Mary Berry’s Game Casserole is a hearty and rustic dish that celebrates the rich flavors of game meat. This slow-cooked casserole combines tender cuts of game, aromatic vegetables, and a rich, savory sauce, making it a perfect dish for cooler weather or special gatherings. Serve it with mashed potatoes or crusty bread for a comforting and satisfying meal.
What is Mary Berry Game Casserole?
This casserole is a traditional British dish featuring a mix of game meats such as venison, pheasant, or rabbit, cooked slowly with onions, carrots, and a red wine-based sauce. It’s a flavorful and nourishing dish that brings out the best in these unique meats.
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Why You Should Try This Recipe
- Rich and Hearty: Perfect for a warming and satisfying meal.
- Showcases Game Meat: A great way to enjoy unique flavors.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: Tastes even better when prepared in advance.
- Easy to Customize: Add your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasoning.
- Ideal for Gatherings: Impress guests with this classic dish.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Game Casserole
For the Casserole
- Mixed Game Meat (500g, diced): Such as venison, pheasant, or rabbit.
- Plain Flour (2 tbsp): For coating the meat.
- Vegetable Oil (2 tbsp): For browning the meat.
- Onions (2, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and depth.
- Carrots (2, sliced): Provides texture and color.
- Celery (1 stalk, sliced): Adds flavor and balance.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Enhances the flavor.
- Red Wine (200ml): Adds richness to the sauce.
- Beef or Game Stock (300ml): Forms the base of the sauce.
- Tomato Paste (1 tbsp): Adds a concentrated tomato flavor.
- Bay Leaf (1): For an aromatic touch.
- Fresh Thyme (2-3 sprigs): Adds an earthy flavor.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped Parsley: For a fresh finish.
- Crusty Bread: For serving.
Equipment Needed
- Large skillet
- Oven-safe casserole dish or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
Instructions to Make Mary Berry Game Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 160°C (140°C fan) or 320°F.
Step 2: Prepare and brown the meat
Toss the diced game meat in flour, shaking off any excess. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meat on all sides, working in batches if necessary. Remove the meat from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the vegetables
In the same skillet, add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 4: Build the casserole
Stir in the tomato paste, red wine, and stock, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Add the bay leaf, thyme, and browned meat. Season with salt and black pepper.
Step 5: Slow-cook the casserole
Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe casserole dish or Dutch oven. Cover with a lid and bake in the preheated oven for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the flavors are well developed.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and discard the bay leaf and thyme sprigs. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley, alongside mashed potatoes or crusty bread.
What Goes Well With Mary Berry Game Casserole
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and perfect for soaking up the sauce.
- Roasted Vegetables: Adds extra texture and flavor.
- Buttered Green Beans: A simple and fresh side dish.
- Crisp Green Salad: Balances the richness of the casserole.
- Crusty Bread: Ideal for dipping into the sauce.
Expert Tips for Making the Best Mary Berry Game Casserole
- Choose Quality Game Meat: Fresh, high-quality game meat enhances the dish.
- Don’t Skip Browning: Browning the meat adds depth and flavor.
- Cook Low and Slow: Slow cooking ensures tender meat and a rich sauce.
- Customize Vegetables: Add parsnips, mushrooms, or turnips for variation.
- Deglaze Thoroughly: Scrape the pan well to incorporate all the flavors.
Easy Variations of Mary Berry Game Casserole
- Herbaceous Version: Add rosemary or sage for an extra aromatic flavor.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of chili flakes for heat.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace meat with mushrooms and lentils.
- Cheesy Top: Sprinkle grated cheese on top during the last 15 minutes of baking.
- Redcurrant Jelly Addition: Stir in a spoonful for a touch of sweetness.
Best Practices to Store Mary Berry Game Casserole
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until heated through.
Nutrition Value (per serving):
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fat: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
FAQs
What type of game meat works best for a casserole?
Venison, pheasant, rabbit, and partridge are excellent choices for a game casserole. You can also use a mix of these meats for added flavor and texture.
Can I make this casserole without wine?
Yes, you can substitute red wine with additional stock or use grape juice for a similar depth of flavor.
How do I thicken the sauce in a game casserole?
To thicken the sauce, you can simmer the casserole uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes, or mix a tablespoon of flour or cornstarch with water and stir it into the casserole.
Can I cook this casserole on the stovetop instead of the oven?
Yes, you can simmer the casserole on low heat on the stovetop for 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Final Words
Mary Berry’s Game Casserole is a comforting, rich dish that celebrates the flavors of game meat.
Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a taste of rustic British cuisine!
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Mary Berry Game Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 20
- Cook Time: 90
- Total Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Yield: 6
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow cooking
- Cuisine: British
Description
This casserole is a traditional British dish featuring a mix of game meats such as venison, pheasant, or rabbit, cooked slowly with onions, carrots, and a red wine-based sauce. It’s a flavorful and nourishing dish that brings out the best in these unique meats.
Ingredients
For the Casserole
- Mixed Game Meat (500g, diced): Such as venison, pheasant, or rabbit.
- Plain Flour (2 tbsp): For coating the meat.
- Vegetable Oil (2 tbsp): For browning the meat.
- Onions (2, finely chopped): Adds sweetness and depth.
- Carrots (2, sliced): Provides texture and color.
- Celery (1 stalk, sliced): Adds flavor and balance.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Enhances the flavor.
- Red Wine (200ml): Adds richness to the sauce.
- Beef or Game Stock (300ml): Forms the base of the sauce.
- Tomato Paste (1 tbsp): Adds a concentrated tomato flavor.
- Bay Leaf (1): For an aromatic touch.
- Fresh Thyme (2-3 sprigs): Adds an earthy flavor.
- Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
Optional Garnishes
- Chopped Parsley: For a fresh finish.
- Crusty Bread: For serving.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 160°C (140°C fan) or 320°F.
Step 2: Prepare and brown the meat
Toss the diced game meat in flour, shaking off any excess. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meat on all sides, working in batches if necessary. Remove the meat from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the vegetables
In the same skillet, add the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Step 4: Build the casserole
Stir in the tomato paste, red wine, and stock, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Add the bay leaf, thyme, and browned meat. Season with salt and black pepper.
Step 5: Slow-cook the casserole
Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe casserole dish or Dutch oven. Cover with a lid and bake in the preheated oven for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the flavors are well developed.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the casserole from the oven and discard the bay leaf and thyme sprigs. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley, alongside mashed potatoes or crusty bread.
