Aunt Ruth'S Deer Chili
A hearty, rustic chili featuring tender ground deer meat and savory spices, perfect for outdoor gatherings or comforting family dinners with bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cover the deer meat with water, at least 1 inch above the meat.
- Cook slowly until tender, approximately 1 hour or more.
- When half done (after about 30 to 40 minutes), add remaining ingredients: suet, salt, chili powder, minced garlic, and chopped onion.
- Continue cooking until the meat is fully tender and flavors meld.
- Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more chili powder or salt if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of ground venison and beef. If you prefer a spicier chili, add cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños. To enhance the dish, serve it with V-8 Tomato Juice Cocktail for a refreshing contrast. Adjust the consistency by adding beef broth or water as needed during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the deer chili with cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, and chopped green onions for added flavor. This dish pairs beautifully with Savory Spareribs And Cabbage for a complete feast or can be enjoyed as a standalone dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the chili. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Ruth'S Deer Chili contains roughly 535 calories, with 12g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 27g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), iron (32% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2868mg per serving (125% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use other types of meat instead of deer?
Yes, you can substitute ground beef, turkey, or even a vegetarian alternative like lentils or a plant-based meat substitute. Adjust the cooking time as needed for different meats, ensuring they are cooked through and tender.
How can I make this chili less spicy?
To reduce the spiciness, use a milder chili powder and omit any additional spicy ingredients like cayenne pepper. You can also add a small amount of sugar or honey to balance the heat, making the chili more palatable for those sensitive to spice.
Can I freeze the deer chili?
Absolutely! Deer chili freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stove or in the microwave.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).