Ingredients

  • 1 pound boneless venison in 1-inch cubes
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 4 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup chopped onions
  • 2 cups small mushrooms, quartered
  • 1/2 cup chopped carrot
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup dry red wine
  • 2 1/2 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 1/2 cups lentils
  • 1/2 cup beef stock
  • Salt

Method

  • Mix the venison with the vinegar and two tablespoons of the olive oil.
  • Allow to marinate for two hours.
  • Heat two tablespoons of the olive oil in a heavy casserole.
  • Add the onion, saute until it begins to soften, then add the mushrooms and carrot and saute about six minutes longer.
  • Stir in the garlic.
  • Add the wine, water, thyme, pepper, lentils and the venison with the marinade.
  • Bring to a simmer, cover and allow to simmer for about one hour, until the lentils and the venison are tender.
  • Stir in the beef stock and continue to cook about 20 minutes longer, until the stock is absorbed.
  • Season to taste with salt and serve.