Corned Venison

Introduction

There’s something special about preparing Corned Venison, a dish that embodies comfort and flavor. This delightful recipe transforms succulent venison into a tender, briny masterpiece that’s perfect for serving on special occasions or cozy family dinners. With just a bit of patience during the brining process, you can elevate this game meat into a dish that will impress your friends and family.

Ingredients

• 3-4 lbs venison brisket
• 4 cups water
• 1 cup kosher salt
• 1/2 cup brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons pink curing salt
• 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
• 1 tablespoon coriander seeds
• 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
• 5 cloves garlic, crushed
• 2 bay leaves
• 5 whole cloves
• 1 teaspoon allspice berries
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• Ice

Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 3-4 hours
Total Time: 5-7 days (including brining)
Yield: 4-6 servings

Directions and Instructions

1. In a large pot, combine water, kosher salt, brown sugar, and pink curing salt. Heat over medium until all salts and sugar dissolve.
2. Add peppercorns, coriander seeds, mustard seeds, garlic, bay leaves, cloves, allspice berries, and red pepper flakes to the mix. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
3. Once the brine is cooled, pour it over the venison brisket in a large container or resealable bag.
4. Place the container or sealed bag in the refrigerator and let it brine for 5-7 days, turning the meat every couple of days.
5. After brining, remove the brisket from the brine and rinse under cold water to remove excess salt.
6. Place the rinsed brisket in a pot with fresh water and bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
7. Cook for 3-4 hours or until the meat is fork-tender, topping with ice occasionally if needed.
8. Once done, remove from heat and let rest before slicing.

Notes or Tips

• Ensure the brine is adequately cooled before adding the venison to preserve its quality.
• Feel free to adjust the spices in the brine to suit your taste preferences.
• Using a vacuum-sealed bag can help ensure even brining and flavor absorption.

Cooking Techniques

To achieve the perfect corned venison, it’s essential to master the brining technique. Brining allows the meat to absorb flavors while remaining juicy and tender. Patience is key; letting your venison soak up the spices over several days will yield an unforgettable flavor profile that your loved ones will crave.

FAQ

• Can I use a different cut of venison for this recipe? Yes, other cuts can work, but brisket provides the best results.
• What if I don’t have pink curing salt? It is recommended for color and preservation, but you can omit it, though the flavor may be different.
• Can I freeze the corned venison after cooking? Yes, it freezes well, making it easy to save for future meals.

Conclusion

Corned Venison is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings warmth and enjoyment to any gathering. Whether you’re serving it for a holiday feast or an intimate family dinner, the time spent brining and cooking will be well worth the anticipation. Dive into this recipe, savor every bite, and enjoy the wonderful experience of homemade corned venison.