Venison Chile Stew
Description
This hearty dish transforms lean venison into a tender, flavorful stew infused with the deep, smoky heat of dried chilies. The base is created by blending rehydrated pasilla, ancho, and arbol chilies with corn tortillas, yielding a thick, rustic consistency that coats the meat beautifully. Dark beer and beef stock add depth and richness, while cumin, cinnamon, and fresh cilantro provide aromatic warmth. It is a robust, satisfying meal perfect for cold evenings or gathering with friends.Directions
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In a medium saucepan, combine the pasilla, ancho, and arbol chilies with 1.5 cups of chicken broth.
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Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
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Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10 minutes, or until the chilies are soft, stirring occasionally.
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Remove from heat and let the chilies cool slightly.
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Transfer the chilies and their liquid to a blender. Add the quartered corn tortillas.
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Puree until completely smooth. If the mixture is too thick to blend, add the remaining chicken broth, 1 tablespoon at a time, as necessary. Set aside.
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In a large sauté pan, heat the corn oil over medium-high heat until it just begins to smoke.
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Add the venison cubes in a single layer and cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until browned.
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Using a slotted spoon, remove the browned venison from the pan and set aside.
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In the same hot oil, add the minced onion. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes, stirring often, until well browned.
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Add the minced garlic and cumin powder. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
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Pour in the chile-tortilla puree. Fry for 4 to 6 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent scorching, until the mixture is thick and dark.
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Return the venison to the pan. Add the dark beer and beef stock, stirring well to combine.
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Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 1 hour, or until the liquid has reduced by half and the meat is tender.
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Remove the pan from heat. Stir in the cinnamon stick and the bundle of fresh cilantro sprigs.
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Let the stew stand, without stirring, for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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Remove and discard the cinnamon stick and cilantro bundle.
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Stir in the lime juice.
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Season with salt and ground black pepper to taste. Serve warm.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 5 cups
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 1710.7kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 88.4g136%
- Saturated Fat 25.2g126%
- Cholesterol 484.6mg162%
- Sodium 2775.2mg116%
- Total Carbohydrate 45.4g16%
- Dietary Fiber 16.3g66%
- Sugars 1.6g
- Protein 166.3g333%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.