Medallions Of Venison With Sun Dried Cherry Sauce
Description
This sophisticated dish features tender venison medallions seared to perfection and served over a luxurious sun-dried cherry sauce. The sauce is built on a base of apple juice and venison stock, infused with aromatic juniper berries and fresh thyme for a complex, forest-like depth. Sun-dried cherries plump up during simmering, adding bursts of sweet-tart flavor that cut through the richness of the game meat. The result is a harmonious balance of earthy, savory, and sweet notes with a velvety texture. Perfect for special dinner parties or holiday gatherings, this recipe elevates wild game into a restaurant-quality centerpiece. It pairs beautifully with roasted root vegetables or creamy mashed potatoes, offering a satisfying and elegant meal that celebrates the flavors of the hunt.Ingredients
Directions
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Combine 1/2 cup apple juice, 1/2 cup venison or beef stock, 5 juniper berries (lightly crushed), 1 clove, and 6 peppercorns in a small saucepan.
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Bring the liquid mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes to infuse the spices.
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Add 1/3 cup sun-dried cherries and 1 small chopped shallot to the simmering liquid.
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Continue simmering for about 10 minutes, or until the sun-dried cherries are plump and tender.
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Remove the spice bag (if used) or strain the liquid through a fine-mesh sieve into a bowl, discarding the solids.
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Using an immersion blender or standard blender, puree the liquid and plumped cherries until smooth. Return the sauce to low heat to keep warm.
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Trim 8 pieces of venison loin (about 3 oz each) into medallions if not already cut, and pat them dry with paper towels.
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Rub the venison medallions with salt, pepper, and 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme.
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Heat a large skillet over high heat with a drizzle of oil. Add the venison medallions in a single layer.
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Sear the venison for 45 seconds to 1 minute per side, depending on thickness, until browned on the outside but still pink inside for medium doneness.
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Remove the venison from the skillet and let it rest on a warm plate for a few minutes.
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To serve, spoon a pool of the cherry sauce onto each plate.
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Place two venison medallions on top of the sauce on each plate.
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Garnish with additional fresh thyme sprigs and a few reserved sun-dried cherries if desired.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 385.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.9g2%
- Saturated Fat 0.1g1%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 6.2mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 100.0g34%
- Dietary Fiber 4.2g17%
- Sugars 92.5g
- Protein 0.9g2%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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