Venison stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for chilly days or when you want a filling, nutritious meal. Pioneer Woman’s Venison Stew combines tender pieces of venison with vegetables and a rich, savory broth, creating a comforting and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.

What is Pioneer Woman Venison Stew

Pioneer Woman Venison Stew is a robust and delicious stew made with tender venison, hearty vegetables, and a blend of spices. It’s slowly cooked to perfection, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully, making it a perfect comfort food.

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Why You Should Try This Recipe

Unique Flavor: Venison offers a distinct, rich flavor.
Healthy Protein: Leaner than beef, packed with nutrients.
Seasonal Delight: Ideal for fall and winter meals.

Versatile Dish: Great for lunch or dinner.
Impress Guests: A gourmet dish for special occasions.

Ingredients Needed for Pioneer Woman Venison Stew

2 lbs of venison, cut into cubes

4 cups of beef broth
1 cup of red wine
1/4 cup of flour

1/4 cup of olive oil
2 large potatoes, diced
4 carrots, sliced

2 celery stalks, chopped
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced

1 cup of peas
2 bay leaves
1 tsp of dried thyme

Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions to Make Pioneer Woman Venison Stew

Heat Olive Oil: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.

Brown Venison: Add venison cubes and brown on all sides.
Remove Venison: Transfer browned venison to a plate.
Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add onion, garlic, celery, and carrots; cook until tender.

Add Flour: Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir well.
Pour in Wine: Gradually add red wine, stirring constantly.
Add Broth: Pour in beef broth and bring to a simmer.

Return Venison: Add venison back to the pot.
Add Potatoes: Stir in diced potatoes and bay leaves.
Season: Add thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.

Simmer: Reduce heat and let stew simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours.
Add Peas: Stir in peas and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

What Goes Well With Pioneer Woman Venison Stew

Crusty Bread: Excellent for soaking up the stew.
Mashed Potatoes: Adds extra comfort.
Steamed Green Beans: Lightens the meal.

Rice: Absorbs the delicious broth.
Simple Salad: Refreshing and balances the richness.

Essential Tips for Perfecting Pioneer Woman Venison Stew

Use Fresh Venison: Ensures the best flavor and tenderness.

Brown Meat Well: Adds depth to the stew’s flavor.
Deglaze Pot: Scrape up all the flavorful bits from the bottom.
Low and Slow: Simmer slowly for tender meat.

Check Seasoning: Adjust salt and pepper as needed.
Let It Rest: Allow stew to sit for a few minutes before serving.

Variations of Pioneer Woman Venison Stew

Add Mushrooms: For an earthy flavor.

Include Barley: Adds texture and heartiness.
Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or hot sauce.
Root Vegetables: Incorporate parsnips or turnips.

Tomato-Based: Add canned tomatoes for a different twist.

Storing Pioneer Woman Venison Stew: Best Practices

Cool Completely: Before refrigerating or freezing.
Airtight Containers: Preserve freshness.

Label and Date: For easy identification.
Refrigerate: Keeps for up to 4 days.
Freeze: Suitable for up to 3 months.

Reheating Pioneer Woman Venison Stew: Best Practices

Thaw First: If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Gentle Reheat: Warm slowly on the stovetop.
Microwave Option: Use a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally.

Add Liquid: If stew has thickened too much, add a splash of broth.
Stir Well: Ensures even reheating.

Nutrition Value (per serving):

Calories: 350

Protein: 30g
Fat: 15g
Carbohydrates: 20g

Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 800mg

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FAQs

How do you tenderize venison for stew?

To tenderize venison for stew, marinate the meat in a mixture of acidic ingredients like vinegar, wine, or lemon juice for at least 4-6 hours or overnight. This helps break down the tough fibers. Additionally, slow-cooking the venison at a low temperature for a longer period will also ensure the meat becomes tender and flavorful.

Can I use a slow cooker for Pioneer Woman Venison Stew?

Yes, you can use a slow cooker for Pioneer Woman Venison Stew. After browning the venison and sautéing the vegetables, transfer all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the venison is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

What can I substitute for red wine in this venison stew recipe?

If you prefer not to use red wine, you can substitute it with an equal amount of beef broth or a non-alcoholic red wine. Alternatively, a mixture of grape juice and a splash of vinegar can also mimic the acidity and flavor profile of red wine in the stew.

How do I thicken venison stew if it is too thin?

To thicken venison stew, you can create a slurry by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour with cold water, then slowly stir it into the simmering stew. Alternatively, you can let the stew simmer uncovered for a while longer to reduce the liquid, or add mashed potatoes or pureed vegetables to the stew for a thicker consistency.

Final Words

Pioneer Woman Venison Stew is a delightful, comforting dish that showcases the rich, unique flavor of venison. With this step-by-step guide, you can easily prepare a stew that’s not only delicious but also packed with nutrition. Enjoy this hearty meal with your loved ones and savor the warm, comforting flavors of homemade venison stew. Happy cooking!