venison cube steak recipes

January’s cold winds make a warm venison dish perfect for the season. Venison cube steak is tender and rich, a true delight. It celebrates nature’s bounty and the skill of wild game cooking.

This guide will show you many venison cube steak recipes. Each one highlights the meat’s unique qualities. You’ll find both classic dishes and new, exciting flavors. These recipes will take your taste buds on a wild adventure.

Understanding Venison Cube Steak

Venison cube steak comes from the deer’s shoulder or hindquarter. It offers a unique taste for those looking to try something different from beef. Its flavor is distinct, and it needs special preparation to be tender.

What Makes Cube Steak Special

The name “cube steak” comes from how it’s made. The meat is tenderized with a machine that makes shallow cuts. This makes the meat tender, perfect for quick cooking like pan-frying or grilling.

Choosing the Right Cut of Venison

For cube steak, pick cuts from the hindquarter or shoulder. These are tougher, making them great for tenderizing. Don’t use tender cuts, as they can get too tough.

Proper Storage and Preparation

For the best taste, store and prepare your venison cube steak right. Wrap it tightly in plastic or freezer paper and keep it at 0°F or below. Thaw it in the fridge, not at room temperature. Dry the meat with paper towels before cooking to get a good sear.

“Venison is a lean, flavorful meat that requires careful handling and preparation to bring out its full potential. Tenderized cube steak is an excellent way to enjoy the unique taste of wild game in a variety of dishes.”

Knowing how to handle venison cube steak makes your tenderized venison steaks delicious. It will make your wild venison meals even better.

Essential Tools and Equipment for Cooking Venison

Preparing delicious game meat entrees like venison cube steak requires the right tools. These essentials help tenderize the meat and ensure it’s cooked just right. They will boost your wild game cooking skills and make your dishes irresistible.

1. Cast-Iron Skillet: A cast-iron skillet cooks venison cube steak evenly. It gives the meat a beautiful crust.
2. Meat Mallet: A strong meat mallet is key for tenderizing venison cube steak. It breaks down tough tissues, making the meat tender and juicy.
3. Slow Cooker: If you like cooking without much effort, a slow cooker is perfect. It braises the venison cube steak, making it tender and flavorful.
4. Digital Thermometer: A digital thermometer is crucial. It ensures the venison cube steak is cooked to the right temperature. This is important for tenderness and juiciness.venison-cube-steak-recipes

Other must-haves include sharp knives for cutting and a clean cutting board. Also, tongs are great for handling the meat while it cooks. With these tools, you’ll be on your way to becoming a pro at game meat entrees and wild game cooking.

“The right tools can make all the difference in the kitchen, especially when it comes to preparing wild game like venison cube steak.”

The Art of Tenderizing Wild Game Meat

Preparing tender and flavorful venison cube steaks needs some skill. Luckily, there are ways to make even tough wild game taste great. Let’s dive into the art of tenderizing venison cube steaks and discover the secrets to delicious marinated venison recipes.

Mechanical Tenderizing Methods

One top way to tenderize venison cube steaks is mechanically. A strong meat mallet or needle tenderizer can break down muscle fibers. This makes the meat softer and better at soaking up flavors.

Chemical Tenderizing Techniques

Chemical tenderizing is also effective for venison cube steak tenderizing. Acidic marinades, like vinegar or citrus, break down meat proteins. This makes the meat tender and juicy. Enzymatic solutions, like papaya or pineapple, also tenderize the meat well.

Marination Tips and Timing

Getting marination right is crucial for marinated venison recipes. Mix oil, acid, and seasonings in your marinade. Let the venison soak for 2 to 8 hours in the fridge. But, don’t overdo it to avoid mushy meat.

Mastering tenderizing wild game meat will help you make amazing marinated venison recipes. Try different methods and find what works best for you.

Classic Venison Cube Steak Recipes

Venison cube steak is a versatile and flavorful cut of wild game. It’s great for many classic recipes. From crispy country-fried venison steak to tender venison steak with mushroom gravy, these dishes highlight its unique taste and tenderness.

