I think it’s safe to say that game meat preparation is intimidating for many. It’s a fine line between that deliciously tender yield and chewing on shoe leather. I’m here to guarantee your success and give you a super simple marinade that yields tender meat and loads of flavor every time! And none of that stereotypical “gaminess” that is the bane of many. Eww.
The key players are pretty straightforward: something acidic to tenderize and cut down on that gamey taste, flavor components to add richness and depth of flavor, seasoning to keep it interesting, and oil to bring it all together. A nice long marinating time is also important, so this can be done the night before, and definitely works best with a minimum of 4 hours to soak up all that flavor.
No more fearing game meat! With the right flavors and preparation, it’s an incredibly amazing way to change things up.
Easy Game Meat Marinade
(Gf, Df, soy-free, refined sugar-free)
Serves 2-4
Ingredients:
2 lb game meat, cut into equal sized pieces (I’ve used mule deer here)
2 Tbs dijon mustard
1 Tbs apple cider vinegar OR the juice of half a lime or lemon
1/2 cup ginger kombucha (you can omit this, but it does add flavor and tenderness to the meat)
1/3 cup coconut aminos
3-6 garlic cloves, crushed
1 tsp smoked salt
cracked black pepper, to taste
1/4 tsp granulated onion
2 Tbs orange jam, optional (adds additional flavor, but not necessary)
1/3 cup avocado oil, plus additional for cooking
Directions:
In a medium glass bowl, whisk together all marinade ingredients up to avocado oil. Drizzle in avocado oil while whisking to emulsify.
Add meat, stir to coat, and cover. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours and up to 24. The longer the marination, the richer the flavor!
When ready to cook, remove meat from the fridge and let come to room temp for about 20 minutes. This guarantees a more even cook.
Preheat skillet over medium heat and drizzle in additional avocado oil. Add a few pieces of meat at a time, making sure to choose pieces that are the same size and texture for even cooking.
Cover with a lid and let sear for 5-8 minutes per side, then flip and cook an additional 5 minutes. You want there to be a little give when you squeeze the meat, not solid like a brick.
Remove meat and let rest on a plate while you cook all additional meat.
Slice and serve with your favorite sides! (Like my orange bacon brussels sprouts, creamy carrot mash, fresh slaw, mashed white sweet potatoes, etc). Refrigerate leftovers and enjoy within one week.
If you’re so fortunate to have access to some game meat, fear it no more! This marinade yields delicious results every time. I hope you love it! Let me know if you give it a try!
In loving health,
Ashley
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