Venison refers to the meat of a deer, most commonly roe and red in the UK. It is classed as game and can either be farm or park reared. Venison is a red meat, similar to beef but leaner and with a slightly richer taste. It is increasingly popular in the UK for its distinctive flavour and high protein content, becoming widely available in supermarkets and butchers.

Due to the meat’s lean qualities quick cooking tends to work better, and the meat can be served pink. Vivek Singh coats his Venison steaks in Rajasthani spices in his wonderful easy curry recipe, while Adam Gray serves his Roast venison loin with parsnip purée and a golden mushroom pie.

Josh Eggleton’s Venison burger recipe is a wonderful blend of venison mince and spices, served with chunky homemade chips and pickle. For a rewarding culinary challenge, try your hand at home charcuterie with Emily Watkins’ Venison salami.