Venison Cube Steaks: A Hunter’s Feast

By Posted on

Venison, a lean and flavorful meat, offers a unique culinary experience. This recipe takes inspiration from various culinary traditions, combining bold flavors and simple techniques to create a truly unforgettable dish.

Ingredients:

1.5 pounds venison cubed steak

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup crimini mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 cup red wine
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch
  • 2 tablespoons cold water

    • Vension cube steak makes a hearty meal with harvested game
    Vension cube steak makes a hearty meal with harvested game

    Image Source: carolinasportsman.com

    Preparation:

    1. Prep the Venison: Pat the venison cubed steak dry with paper towels. Season both sides with salt and pepper.
    2. Sear the Steak: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the venison cubes and sear until browned on all sides. Remove from the pan and set aside.
    3. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic. Sauté until softened and fragrant.
    4. Add the Mushrooms: Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and begin to brown.
    5. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the beef broth, red wine, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Scrape the bottom of the pan to release any browned bits.
    6. Return the Venison: Add the seared venison cubes back to the pan, ensuring they are fully submerged in the sauce.
    7. Simmer and Thicken: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1-2 hours, or until the venison is tender.
    8. Create the Slurry: In a small bowl, whisk together the cornstarch and cold water to form a slurry.
    9. Thicken the Sauce: Gradually whisk the slurry into the simmering sauce, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens.
    10. Serve: Serve the venison cubes with the rich, flavorful sauce over mashed potatoes, pasta, or rice.

    Total Time: Approximately 2.5 hours

    Serving Ideas:

    Elegant Presentation: Serve the venison on a bed of creamy mashed potatoes, drizzled with the rich sauce. Garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme.

  • Rustic Comfort Food: Pair the venison with buttery mashed potatoes and a side of roasted root vegetables.
  • Asian Fusion: Serve the venison over a bed of rice or noodles, topped with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and fresh cilantro.

    • This recipe is a harmonious blend of Western and Asian culinary influences. The rich, savory sauce is reminiscent of classic French cooking, while the bold flavors of soy sauce and red pepper flakes add a touch of Asian inspiration. The tender venison, cooked to perfection, is the star of the dish, elevated by the complex and comforting sauce.