Looking for a hearty and flavorful slow cooker venison curry? This easy recipe guarantees melt-in-your-mouth venison with bold spices. Perfect for your next dinner!
Course Main Course
Prep Time 20 minutesmins
Cook Time 8 hourshrs
Servings 4
Ingredients
2lbsvenisoncubed, preferably shoulder or neck
2tablespoonolive oil
1large onionchopped
4garlic clovesminced
2-inchpiece of fresh gingerminced
1red chilioptional, for heat, sliced
2tablespooncurry powder
1tablespoongaram masala
1teaspoonturmeric
1teaspooncumin
1can14 oz diced tomatoes
1can14 oz coconut milk
1tablespoontomato paste
1tablespoontamarind pasteoptional, for tanginess
1teaspoonsalt
1teaspoonblack pepper
Fresh cilantrochopped (for garnish)
1tablespoonlemon juice
2cupsjasmine riceto serve
Instructions
Prep the Venison
Trim any excess silverskin from the venison. Season the cubes with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of cumin. This helps tenderize the meat and adds flavor from the get-go.
Sear the Venison (Optional but Recommended)
Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the venison cubes for about 2-3 minutes on each side until browned. This step locks in flavor but isn’t mandatory if you’re short on time.
Build the Flavor Base
In the same skillet, add more olive oil if needed, and sauté the onions, garlic, and ginger until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Add the red chili if you’re feeling bold. Stir in curry powder, garam masala, turmeric, and cumin. Cook for another 2 minutes to bloom the spices.
Transfer to Slow Cooker
Place the seared venison, onion mixture, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, coconut milk, and tamarind paste (if using) into the slow cooker. Give it a good stir to combine all those amazing flavors.
Cook Low and Slow
Set the slow cooker on low and let it work its magic for 6-8 hours. The venison should be fall-apart tender, and the sauce rich and thick. If you want it thicker, remove the lid for the last hour of cooking.
Final Touches
Before serving, stir in lemon juice for brightness. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or spice if needed.
Serve
Serve the curry hot over jasmine rice, garnished with fresh cilantro. Pair it with naan or a simple raita if you’re feeling extra fancy!