Mastering Venison: Tips for Perfectly Cooking This Lean Meat

The Appeal of Venison

Venison is a popular choice among health-conscious individuals and outdoor enthusiasts alike. It is significantly leaner than beef, with a finer texture and a similar protein count. According to the USDA, a 3-ounce serving of venison contains only 3 grams of fat and 135 calories, compared to 8 grams of fat and 215 calories in a similar serving of beef. This makes venison an excellent option for those looking to reduce their fat intake without sacrificing protein.

Hunting Season: A Time of Anticipation

For many in the Midwest, the fall season is synonymous with hunting. The period from October to late November is particularly special, as it marks the opening of deer season. Hunting white-tailed deer is a challenging and rewarding experience, providing hunters with a freezer full of nutritious meat. However, due to its low-fat content, venison can become tough and develop a gamey flavor if not cooked properly.

Processing Venison: A Strategic Approach

The key to enjoying venison starts with proper processing. When butchering a deer, it's essential to know how you plan to use the meat. Focus on the choice cuts and process the rest into ground meat. Here's a recommended breakdown:

• Backstraps and Tenderloins: Reserve these for special dishes.
• Roasts: Set aside three or four roasts.
• Ground Meat: Use the remaining meat for ground venison, which can be packed into 1 or 2-pound portions.

Ground venison is versatile and can be used in various dishes such as chili, spaghetti sauce, shepherd's pie, and goulash. If you plan to make burgers, consider adding 5% pork fat to the mix to enhance flavor and texture.

Enhancing Flavor with Marinades

Due to its low-fat content, venison benefits from marinades that add flavor and tenderness. Here's a tried-and-true marinade recipe for a 2-pound tenderloin:

Ingredients

• 1 cup of Red Wine (Port, Burgundy, or Marsala)
• 1 tablespoon of Organic Allspice
• 1 teaspoon of Fresh Ground Organic Pepper
• 1 teaspoon of Sea Salt
• 3 cloves of garlic
• 1 Bay Leaf
• 1 sprig of fresh Thyme or 1 teaspoon of dried Organic Thyme
• The peel of one fresh lemon

Instructions

1. Place all ingredients in a sealed plastic bag and refrigerate overnight.
2. Remove the tenderloin from the bag, retaining the marinade.
3. Bring the tenderloin to room temperature and rub liberally with salt, pepper, and crushed garlic.
4. Sear the tenderloin in 1 tablespoon of butter and olive oil until all sides are browned.
5. Place the pan in a 400°F oven for 10-15 minutes, until the internal temperature of the meat reaches 110°F.
6. Remove the tenderloin from the pan and set aside.
7. De-glaze the cooking pan with ¼ cup of sherry, add 1 cup of beef stock, and some minced shallots. Bring to a boil.
8. Strain the marinade and add it to the pan along with 2 tablespoons of currant jelly. Reduce the heat, stir, and allow the mixture to reduce.
9. Slice the tenderloin into 1½-inch slices and drizzle the sauce over each piece of meat. Serve with wild rice, sweet potatoes, or garlic mashed potatoes.

Interesting Venison Facts

• Nutritional Benefits: Venison is rich in vitamins and minerals, including iron, zinc, and B vitamins. It also has a higher omega-3 fatty acid content compared to grain-fed beef (source).
• Sustainability: Hunting deer helps manage wildlife populations and can reduce the negative impacts of overpopulation on ecosystems (source).
• Popularity: In the United States, approximately 6 million deer are harvested annually, providing a significant source of lean protein for many families (source.

By following these tips and recipes, you can transform venison into a delicious and healthy meal that will impress your family and friends. Happy cooking!