As the weather starts to cool down, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of chili to hit the spot. And when you’re using deer meat, also known as venison, you’re getting a leaner and more flavorful protein source than traditional beef. In this article, we’ll show you how to make delicious deer chili in a slow cooker, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends and family.
Why Use a Slow Cooker for Deer Chili?
There are several reasons why a slow cooker is the perfect vessel for making deer chili. First and foremost, slow cookers allow for low and slow cooking, which is ideal for tougher cuts of meat like venison. By cooking the meat over a long period of time, you’re breaking down the connective tissues and making it tender and easy to chew.
Another benefit of using a slow cooker is that it’s incredibly convenient. Simply add all of your ingredients to the pot, set it, and forget it. You can cook your chili while you’re at work, running errands, or taking care of other tasks around the house.
Choosing the Right Cut of Venison
When it comes to making deer chili, you’ll want to choose a cut of venison that’s suitable for slow cooking. Some good options include:
- Shoulder meat: This cut is perfect for slow cooking, as it’s tough and has a lot of connective tissue. It’s also relatively inexpensive and packed with flavor.
- Shanks: Venison shanks are another great option for slow cooking. They’re meaty and tender, and they have a lot of marrow, which adds flavor to the chili.
- Ground venison: If you prefer a more traditional chili texture, you can use ground venison. This is a great option if you’re short on time or prefer a milder flavor.
Ingredients and Equipment Needed
Here’s what you’ll need to make delicious deer chili in a slow cooker:
- 1 lb venison (shoulder meat, shanks, or ground)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 2 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 can kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: jalapenos, sour cream, shredded cheese, and diced onions for toppings
You’ll also need a slow cooker, preferably one with a capacity of at least 6 quarts.
Preparing the Venison
Before you start cooking, you’ll need to prepare the venison. If you’re using shoulder meat or shanks, you’ll need to trim any excess fat and cut the meat into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using ground venison, you can skip this step.
Trimming Excess Fat
To trim excess fat from the venison, simply use a sharp knife to cut away any visible fat. You can also use a pair of kitchen shears to trim any excess fat or connective tissue.
Cutting the Meat into Bite-Sized Pieces
Once you’ve trimmed the excess fat, cut the venison into bite-sized pieces. You want the pieces to be small enough to cook evenly, but not so small that they become mushy.
Cooking the Deer Chili
Now that you’ve prepared the venison, it’s time to start cooking. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making delicious deer chili in a slow cooker:
- Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced red bell pepper to the slow cooker. Cook on high for 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Add the chili powder, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper to the slow cooker. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Add the venison to the slow cooker, stirring to coat with the spice mixture.
- Add the diced tomatoes, kidney beans, black beans, and beef broth to the slow cooker. Stir to combine.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or until the venison is tender and the chili has thickened.
Optional: Adding Jalapenos for Extra Heat
If you like a little extra heat in your chili, you can add diced jalapenos to the pot. Simply add 1-2 diced jalapenos to the slow cooker along with the other ingredients.
Serving and Enjoying Your Deer Chili
Once the chili has finished cooking, it’s time to serve and enjoy. Here are a few ways you can serve your deer chili:
- Bowls: Serve the chili in bowls, topped with your choice of toppings. Some popular toppings include shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions, and crushed tortilla chips.
- Frito Pie: Serve the chili over Fritos, topped with shredded cheese, sour cream, and diced onions.
- Chili Mac: Serve the chili over macaroni, topped with shredded cheese and crushed tortilla chips.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw the chili overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat in the slow cooker or on the stovetop.
Conclusion
Making deer chili in a slow cooker is a great way to enjoy a delicious and hearty meal with minimal effort. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create a mouth-watering chili that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends and family. So why not give it a try? Your taste buds will thank you!
| Servings | Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6-8 | 30 minutes | 8-10 hours | 8 hours 30 minutes |
Note: The nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on the specific ingredients used.
What is the best type of deer meat to use for slow cooker deer chili?
The best type of deer meat to use for slow cooker deer chili is a matter of personal preference. However, it’s generally recommended to use a leaner cut of meat, such as venison steaks or roasts, as they will be tender and flavorful after slow cooking. You can also use ground venison if you prefer a more traditional chili texture.
If you’re using a leaner cut of meat, make sure to brown it before adding it to the slow cooker to bring out the rich flavors. You can also add some fat, such as bacon or oil, to enhance the flavor and tenderness of the meat. Regardless of the type of deer meat you choose, make sure to handle it safely and cook it to an internal temperature of at least 165°F to ensure food safety.
How do I prepare the deer meat for slow cooker deer chili?
To prepare the deer meat for slow cooker deer chili, start by trimming any excess fat or connective tissue from the meat. If using a leaner cut, cut it into bite-sized pieces or slice it thinly to ensure even cooking. If using ground venison, you can simply brown it in a pan before adding it to the slow cooker.
Once the meat is prepared, season it with your desired spices and herbs, such as salt, pepper, and garlic powder. You can also marinate the meat in your favorite seasonings or sauces before adding it to the slow cooker. Make sure to cook the meat to an internal temperature of at least 165°F to ensure food safety.
What are some essential ingredients for slow cooker deer chili?
Some essential ingredients for slow cooker deer chili include onions, garlic, bell peppers, tomatoes, beans, and chili powder. You can also add other ingredients, such as ground cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper, to enhance the flavor. Don’t forget to add some liquid, such as broth or water, to the slow cooker to ensure the chili cooks evenly and doesn’t dry out.
You can also customize the ingredients to your taste preferences. For example, you can add diced potatoes or carrots for added texture and flavor. You can also use different types of beans, such as kidney beans or black beans, to change up the flavor and texture.
How long does it take to cook slow cooker deer chili?
The cooking time for slow cooker deer chili will depend on the type of slow cooker you use and the temperature setting. Generally, it’s recommended to cook the chili on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours. You can also cook it on the “warm” setting if you prefer a lower temperature.
Make sure to check the chili periodically to ensure it’s cooking evenly and the meat is tender. You can also use a thermometer to check the internal temperature of the meat and ensure it reaches a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F.
Can I make slow cooker deer chili ahead of time?
Yes, you can make slow cooker deer chili ahead of time. In fact, it’s often recommended to cook the chili a day or two before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. Simply cook the chili as directed, then refrigerate or freeze it until you’re ready to serve.
When reheating the chili, make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of at least 165°F to ensure food safety. You can reheat it in the slow cooker or on the stovetop. You can also add some fresh ingredients, such as diced onions or sour cream, to enhance the flavor and texture.
How do I serve slow cooker deer chili?
Slow cooker deer chili can be served in a variety of ways. You can serve it hot, garnished with fresh herbs, such as parsley or cilantro, and accompanied by crusty bread or cornbread. You can also serve it over rice, noodles, or baked potatoes.
You can also customize the toppings to your taste preferences. For example, you can add shredded cheese, sour cream, or diced onions to enhance the flavor and texture. You can also serve it with a side of salad or roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Can I freeze slow cooker deer chili for later use?
Yes, you can freeze slow cooker deer chili for later use. In fact, it’s a great way to preserve the chili and enjoy it at a later time. Simply cook the chili as directed, then let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags.
When freezing the chili, make sure to label the containers or bags with the date and contents. You can store it in the freezer for up to 3-4 months. When reheating the chili, make sure to heat it to an internal temperature of at least 165°F to ensure food safety.