What tools are needed to cook venison steak on stove?

How to Cook Delicious Venison Steak on the Stove

If you’re looking for a tasty and healthy alternative to the usual beef or pork steak, venison is an excellent choice. This lean and flavorful meat is especially popular among hunters, but it’s becoming more widely available at grocery stores and online retailers. If you’re lucky enough to get your hands on some venison, you might be wondering how to cook it to perfection. Fortunately, cooking venison steak on the stove is not difficult, as long as you follow a few simple tips.

Step 1: Prepare the Meat

Before you start cooking, it’s important to prepare your venison steak properly. First, make sure the meat is at room temperature by taking it out of the fridge for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This will help it cook evenly. Then, use a paper towel to pat the steak dry, removing any moisture that could interfere with the searing process. If your steak has a thick layer of fat or silver skin, trim it off with a sharp knife to prevent chewiness.

Step 2: Season the Steak

Venison has a distinctive flavor that can be enhanced with the right seasoning. You can keep it simple with just salt and pepper, or try a more complex blend of spices and herbs. Some popular options include garlic, rosemary, thyme, and smoked paprika. Rub the seasoning into both sides of the steak, using your hands or a brush to coat every nook and cranny. Don’t be afraid to get creative!

Step 3: Sear the Steak

For the best texture and flavor, it’s important to sear your venison steak before cooking it through. This will create a crispy, caramelized crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy and tender. To do this, heat a heavy-bottomed skillet or cast-iron pan over high heat until it’s smoking hot. Add a small amount of oil or butter to the pan, then place the steak in the center. Don’t move it around or flip it for at least 2-3 minutes, allowing the surface to brown and form a seal. Then, use tongs to flip the steak and repeat on the other side.

Step 4: Cook the Steak

Once you’ve seared the steak, you can finish cooking it to your desired level of doneness. Venison is best served rare to medium-rare, as it tends to dry out quickly if overcooked. To achieve this, reduce the heat to medium and cook the steak for another 2-3 minutes on each side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 120-140°F. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature, inserting it into the thickest part of the steak. Remember that the steak will continue to cook slightly after you remove it from the stove, so factor that in when deciding when to take it off.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

After you’ve cooked your venison steak to perfection, it’s important to let it rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and ensures a more tender and juicy result. Transfer the steak to a cutting board or platter and cover it loosely with foil or a lid. Let it rest for at least 5 minutes, or up to 10 for thicker steaks. Then, slice it against the grain and serve with your favorite sides, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a salad. Enjoy!

If you follow these simple steps, you’re sure to impress your family and friends with a delicious and healthy venison steak. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner trying something new, this recipe is easy to master and can be adapted to your taste preferences. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and cooking techniques to create your own signature dish. Happy cooking!