Deerly Beloved: A Guide to Venison in Texas
So, you're craving Bambi burgers? Or perhaps you're tired of boring old beef and want to add a little wild to your plate? Well, buckle up, buckaroos, because we're about to dive into the wonderful world of deer meat, Texas-style.
Where the Heck Do I Find Deer Meat?
Let's get down to brass tacks. Where can you actually get your hands on some venison? Well, it's not exactly like buying a pack of hotdogs. You can't just waltz into your local Kroger and expect to find a venison section. But fear not, deer-lovers! There are a few options.
- Hunt it Yourself: If you're the outdoorsy type and enjoy a good challenge, hunting your own deer is an option. Just remember to check local hunting regulations and get the necessary permits. And for the love of all things holy, practice proper field dressing and handling.
- Know a Hunter: If you're not into the whole hunting thing but have a friend who is, you might be able to score some venison as a gift. Just make sure they know how to properly process it before you accept their "generous" offer.
- Local Butcher Shops: Some butcher shops, especially in rural areas, might carry venison. It's worth giving them a call and asking.
- Specialty Meat Stores: Larger cities might have specialty meat stores that carry exotic meats, including venison. These places can be a goldmine for adventurous eaters.
- Online Retailers: Believe it or not, you can actually buy venison online. Just make sure the retailer is reputable and the meat is properly handled.
What to Do With It
Alright, so you've managed to get your hands on some venison. Now what? Well, the possibilities are endless! Venison is leaner than beef, so it's a great option for those watching their waistline. It also has a slightly gamey flavor, which some people love and others find off-putting. If you're new to venison, it might be a good idea to start with milder cuts like ground venison or backstrap.
You can cook venison in pretty much the same way you would cook beef. It's great grilled, roasted, or made into ground meat for burgers or chili. Just remember to cook it to the proper temperature to avoid food poisoning.
How to Make the Most of Your Venison
- Don't Overcook It: Venison is lean, so it can dry out easily if overcooked. Aim for a medium-rare to medium doneness.
- Marinate It: Marinating can help tenderize the meat and add flavor. Try marinades with acidic ingredients like vinegar or citrus.
- Experiment with Spices: Venison pairs well with bold flavors. Don't be afraid to experiment with different herbs and spices.
How To's for Venison Newbies
- How to cook venison without drying it out? Cook it to an internal temperature of 135°F for medium-rare. Rest the meat for a few minutes before slicing.
- How to remove the gamey taste from venison? Marinating in acidic liquids like vinegar or lemon juice can help reduce the gamey flavor. Soaking the meat in buttermilk overnight is another popular method.
- How to grind venison? Use a meat grinder with a fine-grind plate. You can grind venison alone or mix it with beef for a milder flavor.
- How to store venison? Venison should be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 6 months.
- How to tell if venison is bad? Venison that is bad will have a sour or off-putting smell. The meat will also be discolored and slimy.