In November, when her husband embarks on his deer hunting adventures, Ruth Setterlund is always on the lookout for new and exciting recipes to utilize the venison they harvest. One particular family favorite is a slow cooker venison sandwich, where tender venison is cooked with a flavorful blend of soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, and hot pepper sauce. Let’s delve into the history, ingredients, and instructions for creating these mouthwatering sandwiches.

As November rolls around, Ruth Setterlund eagerly awaits her husband’s hunting season, which provides them with fresh venison. Seeking innovative ways to prepare this lean and flavorful meat, she discovered a recipe that became an instant hit with her entire family. By slow cooking the venison and infusing it with a harmonious blend of soy sauce, brown sugar, ketchup, and hot pepper sauce, Ruth created a delightful and satisfying dish. These venison sandwiches have become a beloved tradition, combining the thrill of the hunt with the joy of sharing a delicious meal.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 boneless venison roast (4 pounds)
• 1½ cups ketchup
• 3 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon ground mustard
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon liquid smoke (optional)
• 2 teaspoons celery salt
• 2 teaspoons pepper
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• ⅛ teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 3 drops hot pepper sauce
• 14 to 18 hamburger buns, split

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Cut the venison roast in half and place it in a 5-quart slow cooker.
2. In a large bowl, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, ground mustard, lemon juice, soy sauce, liquid smoke (if desired), celery salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, ground nutmeg, and hot pepper sauce. Mix well.
3. Pour the sauce mixture over the venison in the slow cooker, ensuring that the meat is evenly coated.
4. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or until the venison is tender and easily shreds.
5. Once cooked, remove the venison roast from the slow cooker and set it aside to cool slightly.
6. Using two forks, shred the meat into smaller pieces. Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker and heat through, allowing it to absorb the flavors of the sauce.
7. Using a slotted spoon, place the meat mixture onto the bottom halves of the hamburger buns.
8. Replace the tops of the buns, completing the sandwiches.

These slow cooker venison sandwiches are perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying as leftovers throughout the week. The tender, flavorful venison pairs beautifully with the tangy and slightly sweet sauce. Serve them up on split hamburger buns, and savor the deliciousness of this cherished family recipe.