Venison Stew with Mushrooms

Name: Venison Stew with Mushrooms
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs venison, cubed; 2 cups mushrooms, sliced; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups beef broth; 1 cup red wine; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 2 tsp thyme; 1 tsp rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil

Highlighted under: Home-Cooked Classics Recipes

This hearty Venison Stew with Mushrooms is perfect for cozy nights and is packed with flavor.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-03T20:46:28.852Z

This Venison Stew with Mushrooms is a rich and hearty dish that warms the soul. The tender venison combined with earthy mushrooms creates a delightful flavor profile perfect for any occasion.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich and savory depth from slow-cooked venison
Earthy flavor from fresh mushrooms
Perfect comfort food for chilly evenings

      

A Hearty Dish for Any Occasion

Venison stew is not just a meal; it's an experience. This dish embodies the warmth and comfort of a home-cooked dinner, making it perfect for family gatherings or intimate evenings. The tender chunks of venison paired with earthy mushrooms create a robust flavor profile that is both satisfying and inviting.

Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a cozy night in, this venison stew is the ideal choice. The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring each bite is rich and fulfilling. Plus, it’s an excellent way to introduce game meat into your diet, offering a unique twist on traditional beef stew.

The Nutritional Benefits of Venison

Venison is a lean source of protein, making it a healthier alternative to conventional meats. With lower fat content, it provides essential nutrients without excess calories. It's also rich in iron and B vitamins, which are crucial for energy production and overall health.

Incorporating venison into your meals not only offers a distinct flavor but also supports a balanced diet. The combination of venison and vegetables in this stew ensures you're getting a hearty dose of vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for your dinner table.

Perfect Pairings for Your Venison Stew

To enhance your experience, consider pairing this venison stew with a crusty loaf of bread for dipping. Freshly baked bread complements the stew's richness and allows you to savor every last drop of the flavorful broth. A side salad with a light vinaigrette can also balance the meal, providing a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew.

For beverages, a robust red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, would harmonize beautifully with the stew's flavors. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, try serving the stew with sparkling water infused with lemon or a herbal iced tea, which can cleanse the palate and refresh your senses.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 lbs venison, cubed
2 cups mushrooms, sliced
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
1 cup red wine
2 tbsp tomato paste
2 tsp thyme
1 tsp rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Cooking Steps

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Brown the Venison

Add the cubed venison to the pot and cook until browned on all sides, about 10 minutes.

Add Remaining Ingredients

Stir in the mushrooms, beef broth, red wine, tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper.

Simmer the Stew

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the venison is tender.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Enjoy Your Meal!

Tips for Cooking Venison

When cooking with venison, it's essential to remember that it is leaner than beef, which means it can dry out if overcooked. To ensure optimal tenderness, aim for a slow and low cooking method. Marinating the meat beforehand can also help infuse it with flavor and keep it moist during the cooking process.

It's a good idea to let the venison rest after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more succulent bite. If you're unsure about doneness, use a meat thermometer; aim for an internal temperature of 130°F to 140°F for medium-rare.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover venison stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep, as the flavors deepen even further after a day in the fridge. For longer storage, you can freeze the stew for up to three months.

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the stew appears too thick after freezing, add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Give it a good stir and heat until warmed through for a quick and satisfying meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use beef instead of venison?

Yes, beef can be substituted, though the flavor will differ.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this stew?

Yes, this stew freezes well for up to 3 months.

→ What sides pair well with venison stew?

Mashed potatoes or crusty bread are excellent sides for this stew.