how to make venison cube steak

3 min read 07-02-2025

Venison cube steak, cut from the shoulder or round, is a lean, flavorful cut that's perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. Its unique texture benefits from a tenderizing process before cooking, resulting in a juicy and satisfying dish. This guide will walk you through making perfectly tender and flavorful venison cube steak.

Preparing Your Venison Cube Steak: The Key to Tenderness

Before you even think about cooking, proper preparation is crucial for tender venison cube steak. Venison, being a leaner meat than beef, benefits greatly from a little extra help to achieve optimal tenderness.

1. Tenderizing the Meat:

Mechanical Tenderizing: Use a meat mallet to pound the steaks to about 1/4-inch thickness. This breaks down the muscle fibers, resulting in a more tender final product. Pound evenly to avoid tearing the meat.
Marinade Magic: Marinating the venison for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight, adds flavor and further tenderizes the meat. A simple marinade of olive oil, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and pepper is excellent. Feel free to experiment with your favorite flavors! [Link to a recipe for a great venison marinade]

Cooking Methods for Perfect Venison Cube Steak

There are several ways to cook venison cube steak, each resulting in a slightly different texture and flavor profile. Let's explore a few popular options:

1. Pan-Seared Venison Cube Steak: A Quick and Easy Method

This method delivers a delicious sear and a juicy interior.

Step 1: Heat your pan: Heat a tablespoon of oil (vegetable or canola works well) in a heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat.
Step 2: Sear the steak: Place the seasoned venison cube steaks in the hot skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes per side, until nicely browned.
Step 3: Reduce heat and cook through: Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pan, and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Step 4: Rest and serve: Remove the steaks from the pan and let them rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

2. Baked Venison Cube Steak: A Hands-Off Approach

Baking offers a less hands-on cooking method, ideal for busy weeknights.

Step 1: Prep the baking dish: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish.
Step 2: Season and arrange: Season the venison cube steaks generously with salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings. Arrange them in the baking dish.
Step 3: Bake: Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
Step 4: Rest and serve: Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

3. Slow Cooker Venison Cube Steak: Tender and Flavorful

The slow cooker yields exceptionally tender venison cube steak, ideal for fall-apart texture.

Step 1: Sear (optional): For added flavor, sear the steaks in a skillet before placing them in the slow cooker.
Step 2: Slow cook: Place the seasoned steaks in the slow cooker. Add your favorite marinade or broth. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meat is fork-tender.
Step 3: Shred (optional): Once cooked, you can easily shred the venison with two forks for a pulled venison effect.

Serving Suggestions for Your Venison Cube Steak

Venison cube steak pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Consider these options:

Mashed potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic comfort food pairing.
Roasted vegetables: Roasted root vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and parsnips add sweetness and color.
Green beans: Simple steamed or sautéed green beans provide a fresh counterpoint.
Gravy: A rich pan gravy made from the pan drippings elevates the dish.

FAQs About Venison Cube Steak

Q: Can I freeze venison cube steak?

A: Yes, you can freeze venison cube steak before or after cooking. Wrap it tightly in freezer-safe plastic wrap or foil to prevent freezer burn.

Q: How do I know when my venison cube steak is done?

A: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C). This guarantees safe and delicious results.

By following these simple steps and choosing your preferred cooking method, you'll enjoy perfectly tender and flavorful venison cube steak every time. Remember, experimenting with marinades and seasonings is encouraged to find your perfect recipe. Happy cooking!