How To Cook Cube Steak Deer Meat

How to Cook Cube Steak Deer Meat: A Delicious and Tender Guide

Deer meat, or venison, offers a lean and flavorful alternative to beef, but it can sometimes be tough. Cube steak, with its thin, tenderized cuts, is an excellent choice for maximizing venison's deliciousness. This guide will walk you through cooking cube steak deer meat, focusing on methods that ensure tenderness and enhance its natural taste.

Preparing Your Deer Meat Cube Steak

Before you even think about cooking, proper preparation is key to a tender and flavorful result.

1. Thaw Completely: Ensure your deer meat cube steaks are completely thawed before cooking. Partially frozen meat won't cook evenly, resulting in tough, unevenly cooked pieces.

2. Pat it Dry: Use paper towels to thoroughly pat the surface of each cube steak dry. This helps achieve a nice sear when pan-frying or grilling.

3. Season Generously: Don't be shy with the seasoning! Venison benefits from bold flavors. Experiment with various spice blends. Some popular choices include:

• Garlic Powder & Onion Powder: A classic combination that complements the venison's natural taste.
• Paprika & Cayenne Pepper: Add a touch of smoky heat.
• Montreal Steak Seasoning: A pre-made blend offering a savory, slightly spicy profile.
• Salt & Black Pepper: The simplest yet most effective way to enhance the natural flavor.

Remember to season both sides generously.

Cooking Methods for Delicious Cube Steak Deer Meat

Several cooking methods work well for deer meat cube steak. Choose the method that best suits your preferences and equipment.

1. Pan-Seared Cube Steak:

This method creates a flavorful crust while keeping the inside tender.

• Heat a skillet over medium-high heat with a tablespoon of oil (vegetable, canola, or even bacon grease works well).
• Sear the cube steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned.
• Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 135-140°F (57-60°C) for medium-rare.
• Rest for a few minutes before serving.

2. Grilled Cube Steak:

Grilling adds a smoky char and enhances the venison's flavor.

• Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
• Grill the cube steaks for 3-4 minutes per side, or until nicely browned and cooked to your desired internal temperature.
• Use a meat thermometer to ensure the steaks reach 135-140°F (57-60°C) for medium-rare.
• Rest for a few minutes before serving.

3. Slow Cooker Cube Steak:

For extra tender venison, try slow cooking.

• Sear the cube steaks briefly in a skillet before placing them in the slow cooker. This step adds depth of flavor.
• Add your favorite sauce or liquid to the slow cooker (e.g., beef broth, red wine, or a simple gravy).
• Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender.

Serving Suggestions

Your perfectly cooked deer meat cube steak is ready to be enjoyed! Consider these serving suggestions:

• Serve with mashed potatoes and gravy: A classic comfort food pairing.
• Pair with roasted vegetables: Roasted asparagus, Brussels sprouts, or carrots complement the venison well.
• Create a hearty stew: Cube steak is perfect for venison stews.
• Use in sandwiches or wraps: Thinly sliced cube steak makes a delicious addition to sandwiches or wraps.

By following these tips and techniques, you'll be able to cook delicious and tender cube steak deer meat every time. Remember to experiment with different seasonings and cooking methods to discover your personal favorite. Enjoy!