Red Wine Braised Elk Cavatelli Recipe

Cooking Instructions

1. 1

   Prepare the Elk

   In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Season elk cubes with salt and pepper, then brown them in the pot until browned on all sides. Remove elk from pot and set aside.

2. 2

   Sauté Vegetables

   In the same pot, add diced onion and cook until translucent. Add minced garlic, diced butternut squash, and maitake mushrooms. Cook for about 5 minutes until they start to soften.

3. 3

   Deglaze with Wine

   Pour in the red wine and scrape the bottom of the pot to deglaze. Allow the wine to reduce by half.

4. 4

   Braise the Elk

   Return the browned elk to the pot. Add fresh thyme and enough water to cover the meat. Bring to a simmer, then cover and cook on low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours until the elk is tender.

5. 5

   Cook Cavatelli

   While the elk is braising, cook the cavatelli according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

6. 6

   Combine and Serve

   Once the elk is tender, stir in the cooked cavatelli and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Serve hot, topped with grated manchego cheese.