Deerly Beloved Venison Meatball

Deerly Beloved, we are gathered here today to introduce to you... Spicy Venison Meatballs!

Buckle up, because we're going off the culinary beaten path today with our "Deerly Beloved Venison Meatball" Yep, you read that right, venison. And if your eyebrows just hit your hairline, stick with me - it's a game-changer.

Now, venison is leaner than a marathon runner, which can make things tricky in the meatball department, because we all know fat equals flavor. But don't start mourning your juicy meatball dreams just yet!

Got some beef or pork handy? Mix it with your venison for a juicier ride.  An 80/20 venison to beef ratio can keep things moist while still letting that venison flavor shine.  Flying solo with venison? Don't sweat it. Call in the cavalry - our trusty sidekicks, eggs and breadcrumbs. They'll bring the moisture to the party, helping the meatballs keep their shape and saving them from drying out faster than a comedian at a convent.

So, ready to make some meatball magic? Apron up, folks. It's time to embark on the "Deerly Beloved Venison Meatball" adventure. Let's roll!

INGREDIENTS

• 1 pound ground venison
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

DIRECTIONS

1. In a large bowl, mix together the ground venison, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and chopped parsley. Be careful not to overwork the mixture to keep the meatballs tender.

2. Roll the meat mixture into 1-inch balls, and set them aside on a plate.

3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs, and cook until they are brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. You may need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet.

4. Once the meatballs are browned, add the marinara sauce to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the meatballs are cooked through and the flavors are well combined.

5. Serve the meatballs hot with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top if desired. They pair perfectly with spaghetti, on a sub roll for a sandwich, or as appetizers.

Enjoy this bold and hearty venison meatball dish that will make even a casual meal feel like a feast!

NOTE: This recipe brings out the rich flavor of venison and pairs it with a little heat from the red pepper flakes. Adjust the quantity to your spice preference.