The directions for this traditional stew are somewhat free-form. “Depending on the abundance of the harvest,” says Patricia Michaels, “it might include wild celery, wild rice, and other vegetables, including our own corn and squash.” (Michaels’s brother-in-law provides dried wild turnips from North Dakota.) Feel free to improvise with your own favorite vegetables in the amounts you choose.
Serves approximately 22 people
7 pounds buffalo meat
1 pound wild rice
Vegetables (Michaels suggests corn, wild celery, and turnips; sweet potato or butternut squash, celery, and onions are also a nice combination)
Salt and herbs (oregano, marjoram, and basil are always nice), to taste
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Cut buffalo meat into good-size cubes, not too huge but not too small.
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Place in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add 2 tablespoons salt, or to taste.
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Bring to a rolling boil and cook for 30 minutes and then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 1 hour.
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Add wild rice and continue simmering for another 3 hours or until the meat is tender.
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During the cooking, add vegetables depending on the harvest and what is available.
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Add salt and herbs to taste.