The Tender Cube Steak and Gravy recipe is a hit, earning a 5-star rating from 8 reviews. It serves 4 and is packed with nutrition. Each serving has 660 calories, 42 grams of protein, and lots of vitamins and minerals.

Venison is lean and nutritious but high in saturated fats and cholesterol. This can raise heart disease risk if eaten too much. To balance it, add easy venison dinners to your meals, paired with fresh, plant-based sides.

Whether you like your venison cube steak breaded and fried or in a savory gravy, these classic recipes will satisfy your cravings. Try different cooking methods and flavors to find your favorite way to enjoy this versatile wild game cut.

Slow Cooker Venison Cube Steak with Gravy

Enjoy a cozy night in with this comforting slow-cooked venison cube steak dish. It’s perfect for a family meal. The recipe combines tender venison, savory soups, and a rich gravy for a satisfying meal.venison-cube-steak-recipes

Ingredient Selection

To make this delicious slow cooker venison cube steak with gravy, you’ll need:

• 6 venison cube steaks (about 1.5 pounds)
• 1 (10.75 oz) can cream of chicken soup
• 1 (10.5 oz) can French onion soup
• 1.5 cups beef broth or stock
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 2 teaspoons homemade herb and garlic seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
• 2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

To prepare this tasty venison cube steak recipes, follow these steps:

1. Place the venison cube steaks in a 6-quart slow cooker, arranging them in a single layer.
2. In a bowl, whisk together the cream of chicken soup, French onion soup, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, herb and garlic seasoning, and paprika.
3. Pour the soup mixture over the venison steaks, then top with the diced onion and sliced mushrooms.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, until the venison is tender.
5. In the last 30 minutes of cooking, make a cornstarch slurry by mixing the cornstarch and cold water. Stir the slurry into the slow cooker to thicken the gravy.venison cube steak recipes

Gravy Making Tips

For the perfect gravy, consider these tips:

• Use a combination of cream of chicken and French onion soups for a rich, flavorful base.
• Add Worcestershire sauce and homemade seasoning to enhance the savory notes.
• Thicken the gravy with a cornstarch slurry to achieve a velvety, lump-free consistency.
• Adjust the cooking time and temperature to ensure the venison is fork-tender and the gravy is well-developed.

Serve this slow cooker venison cube steak with gravy over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or your favorite side dishes. Enjoy the tender venison and flavorful gravy in this easy-to-prepare recipe.

Pan-Fried Venison Cube Steaks in Cast Iron

Take your dinner to the next level with pan-fried tenderized venison steaks in a cast iron skillet. Cube steak, from the top round or sirloin, has a rich flavor and great texture. It’s perfect when tenderized and cooked right.

Begin by seasoning your venison cube steaks with salt, pepper, and onion powder. Coat each steak lightly with flour for even coverage. Heat your cast iron pan with plenty of oil until it’s hot. Then, fry the steaks for 2-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown.

To finish, make a rich gravy in the pan. Mix water and beef bouillon, then add flour to thicken. Cover the pan and bake at 375°F for 1.5-2 hours. This will make the venison cube steaks tender and almost falling apart.

Enjoy these easy venison dinners hot, topped with fresh herbs or chopped onions. The crispy crust and juicy inside will impress you. Serve with creamy mashed potatoes or buttery egg noodles for a complete meal.

“Cube steak is a versatile and budget-friendly cut that can really shine when cooked with care. This pan-fried method results in a perfectly tender and flavorful dish that’s sure to become a family favorite.”

