Back Country Venison
A hearty crock-pot venison stew with dried apples and savory flavors, perfect for game meat lovers seeking a comforting, slow-cooked meal with a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the stew meat, dried apples, salt, pepper, brown sugar, and water into the crock-pot.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 to 9 hours until the meat is tender and the apples have almost cooked away, leaving a thick gravy.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider marinating the stew meat overnight in a simple marinade before cooking. If dried apples are unavailable, you can substitute with raisins or fresh apples, adjusting the cooking time as needed. Remember to season generously with salt and pepper to enhance the dish. Using a high-quality crock-pot will ensure even cooking and tenderness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty venison stew alongside a refreshing Crunch Slaw for a delightful contrast. It pairs well with crusty bread or over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes. For a complete meal, consider a side of roasted vegetables or a simple green salad to balance the richness of the stew.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. You can also microwave portions, covered, until heated through, taking care not to overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Back Country Venison contains roughly 1309 calories, with 0g protein, 338g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of calcium (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1549mg per serving (67% 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 a different type of meat for this recipe?
Yes, while venison gives it a unique flavor, you can substitute beef or lamb stew meat if preferred. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat's tenderness.
What if I want to make it gluten-free?
This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it contains no flour or gluten-containing ingredients. Just ensure that any broth or additional seasonings used are gluten-free as well.
Can I cook this on high instead of low?
Yes, you can cook it on high for about 4 to 5 hours. However, cooking on low allows the flavors to meld better and results in more tender meat.
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).