Table of Contents
Venison is an incredibly lean and flavorful meat, often considered a delicacy by those who love hunting or who appreciate wild game. Wrapping venison in bacon adds fat to keep the tenderloin juicy while infusing it with smoky richness, making for a perfectly tender and mouth watering meal. Combined with a maple syrup glaze, this dish creates an irresistible sweet-and-savory experience that makes it perfect for special dinners and holidays.
In this article, we will explore how to create the perfect Bacon-Wrapped Venison Tenderloins with Maple Syrup Glaze, including ingredients, step-by-step directions, cooking tips, nutritional information, and more. This detailed guide will help you master this Bacon-Wrapped Venison Tenderloins impressive dish and impress your friends and family.
Ingredients for Bacon-Wrapped Venison Tenderloins
Before starting, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients prepared. The key components of this recipe are venison tenderloins and bacon, along with a sweet maple syrup glaze.
- 2 venison tenderloins
- 8-10 slices of bacon
- 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
These ingredients combine to create a perfect balance of flavors that enhance the natural taste of venison while adding a touch of sweetness from the maple glaze.
Preparation Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Kcal per Serving: Approximately 320 kcal (depending on the size of
- the tenderloin and thickness of bacon slices)
Directions: Step-by-Step Preparation of Bacon-Wrapped Venison Tenderloins
1. Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, mix together 1/4 cup of pure maple syrup, 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. This glaze will help provide a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the savory taste of the bacon-wrapped venison.
Make sure to mix the glaze well to ensure the ingredients are evenly combined, creating a smooth consistency.
2. Wrap the Tenderloins with Bacon
To start, take the venison tenderloins and pat them dry with a paper towel. This will help the bacon stick better. Place the bacon slices on a clean cutting board, slightly overlapping each other.
Position the venison tenderloin at one end of the bacon slices, and carefully roll it up so that the bacon wraps around it entirely. Ensure that the bacon slices overlap slightly to secure them in place. If needed, use toothpicks to hold the bacon in position.
3. Preheat the Oven and Bake the Venison
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Prepare a baking sheet by lining it with foil to make cleanup easier and to help prevent sticking.
Place the bacon-wrapped tenderloins on the baking sheet, leaving a bit of space between each piece for even cooking. Brush the tenderloins with half of the maple glaze, ensuring that it is evenly distributed across the entire surface.
Place the tenderloins in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes.
4. Add More Glaze and Finish Baking
After 20 minutes of baking, remove the venison from the oven and brush it with the remaining glaze. This will add extra flavor and help caramelize the bacon as it cooks.
Return the tenderloins to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the internal temperature of the venison reaches 135-145°F (57-63°C) for medium-rare to medium doneness. Use a meat thermometer to check the temperature and avoid overcooking, as venison can become tough if cooked too long.
5. Rest, Slice, and Serve
Once the venison has finished cooking, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a tender and juicy result.
Carefully remove any toothpicks, and then slice the tenderloins into medallions. Serve the bacon-wrapped venison tenderloins with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh green salad.
Tips for Perfect Bacon-Wrapped Venison Tenderloins
1. Use Thin Bacon Slices
When selecting bacon for this Bacon-Wrapped Venison Tenderloins recipe, choose thin slices. Thin bacon cooks more quickly, allowing it to become crispy without overcooking the venison. If you use thick-cut bacon, the venison may become tough before the bacon has fully crisped.
2. Do Not Overcook Venison
Venison is a very lean meat, and overcooking it can lead to a dry and tough texture. To ensure that your venison remains tender and juicy, aim for an internal temperature of 135-145°F, which will yield a medium-rare to medium doneness.
3. Let the Meat Rest
Allowing the venison to rest for 5 minutes after cooking is crucial. Resting helps the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring a moist and flavorful bite.
Benefits of Eating Bacon-Wrapped Venison Tenderloins
1. Lean Source of Protein
Venison is a lean source of protein that is lower in fat compared to many other types of red meat. This makes it an excellent choice for those who are looking to reduce their fat intake while still enjoying a rich and satisfying meal.
2. Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
Venison is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin B12, zinc, niacin, and iron. These nutrients are vital for maintaining energy levels, supporting immune function, and promoting overall health.
3. Sustainable and Ethical Meat Choice
For those who hunt or source their venison from local suppliers, this meat is often considered a sustainable and ethical choice. Wild venison is free from the antibiotics and hormones commonly found in commercially raised meat, making it a more natural and healthier option.
Conclusion
Bacon-Wrapped Venison Tenderloins with Maple Syrup Glaze is an impressive and flavorful dish that is perfect for a special dinner or holiday gathering. The combination of smoky bacon, tender venison, and sweet maple glaze creates a delicious harmony of flavors that is sure to delight your guests.
By following this step-by-step guide, you can create a Bacon-Wrapped Venison Tenderloins dish that is not only visually stunning but also packed with flavor. Remember to use thin bacon slices, avoid overcooking the venison, and let it rest before serving for the best results.
Whether you are a seasoned wild game cook or trying venison for the first time, this Bacon-Wrapped Venison Tenderloins recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy this lean and nutritious meat. Pair it with your favorite side dishes, and enjoy a meal that is both elegant and comforting.
FAQs
Can I Substitute Venison with Another Type of Meat?
Yes, you can substitute venison tenderloins with other lean cuts of meat, such as beef tenderloin or pork tenderloin. However, cooking times may vary slightly, so be sure to use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
Can I Cook the Venison on the Grill Instead of in the Oven?
Absolutely! To cook the venison on a grill, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the bacon-wrapped tenderloins on the grill and cook for 15-20 minutes, turning occasionally, until the bacon is crispy and the internal temperature reaches 135-145°F.
How Should I Store Leftover Venison Tenderloins?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the tenderloins in a preheated oven at 325°F (163°C) for about 10 minutes, or until heated through.
