Elk Medallions Recipes for Delicious Gourmet Meals

Elk medallions offer a luxurious twist on typical venison dishes, prized for their tender texture and rich, gamey flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or simply someone eager to try something new, elk medallions provide a culinary adventure that combines lean protein with gourmet appeal.

These lean cuts are perfect for quick cooking methods like searing or grilling, allowing you to enjoy elk’s natural flavors without overwhelming complexity.

In this blog post, I’ll guide you through several delicious elk medallion recipes that highlight this exquisite meat’s versatility. From classic pan-seared medallions with herb butter to a robust mushroom sauce glaze, these recipes will inspire both beginners and experienced cooks alike.

Plus, I’ll share tips on selecting the best cuts, cooking techniques to keep elk tender, and some creative serving ideas to impress your guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Elk medallions are a fantastic choice for anyone looking to enjoy a lean, nutrient-dense protein that’s bursting with flavor. You’ll love how quickly these recipes come together—perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Because elk is naturally low in fat, it cooks quickly and remains tender when handled properly. These recipes focus on simple, bold seasonings and complementary sauces that enhance the meat’s earthy taste without overpowering it.

Moreover, elk is more sustainable and often more ethically sourced than traditional beef, making these recipes not only delicious but also aligned with conscious eating practices.

Ingredients

• Elk medallions – 4 pieces, about 4 oz each
• Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
• Unsalted butter – 2 tablespoons
• Garlic cloves – 3, minced
• Fresh thyme – 2 teaspoons, chopped
• Fresh rosemary – 1 teaspoon, chopped
• Salt – to taste
• Black pepper – freshly ground, to taste
• Mushrooms – 1 cup, sliced (optional for sauce)
• Beef or venison stock – 1/2 cup (for sauce)
• Red wine – 1/4 cup (for sauce)
• Shallots – 1, finely chopped (for sauce)
• Lemon juice – 1 teaspoon (optional)

Equipment

• Heavy skillet or cast-iron pan
• Tongs
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Small saucepan (for sauce)
• Meat thermometer (optional but recommended)
• Serving platter

Instructions

1. Prepare the elk medallions: Pat the elk medallions dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear. Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
2. Heat the skillet: Place a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and allow it to heat until shimmering but not smoking.
3. Sear the medallions: Carefully place the elk medallions in the skillet. Sear for about 2-3 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer a different doneness. Avoid overcrowding the pan.
4. Add butter and herbs: During the last minute of cooking, add the butter, garlic, thyme, and rosemary to the pan. Spoon the melted herb butter over the medallions continuously to infuse flavor and keep the meat moist.
5. Rest the meat: Remove the medallions from the skillet and transfer them to a warm plate. Cover loosely with foil and let rest for 5 minutes to redistribute juices.
6. Make the mushroom sauce (optional): In the same skillet, add a little more butter if needed and sauté the shallots and mushrooms until soft, about 4-5 minutes. Pour in the red wine and beef stock, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Simmer until the sauce reduces and thickens, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
7. Serve: Plate the elk medallions and drizzle the mushroom sauce over the top or serve on the side. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.

Tips & Variations

To keep elk medallions tender, avoid overcooking them; medium-rare is ideal. Using a meat thermometer, aim for an internal temperature of 130-135°F (54-57°C).

For a smoky flavor, try grilling the medallions over charcoal or wood chips. Marinate the elk beforehand in a mixture of balsamic vinegar, garlic, and juniper berries for an added depth of flavor.

If mushrooms aren’t your preference, substitute the sauce with a creamy mustard sauce or a berry reduction using cranberries or blackberries for a touch of sweetness.

Vegetarian friends might enjoy a similar sauce over grilled portobello mushrooms—check out some fantastic vegetarian recipes like Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious for inspiration.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Elk medallions pair beautifully with a variety of sides. For a hearty meal, serve them alongside garlic mashed potatoes or roasted root vegetables like carrots and parsnips.

Fresh green beans or sautéed spinach add a vibrant, healthy touch. Consider a wild rice pilaf to complement the gamey flavor with nutty undertones.

For a lighter option, a crisp salad with citrus vinaigrette balances the richness of the elk.

Pair your meal with a robust red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah to enhance the deep, meaty flavors.

More Recipes to Try

• Backpacking Dehydrated Vegan Meal Recipes for Easy Camping
• Chinese Vegetarian Nasi Lemak Recipe Made Easy and Delicious
• Veg Grilled Sandwich Recipes That Are Quick and Delicious

Conclusion

Elk medallions are a wonderful way to introduce a lean, flavorful game meat into your cooking repertoire. With their tender texture and rich taste, they elevate any meal with relatively little effort.

Following these recipes and tips ensures your elk is cooked to perfection every time, bursting with flavor and complemented by delicious sauces and sides.

Whether you’re impressing guests or enjoying a special dinner at home, elk medallions offer a gourmet experience that’s both healthy and satisfying. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different sauces and seasonings to find your favorite combination.

For those interested in exploring more unique and healthy meal ideas, be sure to check out our other recipes for inspiration and culinary delight.

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