Winter Recipe Ideas For Family And Friends

venison

🥗Healthier: lean beef

💰Cheaper: pork

Lean beef offers a similar texture and flavor at a lower cost.

red wine

🥗Healthier: non-alcoholic red wine

💰Cheaper: grape juice

Grape juice maintains sweetness without alcohol.

dark chocolate

🥗Healthier: cocoa powder

💰Cheaper: milk chocolate

Cocoa powder reduces calories while providing chocolate flavor.

beef stock

🥗Healthier: vegetable stock

💰Cheaper: water with seasoning

Vegetable stock is lighter and can be made easily.

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.

Add chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Season the venison with salt and black pepper; add to the pot and brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes.

Sprinkle flour over the meat and stir to coat; cook for 2 minutes.

Pour in the red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.

Add beef stock, bay leaves, and thyme; bring to a simmer.

Cover and reduce heat; braise for 1.5-2 hours until venison is tender.

Stir in chopped mushrooms and simmer for an additional 15 minutes.

Remove bay leaves and thyme sprigs; stir in dark chocolate until melted.

Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve hot with mashed potatoes or crusty bread.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens