Venison

Venaison

What it is

Almost fat-free, because a wild animal that runs does not store marbling — which is why it dries out at temperatures beef would shrug off. Medieval forest law reserved it for the king, and poaching it could cost a hand.

In the kitchen

Serve it rare and rest it long. There is no fat to keep it moist and no forgiveness past medium.

Goes with

Juniper berry Red wine vinegar Blackberry Chestnut Cubeb pepper Thyme Celeriac Dark chocolate

Also used with

Beechnut Bog myrtle Crowberry Crème de cassis de Dijon Da Hong Pao Fir honeydew honey

In season alongside

Woodcock Hare Wild boar Figatellu Goose Lamprey

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