Sweet and Spicy Bacon-Wrapped Venison Tenderloin

Venison is a game meat known for its lean, rich flavor and tender texture. When combined with crispy bacon and a delicious sweet and spicy glaze, it transforms into an irresistible dish that can be served at any special occasion or as a unique dinner option. The combination of the smoky, savory bacon with the sweetness of maple syrup and the kick from hot sauce creates a perfect balance of flavors that will leave you craving more.

This Sweet and Spicy Bacon-Wrapped Venison recipe is not only simple to prepare but also packed with rich flavors that will make your taste buds sing. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or preparing a delicious family meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

In this article, we will dive deep into the preparation process, discuss the ingredients in detail, provide tips for cooking, explore the health benefits of venison, and answer frequently asked questions to help you master this dish.

Ingredients

To create this sweet and spicy bacon-wrapped venison, you will need the following ingredients:

For the Venison:

• 1 lb venison tenderloin, cut into 2-inch pieces: The venison tenderloin is a lean cut that remains tender and flavorful when cooked properly.
• 8-10 slices bacon: Choose quality, thick-cut bacon for the best results. The bacon will provide the perfect crispy texture and smoky flavor that pairs well with venison.

For the Sweet and Spicy Glaze:

• 1/4 cup pure maple syrup: Maple syrup adds a rich sweetness to balance the spicy kick from the hot sauce.
• 2 tbsp hot sauce: Hot sauce gives the dish the right amount of heat. Adjust the quantity depending on your spice preference.
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard: This adds a tangy depth of flavor to the glaze, balancing the sweetness and spice.
• 1 tbsp soy sauce: Soy sauce brings a savory umami flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: Smoked paprika gives the venison a subtle smoky flavor that complements the bacon and the other ingredients.
• Salt and pepper: Season to taste, enhancing the flavor of the venison and the bacon.

Directions

Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing Sweet and Spicy Bacon-Wrapped Venison

1️⃣ Prep the Venison: Season the venison pieces with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika.

Start by cutting your venison tenderloin into 2-inch pieces. Season each piece generously with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Smoked paprika adds an earthy and smoky flavor that complements both the venison and bacon. Set the seasoned venison aside for a few minutes while you prepare the glaze and wrap the meat in bacon.

2️⃣ Wrap with Bacon: Wrap each piece of venison with a slice of bacon.

Take your bacon slices and carefully wrap each venison piece with one slice of bacon. Make sure the bacon covers the entire piece of venison. If necessary, use toothpicks to secure the bacon in place. The bacon will crisp up as it cooks, giving the venison an amazing texture and flavor.

3️⃣ Prepare the Glaze: In a bowl, whisk together maple syrup, hot sauce, Dijon mustard, and soy sauce.

In a small bowl, combine the maple syrup, hot sauce, Dijon mustard, and soy sauce. Whisk the ingredients together until they form a smooth, well-blended glaze. You can adjust the heat by adding more or less hot sauce, depending on your spice tolerance. The maple syrup adds sweetness, while the hot sauce provides a spicy kick, and the mustard and soy sauce add tang and depth.

4️⃣ Cook the Bacon-Wrapped Venison: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the bacon-wrapped venison pieces for 2-3 minutes on each side until the bacon is crispy.

Place a large skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add the bacon-wrapped venison pieces. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until the bacon becomes crispy and browned. As the bacon cooks, brush the venison with the sweet and spicy glaze to enhance the flavor. Be sure to coat the venison evenly with the glaze as it cooks.

5️⃣ Finish and Serve: Once cooked to your desired doneness, remove from the heat and drizzle with any remaining glaze.

Once the bacon is crispy and the venison is cooked to your preferred level of doneness, remove the bacon-wrapped venison from the skillet. Drizzle any remaining glaze over the venison for an extra burst of flavor. Serve the dish with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the bacon and venison.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Total Time: 25-27 minutes

Calories Per Serving: Approx. 300-350 kcal

Tips for the Perfect Sweet and Spicy Bacon-Wrapped Venison

1. Use Thick-Cut Bacon: Thick-cut bacon works best for this recipe as it holds up better during the cooking process and provides a perfect crispy texture that contrasts with the tender venison.
2. Adjust the Spice Level: You can control the heat by adjusting the amount of hot sauce in the glaze. For a milder version, use less hot sauce, or opt for a milder hot sauce variety. For more heat, add extra hot sauce or try a spicier variety like Sriracha.
3. Don’t Overcook the Venison: Venison cooks quickly and can become tough if overcooked. Aim for medium-rare to medium for the best texture and flavor. You can also use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Venison should be cooked to 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.
4. Rest the Meat: After cooking, allow the bacon-wrapped venison to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps redistribute the juices and ensures the venison remains tender and juicy.
5. Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a light quinoa dish to balance the richness of the bacon and venison.

Health Benefits of Venison

Venison is a nutritious and lean alternative to beef and pork. It offers several health benefits, including:

1. High in Protein: Venison is packed with protein, making it an excellent choice for building and repairing tissues and muscles.
2. Low in Fat: Unlike beef, venison is leaner, with much less fat, making it a healthier meat option.
3. Rich in Iron: Venison is a great source of iron, which helps to boost red blood cell production and support overall energy levels.
4. High in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Venison provides omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for heart health and reducing inflammation in the body.
5. Low in Calories: Compared to other meats, venison is lower in calories, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain or lose weight while still enjoying a delicious and satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use a different type of meat instead of venison?

Yes! While venison is the star of this recipe, you can substitute it with other meats like beef tenderloin, chicken breast, or turkey. However, venison’s unique flavor makes it the perfect choice for this dish.

2. How can I make the glaze spicier?

To increase the heat in the glaze, simply add more hot sauce or even a few drops of cayenne pepper. You can also try using a spicier hot sauce variety for more kick.

3. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can prep the bacon-wrapped venison and the glaze ahead of time. Store the venison in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook it, and keep the glaze in a separate container. When you’re ready, simply cook the venison and apply the glaze as instructed.

4. Can I cook this dish in the oven instead of a skillet?

Yes, you can cook the bacon-wrapped venison in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the wrapped venison on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the bacon is crispy and the venison is cooked to your desired doneness.

5. How do I store leftovers?

If you have leftovers, store the bacon-wrapped venison in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the venison in a skillet over low heat, adding a little extra glaze if desired.

Conclusion

Sweet and Spicy Bacon-Wrapped Venison is an easy yet delicious dish that combines the best of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a mouthwatering meal that is sure to impress. Whether you are cooking for a special occasion or just enjoying a weeknight meal, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that will leave everyone asking for seconds. So gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and enjoy the perfect blend of flavors in every bite!