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Tuesday, December 11, 2012

Venison Carrot Chowder

 This recipe is commonly found in the Shenandoah Valley, but rarely anywhere else. Most people are tuned off by its main ingredient. Don't worry, the carrots only add a mildly sweet flavor! They are not overpowering. This chowder is actually tomato based.


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While you can use lean beef or ground chicken, venison is perfect. Venison lends itself well to soups, chowders, and stews because it is lean enough to not leave a greasy film like beef, but will also not dry out as easily as chicken. Venison also has a mild flavor, allowing the vegetables to take center stage.


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If your kids like tomato soup they will probably like this one. Pair it with a grilled cheese sandwich and some chips or pretzels and you have a great family meal!


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It also makes a great base for experimentation. Leave out some ingredients  add some, it will change subtly and be great!

This recipe almost requires a food processor. Otherwise you will be slicing forever! For best results slice the vegetables as thin as a credit card. 

Venison Carrot Chowder

  • 1 pound Ground Venison
  • 4 cups Tomato Sauce
  • 1 can Cream of Celery Soup (or Cream of Chicken, although the Celery is better)
  • 3 cups Shredded Carrots (use a cheese grater or your food processor)
  • 1 cup Thinly Sliced Celery ( I used the slicing attachment on my food processor)
  • 1 cup Thinly Sliced Onion (again, food processor)
  • 1 cup Thinly Sliced Green Bell Pepper (yup, food processor again)
  • 1 tablespoon Minced Garlic
  • 1/2 teaspoon Celery Seed
  • 1 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper (optional, but adds a lot to the taste!)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups Water
  • Shredded Cheddar Cheese
  • Sour Cream


Brown Venison with olive oil. 

In large pot or dutch oven, combine all ingredients. Bring to a boil and then simmer for half an hour  for a chunky chowder or up to four hours for a creamy chowder. I prefer creamy.

Top with shredded cheddar cheese and sour cream.

Enjoy!

Try adding some cyan pepper, diced potatoes, black beans, or corn for a different flavor!


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