Savory Slow-Cooked Deer Steak
If you’re looking for a hearty, savory dish that perfectly captures the essence of rustic cooking, look no further than this Savory Slow-Cooked Deer Steak. This recipe combines tender deer steak with aromatic herbs and earthy mushrooms for a comforting meal that’s sure to impress. Perfect for a weekend family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish pays homage to the great outdoors and the joys of cooking with venison.
Ingredients List for Deer Steak Delight
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:
For the Slow-Cooked Deer Steak:
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- 2 lbs deer steak (cut into 1-inch pieces)
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- 2 tablespoons olive oil
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- 1 medium onion (chopped)
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- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
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- 8 oz mushrooms (sliced; cremini or button mushrooms work well)
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- 1 cup beef broth (low sodium)
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- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
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- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
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- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
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- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
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- Salt and pepper (to taste)
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- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions for Slow-Cooked Deer Steak
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by prepping your ingredients to keep the cooking process smooth and efficient:
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- Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
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- Slice the mushrooms into thick pieces for added texture during cooking.
Step 2: Sear the Venison
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- Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
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- Sear the Deer Steak: Add the deer steak pieces, and season with salt and pepper. Sear on all sides until browned (about 3-4 minutes per side). This step enhances the flavor of the meat.
Step 3: Transfer to the Slow Cooker
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- Once browned, transfer the seared deer steak into the slow cooker.
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- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
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- Add the sliced mushrooms and sauté for another 3-4 minutes until they get a nice color.
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- Pour in the beef broth, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, scraping the bottom of the pan to deglaze.
Step 4: Combine and Slow Cook
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- Pour the sautéed mixture over the deer steak in the slow cooker.
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- Sprinkle the dried thyme and rosemary over the top, and give it a gentle stir to combine everything.
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- Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, or until the meat is tender and has absorbed all the rich flavors.
Step 5: Serve the Rustic Delight
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- Once cooked, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
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- Serve in shallow bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.
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- Pair with mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.
Tips for Perfecting Your Deer Steak
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- Marinating: For an even deeper flavor, consider marinating the deer steak in your favorite red wine, garlic, and herbs for a few hours or overnight before cooking.
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- Mushroom Variations: Experiment with different mushrooms like shiitake or portobello to add unique flavors.
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- Thicker Gravy: For a thicker sauce, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Recipe Notes
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- Alternative Proteins: This recipe works beautifully with beef or lamb if venison is not available. Just adjust the cooking time according to the meat type.
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- Herb Variations: Feel free to substitute herbs based on your preference; fresh herbs can also be used but should be added toward the end of cooking for maximum flavor.
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- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors deepen even more after a day!
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this Savory Slow-Cooked Deer Steak recipe is a sturdy yet sumptuous option that’s been crafted just for you. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and embark on a cozy cooking adventure that brings the rustic spirit right into your home. Enjoy!
