NY Farms! Suggests...
Go Gourmet for Valentine’s Day with Farm Raised Venison!
A special day deserves a special meal, so why not use venison? Only 1 in 1000 has enjoyed farm raised venison. Venison is a unique product. While cuts are similar to lamb, it is used more as a recipe alternative to beef. It is a very delicate meat, with little to no intra-muscular fat, and no strong “gamey” taste. Farm raised venison is lower in fat and cholesterol, even when compared to skinless chicken. It is a great source of iron and essential Omega-3 fatty acids. In addition, venison is easier to digest than other meats because of its exceptionally low fat levels. Venison is also high in protein, vitamins and trace elements. This is a perfect alternative for you red meat lovers trying to watch the fat and calories!
When in doubt, venison should be cooked low, slow and moist. Due to its low fat content it is very easy for venison to dry out so steaks and roasts should be removed from the heat when rare and allowed to rest. The meat will continue to cook during this rest period. Do not use a fork or knife to flip your meat, use tongs in order to prevent precious juices from escaping. If cutting a steak before cooking, cut against the grain and into thin slices to ensure a tender, moist steak. Adding a marinade or sauce can help. For more information, go to http://www.venison-meat.com/html/cooking.html.
Venison can be made into a number of delicious recipes. Steaks, chops, burgers and roasts are great ways to serve this lean meat and allow the cook to add special sauces or spices. Venison is an excellent alternative in soups, stews, casseroles and stir frys. Venison can be used in many ethnic dishes. Venison can be prepared simply or elegantly. Venison can be prepared in pate, sausage, mince and jerky forms. It can also be deliciously smoked. With a little creativity venison can be placed on the menu year round. For recipes such as melt-in-your-mouth steak, Deer Chili, Venison Goulash, and Pizza Casserole, check out http://www.venison-meat.com/html/recipes.html.
This list is compiled from data obtained from the Northeast Cervid (deer and elk) Marketing Cooperative and the North American Deer Farmer’s Association NY Branch, the PRIDE of NY, Eat Well, Farm to Table and Local Harvest.org.
NY Farms! is not endorsing any of the noted businesses.