Venison Stew with Corn, Baby Kale, ROOT VEGETABLES and Hot Honey BBQ Sauce

Ingredients

• 2 lbs venison stew meat (cut into 1 ½-inch cubes)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 large onion, chopped

• 3 carrots, sliced

• 3 celery stalks, sliced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 4 cups beef broth

• 1 ½ cups potatoes, peeled and diced

• 1 cup frozen or fresh corn kernels

• 1 cup baby kale (loosely packed)

• ½ cup Double Barrel BBQ Hot Honey BBQ Sauce

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar (optional, for extra depth)

• 1 tablespoon cornstarch + 2 tablespoons cold water (for thickening, optional)

Instructions

1. Sear the Venison:

   • In a large Dutch oven or pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.

   • Season the venison cubes with salt and pepper. Add them to the pot in batches, searing until browned on all sides (about 3-4 minutes per batch). Remove and set aside.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

   • In the same pot, add the onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened.

   • Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Build the Flavor Base:

   • Stir in the tomato paste, smoked paprika, and thyme. Cook for 1-2 minutes to coat the vegetables.

4. Simmer the Stew:

   • Return the venison to the pot and pour in the broth. Stir to combine and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook on low heat for 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until the venison is tender.

5. Add Potatoes and Corn:

   • After the stew has simmered for about 90 minutes, add the diced potatoes and corn. Cook for another 20-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

6. Finish with Baby Kale, Balsamic Vinegar and Hot Honey BBQ Sauce:

   • Stir in the baby kale and let it wilt for 2-3 minutes. Add balsamic vinegar and Hot Honey BBQ Sauce..

7. Thicken (Optional):

   • If you prefer a thicker stew, mix the cornstarch with cold water until smooth and stir it into the stew. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes until thickened.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve warm with crusty bread or over creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. The Hot Honey BBQ Sauce adds a sweet heat that balances the rich flavors of the venison and vegetables perfectly!

Enjoy! weather or a comforting meal!