Venison, with its rich, gamey flavor, is a perfect canvas for bold, smoky flavors. These Grilled Venison Chops, rubbed with a flavorful coffee spice blend and served with a sweet and smoky blueberry chipotle sauce, offer a unique and delicious take on grilled meats. The addition of fresh blueberries and chopped parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to each bite, making this dish a stunning centerpiece for any special occasion or casual gathering.
Yields: 6-8 servings
Ingredients:
For the Venison:
- 6-8 Venison Chops or Medallions
- Fresh Blueberries (for garnish)
- Chopped Parsley (for garnish)
For the Coffee Rub:
- 1.5 tbsp Ground Coffee
- 2 tsp Kosher Salt
- 1.5 tsp Black Pepper
- 1.5 tsp Chipotle Powder
- 1.5 tsp Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp Onion Powder
- 1 tsp Cinnamon
For the Blueberry Chipotle Sauce:
- ¼ cup Fresh Blueberries
- 2.5 tbsp Chipotle Puree
- 1.5 tbsp Apple Cider Vinegar
- ¾ tbsp Molasses
- 5-6 Garlic Cloves
- 1 tsp Brown Sugar
- ½ tsp Kosher Salt
- ½ tsp Black Pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the Coffee Rub: In a bowl, combine all the ingredients for the coffee rub. Coat your venison chops with a light layer of canola oil, then generously season all sides with the coffee rub. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the sauce and grill.
- Make the Blueberry Chipotle Sauce: Add all sauce ingredients to a food processor and blend until smooth. Transfer to a bowl, cover, and refrigerate until ready to serve. Note: The sauce may firm up in the fridge, so stir it back into a liquid consistency before serving.
- Grill the Venison: Preheat your grill to high heat (around 400°F) for direct grilling. Place the venison chops on the grill and cook for about 1.5 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 120°F for medium-rare. Once done, remove the chops from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes.
- Assemble and Serve: After resting, plate the venison chops and drizzle with the blueberry chipotle sauce. Garnish with fresh blueberries and chopped parsley for a burst of freshness.
This recipe brings a touch of sophistication with its bold flavors, making it a great choice for a dinner party or a memorable weekend meal. Pair it with Day 12 Advent Wine for a match made in flavor-heaven.