
Making venison stew is like wrapping yourself in a warm, cozy blanket on a chilly day. It starts with 1 lb of venison, cut into those perfect 1-inch chunks—just big enough to be hearty, but small enough to soak up that delicious broth.
First, grab a medium frying pan and heat it up. Once it’s nice and hot, toss in the venison and 1 small onion, chopped into large pieces. You’re not looking to cook them through just yet; you just want to sear the outside of the meat. This step is essential because it locks in those rich flavors. I mean, who doesn’t love that sizzling sound? It’s music to a cook’s ears.
Now, let’s move on to the heart of the stew. In a slow cooker or crock pot, combine the seared venison and onion with the rest of your ingredients: 4 medium potatoes (peeled and cut into 1-inch chunks), 1/2 lb of fresh mushrooms (the whole ones, if you please), 1 cup of carrots (cut into 2-inch lengths), 2 cans of beef broth, and 1 cup of water.
Sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder and 1/8 teaspoon of oregano. Give it all a gentle stir, and then set your slow cooker to high for about 5 hours. I usually set a timer, but let’s be honest, I sometimes get distracted by my favorite show. It happens to the best of us.
Once your stew has been bubbling away and filling your kitchen with those mouth-watering aromas, it’s time for the final touch. After the 5 hours, add in 1/2 cup of flour—this is what’ll thicken your stew and make it all the more satisfying.
Season with salt and pepper to taste; don’t be shy, it’s how you bring out all those flavors. Now, lower the heat and let it cook for another 5 to 7 hours on low. The longer it simmers, the more tender the meat becomes. You can even leave it on low for several additional hours if you like your stew extra thick and your venison melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Venison Stew Substitutions & Variations
After savoring a warm bowl of venison stew, you might find yourself wanting to switch things up a bit.
I often experiment with different meats, like beef or lamb, if venison isn’t on hand. Adding root vegetables like parsnips or turnips gives it a unique twist. For a spicy kick, I toss in some diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.
You can also swap beef broth for chicken broth or even vegetable broth for a lighter flavor. Don’t forget to play around with herbs—rosemary or thyme can really enhance the dish.
Make it your own!
What to Serve with Venison Stew
While enjoying a hearty bowl of venison stew, I often think about what to pair with it to elevate the meal. A crusty loaf of bread is perfect for soaking up that rich broth, and I can’t resist a side of buttery mashed potatoes for added comfort.
A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette brings a revitalizing contrast, balancing the stew’s hearty flavors. If I’m in the mood for something warm, roasted vegetables add wonderful depth.
For a drink, a robust red wine complements the venison perfectly, enhancing the overall experience. Trust me, these pairings make all the difference!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your venison stew turns out perfectly, I recommend a few simple tips.
First, searing the venison and onions adds depth to the flavor, so don’t skip that step.
I also like to let the stew cook longer on low; it really helps the meat become tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
If you want a thicker consistency, mix the flour with a little water before adding it in.
Finally, feel free to experiment with herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.
Trust me, these small adjustments make a big difference in your stew’s overall taste!