Healthy Ground Venison Recipes: If you’re looking for a hearty, nutritious meal that’s both flavorful and unique, venison stew is the perfect choice. Healthy Ground Venison Recipes, with its lean and tender profile, offers a healthy alternative to traditional red meats like beef. This article provides a comprehensive guide to making a delicious venison stew, along with tips, nutritional facts, and frequently asked questions to help you get it just right.
Why Choose Venison?
Venison isn’t just a tasty addition to your menu; it’s also a powerhouse of nutrients. Whether you’re trying to reduce your red meat intake or explore wild game, venison is a great option.
Health Benefits of Venison
- Low in Fat: Venison contains significantly less fat than beef or pork, making it a heart-healthier choice.
- High in Protein: It’s packed with high-quality protein, ideal for muscle repair and energy.
- Rich in Nutrients: Loaded with iron, zinc, and B vitamins, venison supports overall health.
- Sustainable and Eco-Friendly: Venison has a lower carbon footprint compared to farm-raised red meats.
Ground Venison Stew Recipe
This venison stew recipe combines tender ground venison with vegetables, herbs, and a splash of red wine to create a wholesome, warming dish perfect for cozy nights. Here’s everything you need to get started.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Ground venison | 1 pound |
| Carrots (chopped) | 5 medium |
| Celery (chopped) | 5 stalks |
| Yellow onion | 1 large |
| Garlic (minced) | 4 cloves |
| Tomato paste | 2 tablespoons |
| Fresh rosemary | 1 sprig, minced |
| Fresh thyme | 1 sprig |
| Bay leaves | 2 |
| Red wine | ¾ cup |
| Yukon gold potatoes | 2 medium, diced |
| Chicken or beef stock | 1 quart |
| Kosher salt | 1 tablespoon |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Step-By-Step Instructions: Healthy Ground Venison Recipes
Preparation
- Salt the Venison
- Generously salt the ground venison on both sides and let it rest for 15 minutes to 24 hours (refrigerated). Salting tenderizes the meat, ensuring a softer texture.
- Chop Vegetables
- Prep carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and potatoes. Uniform chopping ensures even cooking.
Cooking Directions
- Brown the Venison
- Warm olive oil in a sizable pot over medium heat. Add ground venison in chunks.
- Let it brown for 3-4 minutes per side without stirring for a good sear.
- Remove from pot and set aside.
- Cook the Vegetables
- Add carrots, celery, and onion to the same pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the mixture softens, approximately 4 to 5 minutes.
- Add garlic, tomato paste, rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
- Deglaze the Pot
- Pour in red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release the browned bits. These add incredible flavor to the stew.
- Combine and Simmer
- Add browned venison back to the pot along with potatoes, chicken or beef stock, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cook partially covered for about an hour, stirring occasionally.
- Final Touches
- Remove thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with crusty bread or rice.
Nutrition Facts from Healthy Ground Venison Recipes
| Nutrient | Amount Per Serving* |
| Calories | 280 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Fat | 8g |
| Saturated Fat | 2g |
| Cholesterol | 60mg |
| Carbohydrates | 15g |
| Fiber | 3g |
| Sodium | 800mg |
Tips for Cooking Venison Stew
- Salt Moderately: Use kosher salt (like Diamond Crystal) for better control. Adjust if using Morton’s, as it’s saltier.
- Flavor Boosters: Add a splash of Worcestershire sauce or balsamic vinegar for extra depth.
- Customize Vegetables: Swap potatoes for sweet potatoes or add mushrooms for variety.
- Storage Tips: Refrigerate leftovers for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Praise and Reviews for Healthy Ground Venison Recipes
This recipe has been a hit among readers for its rich flavor and straightforward preparation:
- “I’ve never cooked venison before, but this stew turned out amazing. Even my picky kids loved it!”
- “Perfect for a cold winter night. The red wine really adds a special touch.”
- “Substituted beef for venison, and it was still a hit at dinner!”
FAQs about Healthy Ground Venison Recipes
Can I use ground beef instead of venison?
Yes, lean ground beef (90% lean) works well as a substitute in this recipe.
What if I don’t have red wine?
You can replace red wine with white wine or even extra stock for a non-alcoholic version.
How do I avoid gamey flavors in venison?
Salting in advance and simmering with herbs and wine help mellow the gamey taste.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, brown the venison and veggies first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Conclusion of Healthy Ground Venison Recipes
This Healthy Ground Venison Recipes stew is a hearty, healthy recipe perfect for fall and winter. With lean venison, earthy vegetables, and flavorful seasonings, it’s a balanced meal you can feel good about serving. Whether you’re an experienced wild game enthusiast or a curious first-timer, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Serve it with crusty bread, a glass of wine, and enjoy the warmth of a truly comforting dish: Healthy Ground Venison Recipes!
