Venison Stew with Mushrooms

Name: Venison Stew with Mushrooms
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs venison, cut into 1-inch cubes; 2 cups mushrooms, sliced; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 carrots, diced; 3 potatoes, diced; 4 cups beef broth; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh thyme for garnish

Highlighted under: Rustic Comfort Dishes

Savor the rich flavors of venison and earthy mushrooms in this hearty stew, perfect for a cozy dinner.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-03T21:22:27.702Z

This Venison Stew with Mushrooms is a comforting dish that brings together tender pieces of venison with a medley of mushrooms and vegetables, simmered to perfection. Ideal for cold nights, it's a meal that warms both the body and the soul.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, deep flavor with tender venison
Hearty and satisfying, perfect for chilly evenings
A great way to use seasonal mushrooms

      

The Perfect Winter Comfort Food

As the temperature drops and the nights grow longer, there's nothing quite like a steaming bowl of venison stew to warm your soul. This hearty dish combines tender venison with earthy mushrooms and a medley of fresh vegetables, making it the ideal comfort food for chilly evenings. The slow simmering process melds the flavors beautifully, resulting in a rich, satisfying stew that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Venison, known for its lean and flavorful profile, is a fantastic alternative to traditional beef in stews. Its unique taste pairs beautifully with the umami notes of mushrooms, creating a robust dish that’s both nutritious and delicious. This venison stew not only fills your stomach but also nourishes your body with wholesome ingredients that are perfect for the winter season.

Choosing the Right Mushrooms

Selecting the right mushrooms can elevate your venison stew from good to extraordinary. While button mushrooms are a classic choice, consider using a variety of mushrooms such as cremini or shiitake for a deeper flavor profile. These mushrooms not only add an earthy taste but also contribute a wonderful texture to the stew, making each bite more satisfying.

If you're feeling adventurous, try incorporating seasonal wild mushrooms when available. They can bring a unique flavor and visual appeal to your stew. Just remember to clean them thoroughly and chop them into bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly and meld well with the other ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

This venison stew pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side of buttery mashed potatoes. The bread is perfect for soaking up the rich broth, while mashed potatoes add an extra layer of comfort to your meal. For a lighter option, serve it alongside a fresh green salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette to balance the richness of the stew.

Don’t forget to garnish your stew with fresh thyme before serving. Not only does it add a pop of color, but the aromatic herb enhances the dish’s flavors, making every spoonful a delightful experience. Enjoy this hearty meal with a glass of red wine for the ultimate cozy dinner.

Ingredients

For the Stew

2 lbs venison, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 cups mushrooms, sliced
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 carrots, diced
3 potatoes, diced
4 cups beef broth
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh thyme for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready before starting the cooking process.

Instructions

Sear the Venison

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the venison with salt and pepper. Add the venison to the pot and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

Remove the venison and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the onions, garlic, carrots, and mushrooms. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onions are translucent and the mushrooms have released their moisture.

Combine and Simmer

Add the venison back to the pot along with the potatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Serve

Once the stew is thick and the venison is tender, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme.

Enjoy your hearty venison stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Leftover venison stew can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious upon reheating. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave it in individual portions, but be sure to cover it to retain moisture.

If you want to store your stew for a longer period, consider freezing it. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion. Venison stew can be frozen for up to three months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for a quick and easy meal.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to customize this venison stew according to your taste preferences. You can add other root vegetables like parsnips or turnips for added sweetness and texture. If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick. Alternatively, you can incorporate a splash of red wine for added depth and richness.

For a gluten-free version, ensure that your beef broth and Worcestershire sauce are gluten-free. You can also thicken the stew naturally with more potatoes or use a cornstarch slurry as a thickening agent. The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility – feel free to experiment and make it your own!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use beef instead of venison?

Yes, you can substitute beef for venison if preferred. Adjust cooking time as needed.

→ What kind of mushrooms work best?

Cremini and shiitake mushrooms add great flavor, but you can use any variety you like.

→ Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Sear the venison and vegetables first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.