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.