Venison stroganoff is delicious and healthy, and is just one more way to prepare venison for a family meal. Photo courtesy of Cornell Cooperative Extension

As the Western New York big-game firearms season heads to close this Sunday, Dec. 7, successful hunters are shifting from the woods to the kitchen. Many, especially first-timers, are looking for fresh and healthy ways to prepare their venison for a taste test at the family table.

For newcomers, the prospect of turning a deer harvest into delicious, nutritious meals can be both exciting and intimidating. Fortunately, venison is one of the leanest, most versatile wild meats there is — with guidance from trusted resources like Cornell Cooperative Extension’s wild game preparation materials, it’s easier than ever to create wholesome dishes the whole family can enjoy.

One recipe that consistently appeals to both new and seasoned cooks is venison stroganoff — a comfort-food classic that adapts beautifully to a low-sodium, heart-healthy approach. A healthy approach to this classic is simple. Traditional stroganoff relies heavily on butter, salt, and canned soups. A healthier venison version swaps those out for fresh ingredients, controlled seasonings, and lean cuts. Start by choosing a tender portion of the deer, such as the backstrap or top round, and trimming away all visible fat and silver skin. This not only improves flavor but also reduces the strong “gamey” notes that can worry beginners.

Instead of seasoning heavily with salt, build flavor with aromatics. Onions and garlic, sauteed until soft. Low-sodium beef or vegetable broth. Fresh mushrooms. Paprika and black pepper. A dollop of Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream added at the end for creaminess without excess sodium. Note that slices of venison cook quickly, just a few minutes to brown, which prevents dryness. Once combined in the skillet, the mixture simmers gently until the meat is tender and the sauce thickens. Serving the stroganoff over whole-grain noodles or brown rice adds a boost of fiber and makes the meal feel hearty without relying on salt. Other low-sodium venison ideas are always appreciated by more and more Americans these days. Hunters looking to broaden their culinary skills will find that venison lends itself naturally to healthy cooking. Because it’s so lean, it often benefits from moist, slow methods or vegetable-rich preparations.

A few beginner-friendly options include Venison Chili (Low Sodium): Use fresh tomatoes, beans rinsed thoroughly to reduce salt, plenty of spices, and lean ground venison. Slow simmering blends flavors without needing additional sodium. Roasted Venison and Root Vegetables: Carrots, onions, and parsnips add natural sweetness. A rub of olive oil, black pepper, rosemary, and garlic provides depth without salt. Venison Lettuce Wraps: Quick-seared strips of venison mixed with peppers, onions, and a splash of low-sodium soy or citrus make for a light, high-protein meal.

Slow-Cooked Venison Stew: Low-sodium broth, potatoes, celery, and herbs create a winter-perfect dish that’s both filling and heart-healthy.

Step-by-step guidance for new hunters can be found at the Cornell Cooperative Extension wild-game harvest table at wildharvesttable.com. multiple recipes there for deer, rabbit, duck, and many other wild game resources. This website shares fundamentals that make all the difference in the kitchen. As the season winds down, Western New Yorkers can take pride not only in the time spent outdoors but in the meals to come. Healthy venison dishes offer a rewarding way to honor the harvest, gather with family, and enjoy the benefits of wild, local protein. Whether you’re preparing your first deer or your 50th, now is the perfect time to explore new flavors and keep your winter cooking both

Gotta love the outdoors!

Outdoors Calendar

Dec. 4: WNY Walleye Assoc., monthly meeting, 6:30 p.m., Knights of Columbus, Hamburg.

Dec. 6: WNY Trout Unlimited, Christmas Party, Duff’s, 3090 Orchard Park Rd., West Seneca, 1 p.m.-4 p.m., $10 entry.

Dec. 7: Last Day of Southern Zone Regular Big Game Hunting Season

Dec. 8 – 16: NYS Southern Zone Late Archery/Muzzleloader Big Game hunting season.

Dec. 26 – Jan. 1: NYS Southern Zone late archery/crossbow/muzzleloader special deer-only season. Regular firearms are not allowed.