Venison Italian Soup

Venison Italian Soup Recipe

Region / culture: Italy | Servings: 6

Introduction

Venison Italian Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. This soup is packed with protein and vegetables, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal. The combination of venison, tomatoes, beans, and pasta creates a delicious and comforting soup that is sure to warm you up on a cold day.

History

Venison Italian Soup is a traditional Italian dish that has been enjoyed for generations. Venison, or deer meat, has long been a popular ingredient in Italian cuisine, prized for its lean and tender texture. This soup combines classic Italian flavors like tomatoes, garlic, basil, and oregano with hearty vegetables and pasta to create a delicious and comforting meal.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) ground venison
1 onion, chopped
1 can (14.5 oz or 411 g) stewed tomatoes
2 cans (8 oz or 227 g) tomato sauce
3 cups water
1 tbsp minced garlic
2 tsp dried basil
2 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
0.5 tsp ground black pepper
1 can (15 oz or 425 g) pinto beans
1 can (15 oz or 425 g) green beans
1 carrot, chopped
1 zucchini, chopped
0.5 package (16 oz or 454 g) ziti pasta

How to prepare

In a medium heat, brown the venison, onion, and garlic until the meat is no longer pink.
Add tomatoes, tomato sauce, water, and spices.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for approximately 30 minutes.
Stir in the beans, carrots, and zucchini.
Continue simmering the soup for 90 minutes.
Add the pasta and cook until it is tender.
Before serving, sprinkle grated cheese on individual servings.

Variations

Substitute ground beef or turkey for the venison for a different flavor profile.
Add additional vegetables such as bell peppers, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
Use different types of beans or pasta to customize the soup to your liking.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to brown the venison, onion, and garlic before adding the other ingredients to enhance the flavor of the soup.

- Simmering the soup for an extended period of time allows the flavors to meld together and develop a rich and savory taste.

- Adding the pasta towards the end of cooking ensures that it doesn't become mushy and overcooked.

- Sprinkling grated cheese on top of the soup before serving adds a delicious finishing touch.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Venison Italian Soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal. Garnish with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the venison, onion, and garlic before adding the other ingredients enhances the flavor of the soup.

- Simmering the soup for an extended period of time allows the flavors to meld together and develop a rich and savory taste.

- Adding the pasta towards the end of cooking ensures that it doesn't become mushy and overcooked.

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground beef or turkey can be used in place of venison.

- Different types of beans or pasta can be substituted based on personal preference.

- Fresh herbs can be used instead of dried for a more vibrant flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Venison Italian Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Venison Italian Soup in individual bowls garnished with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of grated cheese. Pair with a glass of red wine for a cozy and elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Venison Italian Soup pairs well with a variety of wines, such as Chianti or Merlot. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Venison Italian Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Calories: 300 per serving

Carbohydrates

Carbohydrates: 45g per serving

Fats

Total Fat: 5g per serving

Saturated Fat: 2g per serving

Proteins

Protein: 20g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 20% of daily value per serving

- Vitamin C: 15% of daily value per serving

- Iron: 10% of daily value per serving

Alergens

Contains: Wheat, Dairy

Summary

Venison Italian Soup is a nutritious and balanced meal that is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is a great source of carbohydrates for energy and is relatively low in fat. However, it does contain allergens such as wheat and dairy, so be mindful of any dietary restrictions.

Summary

Venison Italian Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with protein, vegetables, and pasta, this soup is a nutritious and satisfying meal that is sure to warm you up on a cold day. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful soup with your family and friends for a delicious and memorable dining experience.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a treasured one. It was a cold winter day, and I had just returned from hunting with my dear husband, John. We were lucky enough to have bagged a beautiful deer, and I knew I had to come up with a new and delicious way to prepare the venison.

I had always been a lover of Italian cuisine, so I decided to try my hand at creating a Venison Italian Soup. I turned to my trusty collection of cookbooks, but couldn't find anything that quite fit what I had in mind. So, I did what any resourceful cook would do - I improvised.

I started by browning the venison in a pot with some onions and garlic. The smell that filled the kitchen was heavenly, and I knew I was on the right track. I added in some diced tomatoes, broth, and a handful of Italian seasonings - oregano, basil, thyme, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

As the soup simmered on the stove, the flavors melded together beautifully. The venison became tender and infused with all of the delicious herbs and spices. I couldn't wait to dig in and taste the fruits of my labor.

When John came in from the cold and saw the steaming bowl of Venison Italian Soup waiting for him, he couldn't believe his eyes. He took one bite and declared it the best soup he had ever tasted. I knew then that I had stumbled upon a winning recipe.

From that day on, Venison Italian Soup became a staple in our household. Whenever we had guests over, I would whip up a batch and watch as their faces lit up with delight. It was a dish that brought people together and warmed them from the inside out.

Over the years, I shared my recipe with friends and family, and it quickly became a favorite among them as well. They would often ask me where I had learned to make such a delicious soup, and I would simply smile and say that it was a creation born out of necessity and love for good food.

As the years passed, my collection of recipes grew and evolved. I continued to experiment with different ingredients and techniques, always striving to create new and exciting dishes for my loved ones to enjoy. But no matter how many recipes I tried, Venison Italian Soup remained a standout in my repertoire.

Now, as I sit here reminiscing about that cold winter day and the discovery of this beloved recipe, I can't help but feel grateful for all of the wonderful memories and meals that it has brought into my life. Cooking has always been a passion of mine, and I am thankful for the opportunity to share that passion with those around me.

So, if you ever find yourself with a fresh batch of venison and a craving for something warm and comforting, I urge you to give my Venison Italian Soup a try. I promise you won't be disappointed. And who knows, maybe one day you'll be sitting down with your own loved ones, sharing stories and delicious food, just like I am now.