Marinades and Seasoning Blends for Wild Game

Preparing cube steak marinades and wild venison meals is all about the right seasonings. The right mix can transform your venison cube steaks. Here are some tips and recipes to help you.venison cube steak recipes

Basic Marinade Recipes

A good marinade has oil, acid, and spices. For 1-2 lbs of venison cube steaks, use this mix:

• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 Tbsp. red wine vinegar
• ½ lemon, juiced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp. Italian seasoning
• ¾ tsp. salt
• ½ tsp. black pepper

This marinade has 144 calories, 1g sugar, and 441mg sodium per 2 Tbsp. The vinegar, lemon, garlic, and Italian seasoning tenderize the meat. They also add bold, savory flavors.

Herb and Spice Combinations

Try different herb and spice blends for extra flavor. Here are some favorites:

1. Rosemary and Thyme: These earthy herbs match venison’s rich taste.
2. Paprika, Garlic Powder, and Black Pepper: This mix adds warmth and smokiness.
3. Cumin, Chili Powder, and Oregano: For a Southwest twist on your wild venison meals.

Marinating longer makes the meat tender and flavorful. Aim for at least 1 hour. Or, marinate overnight in the fridge for the best results.venison cube steak recipes

Perfect Side Dishes for Venison Cube Steaks

Choosing the right side dishes for game meat entrees like venison cube steaks is a fun task. Classic choices like mashed potatoes, wild rice, and egg noodles are comforting. For a lighter option, try steamed or roasted wild venison meals like broccoli or squash.

A crusty wheat or rye bread is also great, as it absorbs all the tasty juices. The goal is to pick sides that match the dish’s flavor and add nutritional value.

• Mashed potatoes
• Wild rice
• Egg noodles
• Steamed or roasted vegetables (broccoli, squash)
• Hearty wheat or rye bread

Pairing your venison cube steaks with the right sides makes for a complete meal. Try out different combinations to find the best match for your game meat entrees.

Conclusion

Venison cube steak recipes are a tasty choice for those who love wild game. This tough cut can become tender and delicious with the right steps. Try different recipes and cooking methods to find your favorite.

Choose from slow-cooked venison with gravy or pan-seared in a cast-iron skillet. Venison is lean, with less fat and calories but more protein. It’s great for those watching their diet. Use tenderizing methods and creative seasonings to enhance its flavor.

Keep exploring wild game cooking with help from The Spruce Eats and Serious Eats. Learning to cook venison cube steak will impress your loved ones. You’ll enjoy meals that are both tasty and healthy, celebrating nature’s gifts.

FAQ

What makes venison cube steak a unique and versatile cut of meat?

Venison cube steak comes from the shoulder or hindquarter. It’s tough but tenderized, making it tasty and affordable. It’s great for many dishes.

How should venison cube steak be stored and prepared before cooking?

Wrap it tightly and freeze at 0°F or below. Thaw in the fridge and pat dry before cooking.

What are the best tools and equipment for cooking venison cube steak?

Use a cast-iron skillet for even heat. A meat mallet tenderizes it. A slow cooker is good for braising. A digital thermometer checks doneness. Sharp knives and cutting boards are essential for prep.

How can venison cube steak be tenderized before cooking?

Use a meat mallet or needle tenderizer for mechanical tenderizing. Chemical methods include acidic or enzymatic marinades. Marinate correctly to avoid over-tenderizing.

What are some classic and delicious recipes for venison cube steak?

Try country-fried venison steak, venison steak sandwiches, or venison steak with mushroom gravy. These recipes often involve breading and frying, then serving with a rich sauce.

How can venison cube steak be prepared in a slow cooker?

Cook it in a slow cooker with cream of chicken soup, French onion soup, and au jus gravy mix. Use a cornstarch slurry to thicken the gravy.

What seasoning blends and marinades work best with venison cube steak?

Use basic marinades with oil, vinegar or citrus, and garlic and herbs. For seasoning, try rosemary and thyme or a mix of paprika, garlic powder, and black pepper.

What side dishes complement venison cube steak the best?

Serve with mashed potatoes, wild rice, or egg noodles for a traditional taste. For a healthier option, try steamed or roasted vegetables. A hearty bread like wheat or rye also pairs well.venison cube steak recipes