Hjortegryte med Brunost og Sopp (Venison Stew with Brown Cheese and Mushrooms)
A rich and comforting venison stew, slow-cooked with earthy mushrooms and the unique, slightly sweet and savory flavor of Norwegian brown cheese (brunost). This dish embodies the rustic flavors of Norwegian forests and mountains.
🧂 Ingredients
- 1 kg Venison (deer meat)(cubed (substitute with beef or lamb if unavailable))
- 4 tbsp Butter
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
- 2 large Onions(chopped)
- 3 large Carrots(peeled and sliced)
- 250 g Wild mushrooms (e.g., chanterelles)(cleaned and sliced (cremini or shiitake can be used))
- 3 tbsp All-purpose flour
- 1 liter Beef or game stock
- 6 crushed Juniper berries
- 2 sprigs Fresh thyme
- 2 Bay leaves
- 100 g Norwegian brown cheese (brunost)(sliced or grated)
- 2 dl Heavy cream
- Salt(to taste)
- Black pepper(freshly ground, to taste)
- Lingonberry jam(for serving (optional))
- Boiled potatoes(for serving)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
Pat the venison dry with paper towels. Season generously with salt and pepper.
💡 Tip: Drying the meat helps it brown better. - 2
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, melt 2 tbsp of butter with 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the venison in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Sear on all sides until nicely browned. Remove the meat and set aside.
- 3
Add the remaining 2 tbsp butter and 1 tbsp olive oil to the pot. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- 4
Add the sliced carrots and mushrooms to the pot. Cook for another 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms have released their liquid and started to brown.
- 5
Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir well. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to cook out the raw flour taste.
- 6
Gradually pour in the beef or game stock, stirring continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
💡 Tip: Using a whisk can help ensure a smooth sauce. - 7
Return the browned venison to the pot. Add the crushed juniper berries, thyme sprigs, and bay leaves. Stir to combine.
💡 Tip: If using fresh thyme, tie the sprigs together with kitchen twine for easy removal later. - 8
Bring the stew to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it cook for at least 2 hours, or until the venison is very tender. Stir occasionally.
💡 Tip: Low and slow cooking is key for tender game meat. - 9
Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Stir in the sliced or grated brunost until it melts into the sauce. Add the heavy cream and stir until well combined.
💡 Tip: Brunost adds a unique sweet and savory depth. Adjust the amount to your preference. - 10
Simmer the stew uncovered for another 15-20 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- 11
Serve the Hjortegryte hot, garnished with fresh thyme if desired. It is traditionally served with boiled potatoes and a dollop of lingonberry jam.
💡 Tip: The lingonberry jam provides a tart contrast to the rich stew.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a deeper flavor, marinate the venison in red wine overnight before cooking.
- ✓If you can't find wild mushrooms, common button mushrooms or cremini mushrooms will work well.
- ✓The stew can be made a day in advance; the flavors will meld beautifully overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
- ✓Ensure the brunost is fully melted into the sauce for a smooth consistency.
🔄 Variations
- Add other root vegetables like parsnips or celery root along with the carrots.
- A splash of red wine can be added with the stock for extra depth.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.