VENISON MEDALLIONS WITH JUNIPER AND ORANGE

Venison Medallions with Juniper and Orange image

Provided by Paul Flynn

Yield Makes 8 servings

Number Of Ingredients 16

For butter
7 tablespoons Irish butter such as Kerrygold, softened*
1 tablespoon drained green peppercorns in brine, coarsely chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
1 teaspoon freshly squeezed orange juice
1 teaspoon honey
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
For venison
1 cup olive oil
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon orange zest (from 2 oranges)
4 sprigs fresh sage, minced
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
16 juniper berries, crushed with the backside of a knife
16 (3 1/2-ounce) venison medallions (each about 1/2- to 3/4-inch thick)**
*Available at specialty foods shops. If unavailable, substitute regular unsalted butter and add 1 additional teaspoon kosher salt.
**Available at www.dartagnan.com.

Steps:

Make butter:
In food processor, combine all ingredients and pulse until well combined. Transfer to large sheet of wax paper and roll into 5-inch-long log. Wrap in wax paper and refrigerate at least 1 hour to allow flavors to develop.
Make venison:
In large glass baking dish, whisk together olive oil, orange zest, sage, pepper, and juniper berries. Add venison medallions and turn to coat. Let stand at room temperature at least 1 hour, turning meat occasionally.
Over moderate heat, heat large heavy skillet until hot. Add 4 venison medallions and cook until undersides are well browned, about 3 minutes. Turn over and cook to desired doneness (thermometer inserted into center will register 120°F for medium-rare), about 2 to 3 minutes for medium-rare. Transfer to platter and cover loosely with foil. Repeat with remaining medallions, cooking 4 at a time. Slice log of butter into 8 coins. Divide medallions among 8 plates and top each serving with 1 coin. Serve immediately.