Why You’ll Love This Venison Stew With Dumplings Recipe
There’s something truly comforting about a hearty bowl of venison stew with dumplings. I can’t help but love how this dish warms me from the inside out, especially on chilly nights.
The rich, savory flavors meld together beautifully, creating a dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. Plus, the dumplings are light and fluffy, soaking up all that delicious broth.
I find it’s perfect for sharing with family and friends, sparking laughter and stories around the table. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll want it on repeat for cozy evenings and gatherings alike.
Ingredients of Venison Stew With Dumplings
When it comes to whipping up a delicious venison stew with dumplings, having the right ingredients is key. You want to create a dish that not only satisfies your hunger but also warms your soul. The combination of tender venison, hearty vegetables, and fluffy dumplings is like a cozy blanket on a cold day.
So, let’s gather our ingredients and prepare to embark on a cooking adventure that will make your kitchen smell divine.
Here’s what you’ll need for this mouthwatering venison stew with dumplings:
- 2-3 lbs of cubed venison
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons of butter
- A handful of flour (for coating the meat)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups of diced celery
- 1 1/2 cups of diced carrots
- 1 teaspoon of minced garlic
- 2 tablespoons of Season-All salt
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 (7 1/2 ounce) can of buttermilk biscuits
Now, let’s chat a bit about these ingredients. First off, if you’re new to cooking with venison, you’re in for a treat. It’s leaner than beef, and when cooked right, it can be incredibly tender and flavorful.
Don’t be shy with your seasoning; the venison can handle it. And those dumplings? They’re like little pillows of joy that soak up all the savory goodness of the stew.
You can also mix and match vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Think about adding potatoes or peas for a personal twist. Just remember, the more, the merrier when it comes to flavor.
Now, let’s get ready to make this hearty stew that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
How to Make Venison Stew With Dumplings
Alright, let’s plunge into making that mouthwatering venison stew with dumplings. First things first, grab that 2-3 pounds of cubed venison and toss it into a large bowl. Now, sprinkle in some salt and pepper to taste, and don’t be shy with it; this meat can really take a punch.
Next, add a handful of flour to coat the meat. This flour isn’t just for fun; it helps to create a nice browning when we cook it. Speaking of cooking, melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a large pot over medium heat, then add in 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. The combo of these two fats is like a cooking dream team.
Once that’s nice and melted, toss in your chopped medium onion and let it sauté until it’s translucent and aromatic. Now, it’s time for the star of the show: add your floured venison to the pot and brown it up. Don’t rush this part; let the meat get a good color on all sides.
Once that venison is beautifully browned, it’s showtime for the veggies. Go ahead and throw in 1 1/2 cups of diced celery and 1 1/2 cups of diced carrots, along with 1 teaspoon of minced garlic. Give everything a good stir, and then add in 2 tablespoons of Season-All salt and 1 bay leaf.
Now, this is where the magic happens. Pour in enough water to cover all the ingredients, and stir it all together. Cover your pot and let it simmer for about 2 hours. This is the perfect time to relax, maybe catch up on a show or read a book. Just remember to check in and give it a stir every now and then, because no one wants a stew that feels neglected.
After your timer goes off, and your kitchen smells like heaven, it’s time for the dumplings to join the party. Take that can of buttermilk biscuits and tear them into pieces. Seriously, don’t be too precise here; the more rustic, the better.
Drop those biscuit pieces right into the simmering stew—this is where the magic really happens. Cook uncovered over medium heat for 10 minutes, and then cover it and let it cook for another 10 minutes. You’ll end up with fluffy dumplings that soak up all the savory goodness of the stew. Just try not to drool in anticipation as you wait.
When the time’s up, serve it up in bowls, and enjoy the cozy warmth of your homemade venison stew with dumplings. It’s like a big hug in a bowl.
Venison Stew With Dumplings Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your venison stew and dumplings, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try.
For a different protein, consider using beef or lamb instead of venison. You can swap out the buttermilk biscuits for homemade dumplings or even gnocchi for a unique twist.
Experiment with veggies too; parsnips or sweet potatoes can add a lovely sweetness. If you’re feeling adventurous, add red wine to deepen the flavor.
Finally, season with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fresh touch. Your stew will be deliciously different each time!
What to Serve with Venison Stew With Dumplings
What pairs well with a hearty venison stew and dumplings? I love serving a crisp, fresh salad alongside it. A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors perfectly.
You can also add a side of roasted vegetables, like Brussels sprouts or carrots, to enhance the meal. For a comforting touch, I sometimes serve warm crusty bread or rolls to soak up the stew’s delicious broth.
If you’re in the mood for something a bit more indulgent, a glass of robust red wine can elevate the dining experience and balance the stew’s hearty nature.
Additional Tips & Notes
When enjoying venison stew with dumplings, a few additional tips can enhance your cooking experience.
First, marinating the venison overnight in red wine can tenderize the meat and add rich flavor. Don’t skip browning the meat; it adds depth to the stew.
If you prefer a thicker consistency, mix a bit of cornstarch with cold water before adding it in. For extra flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Finally, feel free to customize the vegetables based on what’s in season or your personal favorites.
Enjoy the process, and happy cooking!