Bear Steaks with Blackberry Balsamic Reduction

Ingredients:

• 4 bear steaks (about 6-8 oz each)
• 2 tbsp garlic & roasted chilis olive oil (or garlic mushroom olive oil for a milder option)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp dried rosemary

Blackberry Balsamic Reduction:

• ½ cup blackberry balsamic vinegar
• ½ cup fresh or frozen blackberries
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp butter (or olive oil for dairy-free)
• ½ tsp crushed red pepper (optional, for a little heat)

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Bear Steaks: Rub the steaks with garlic & roasted chilis olive oil, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and rosemary. Let them sit for 30 minutes at room temperature.
2. Prepare the Blackberry Balsamic Reduction:
   • In a small saucepan, combine blackberry balsamic, blackberries, honey, and garlic.
   • Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and reduces by half (about 7-10 minutes).
   • Strain (optional for a smooth sauce) and whisk in butter or olive oil.
3. Grill or Sear the Bear Steaks:
   • Heat a grill or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Cook steaks for about 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare (or longer for desired doneness).
   • Let rest for 5 minutes.
4. Serve: Drizzle the blackberry balsamic reduction over the bear steaks before serving.

Side Dishes to Pair with the Bear Steaks

To complement the rich and slightly gamey bear meat, these bright, tangy, and hearty sides work perfectly:

1. Sautéed Green Beans with Almonds & Lemon Olive Oil

A fresh, citrusy side with a crunch.

• Sauté trimmed green beans in lemon olive oil for 5 minutes.
• Toss with toasted almonds and a pinch of sea salt.

2. Balsamic Roasted Sweet Potatoes

The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes enhances the blackberry balsamic flavors.

• Toss cubed sweet potatoes with butter olive oil, sea salt, and a splash of blackberry balsamic vinegar.
• Roast at 400°F for 25-30 minutes until caramelized.

3. Wild Mushroom Risotto with Garlic Mushroom Olive Oil

Creamy and earthy, this side adds depth to the dish.

• Cook Arborio rice slowly with vegetable broth and white wine.
• Stir in sautéed wild mushrooms and finish with garlic mushroom olive oil.

4. Roasted Beets & Goat Cheese with Pomegranate Balsamic

Sweet, tangy, and creamy with a gorgeous color contrast.

• Roast diced beets at 375°F for 40 minutes.
• Toss with pomegranate balsamic vinegar and top with crumbled goat cheese.

5. Warm Quinoa Salad with Cranberry Orange Balsamic & Toasted Pecans

A nutty, fruity side that balances the bold bear meat flavors.

• Cook quinoa and mix with cranberry orange balsamic, pecans, and dried cranberries.