Venison Bourguignon

Directions

1. 1
   Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large saucepot. Add the bacon and cook over medium heat until brown and crisp. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. 2
   Next pat the venison chunks dry with a paper towel and salt and pepper to taste. Brown the deer meat on all sides. Then remove with a slotted spoon.
3. 3
   Add the onions, garlic, and carrots to the pot. Cook and stir for several minutes until the onions have softened, then add the mushrooms and cook another 5-10 minutes.
4. 4
   Add all meat back to the pot, followed by the brandy, wine, stock, and tomato paste. Add 1 teaspoon salt and 1 teaspoon pepper and stir well. Then add the bouquet garni and cover.
5. 5
   Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for approximately 3 hours until the venison is very tender.
6. 6
   In the last hour of simmering, preheat the oven to 450 degrees F.
7. 7
   Place the mini potatoes on a rimmed baking sheet and toss with the remaining 2 tablespoons oil, salt and pepper.
8. 8
   Roast for 35-45 minutes until tender, tossing once in the middle.
9. 9
   Once the venison is tender, mix the oftened butter with 1/4 cup of flour. Use a fork to press into a paste.
10. 10
    Slowly stir the butter mixture into the stew until the desired thickness in reached-I like to add it all!
11. 11
    Salt and pepper to taste if needed.