Instant Pot Venison Curry: A Rich, Flavorful, and Easy Wild Game Recipe

Introduction

If you’re looking for a flavorful, aromatic, and easy-to-make curry, this Instant Pot Venison Curry is the perfect dish to add to your meal rotation. With its tender chunks of venison, rich and spiced sauce, and deep, slow-cooked flavors achieved in a fraction of the time, this recipe is a must-try for anyone who enjoys wild game.

Cooking venison in an Instant Pot is an excellent way to break down its lean texture while infusing it with bold curry flavors. Whether you’ve harvested your own venison or sourced it from a trusted supplier, this curry will transform your wild game into a restaurant-quality dish.

Why Make Venison Curry in an Instant Pot?

1. Tender and Juicy Meat

Venison is naturally lean, which means it can become tough if not cooked properly. The Instant Pot pressure cooking method locks in moisture, breaking down the fibers for fall-apart tender meat.

2. Infuses Deep Flavors Quickly

Traditional curries require hours of slow simmering, but the Instant Pot reduces cooking time while maximizing flavor.

3. Hands-Free Cooking

Once all the ingredients are in the Instant Pot, it does all the work for you—no constant stirring, checking, or waiting.

4. Perfect for Meal Prep

This dish tastes even better the next day, making it great for batch cooking and meal prepping.

Ingredients

For the Venison Curry:

• 1.5 lbs venison stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 1 green chili, finely chopped (optional for heat)
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 cup beef or venison broth
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon butter or ghee (for added richness)

For the Spice Blend:

• 2 teaspoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 teaspoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon coriander powder
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for extra spice)
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (adds warmth and depth)

For Garnish:

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1/2 lime, cut into wedges
• 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes (optional, for extra texture)

this PIN FOR LATER

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Turn the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and add olive oil.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in the garlic, ginger, and green chili and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add the spice blend and stir for 30 seconds, allowing the flavors to bloom.

Step 2: Brown the Venison

1. Add the venison pieces to the Instant Pot and sear for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Stir in the tomato paste, ensuring the meat is well-coated.

Step 3: Pressure Cook the Curry

1. Pour in the diced tomatoes, coconut milk, and broth.
2. Stir well, making sure nothing is stuck to the bottom.
3. Secure the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to ‘Sealing,’ and pressure cook on HIGH for 35 minutes.
4. Allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then carefully perform a quick release.

Step 4: Finish the Curry

1. Stir in lemon juice and butter/ghee for richness and balance.
2. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
3. If you prefer a thicker curry, turn the Instant Pot to ‘Sauté’ mode and simmer for an extra 5 minutes.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

1. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
2. Serve hot with steamed basmati rice, naan, or cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Best Side Dishes for Venison Curry

• Steamed Basmati Rice – Perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
• Garlic Naan – Adds a soft, chewy texture to complement the rich curry.
• Roasted Vegetables – A healthy, fiber-rich side.
• Mango Chutney – Provides a sweet contrast to the bold spices.

Expert Tips for the Best Venison Curry

✔ Use Fresh Spices – Freshly ground spices give the curry a richer, more complex flavor. ✔ Don’t Skip the Searing Step – Browning the venison enhances its natural flavors and improves texture. ✔ Let It Rest – Allowing the curry to sit for 10 minutes before serving enhances the depth of flavor. ✔ Customize the Heat Level – Add more chili flakes or fresh chopped chilies for extra spice. ✔ Make It Creamier – For a richer curry, stir in extra coconut milk or heavy cream at the end.

Variations & Substitutions

• Spicier Curry: Add extra chili powder, cayenne, or fresh green chilies.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use coconut oil instead of butter/ghee.
• Vegetable Additions: Toss in bell peppers, peas, or spinach for extra nutrients.
• Alternative Protein: This recipe works well with beef, lamb, or chicken if venison isn’t available.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen venison?

Yes! Just ensure it’s fully thawed before cooking for the best texture.

2. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

3. Can I make this curry in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Follow the same steps, then cook on LOW for 6-8 hours.

4. What’s the best way to reheat this curry?

Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or coconut milk to loosen the sauce.

5. Can I make this curry milder?

Yes! Reduce the chili flakes and green chilies for a milder, more kid-friendly version.

Conclusion

This Instant Pot Venison Curry is a rich, aromatic, and deeply satisfying dish that brings out the best in wild game. With its tender meat, complex spice blend, and creamy coconut-based sauce, this dish is both easy to prepare and incredibly flavorful. Whether you’re a seasoned venison cook or trying it for the first time, this recipe ensures a delicious, comforting, and perfectly spiced curry every time.

Try it tonight and enjoy a restaurant-quality curry in the comfort of your home!

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