Elk Round Steak: A Wild Game Feast

Elk round steak, a cut prized for its lean, flavorful meat, serves as the canvas for a culinary masterpiece that transcends borders. This dish, a symphony of tastes and textures, is a testament to the power of culinary fusion, where diverse traditions harmonize to create a truly unique dining experience.

Ingredients:

1.5 lbs elk round steak, trimmed

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup red wine

1 cup beef broth

1 tablespoon tomato paste

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary

1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Salt and pepper to taste

1 pound mixed mushrooms, sliced

1 cup heavy cream

Fresh parsley, for garnish

Image Source: modernfarmhouseeats.com

Preparation:

1. Sear the Steak: Season the elk round steak with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Sear the steak on all sides until browned, about 5 minutes per side. Remove the steak from the pan and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the onion and garlic. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Deglaze and Simmer: Deglaze the pan with red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Add beef broth, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Add the Steak and Mushrooms: Return the seared steak to the sauce and add the sliced mushrooms. Cover and simmer for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the steak is tender.
5. Create the Sauce: Remove the steak from the sauce and keep warm. In a separate saucepan, whisk together the heavy cream until smooth. Gradually whisk in some of the hot sauce from the skillet to temper the cream. Return the cream mixture to the sauce and bring to a simmer, stirring constantly until thickened.
6. Plate and Serve: Slice the steak and arrange on a serving platter. Pour the rich, velvety sauce over the steak and garnish with fresh parsley.

Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes

Serving Ideas:

Classic: Serve with mashed potatoes, roasted root vegetables, and a side of steamed broccoli.

Modern: Pair with a creamy polenta, sautéed spinach, and a drizzle of truffle oil.

Global Fusion: Accompany with a fragrant pilaf, a dollop of Greek yogurt, and a sprinkle of za’atar.

This dish is a harmonious blend of flavors and techniques, drawing inspiration from various culinary traditions. The rich, savory sauce is reminiscent of French cuisine, while the hearty, meaty steak is a nod to classic American fare. The addition of mushrooms and herbs adds a touch of earthy, forest-like flavors, reminiscent of the elk’s natural habitat.

As we savor this culinary masterpiece, we embark on a global odyssey, traversing diverse cultures and traditions. Each bite is a journey, a testament to the power of food to unite and inspire.