### **Large-Scale Venison & Wild Rice Casserole**
*(Serves 100)*
#### **Ingredients:**
- **25 lbs ground or diced venison** (lean, trimmed of excess fat)
- **12 cups uncooked wild rice blend** (or brown rice for a more economical option)
- **6 large onions, diced** (~8 cups)
- **4 heads garlic, minced** (~½ cup)
- **4 lbs mushrooms, sliced** (optional)
- **6 cups diced celery**
- **6 cups diced carrots**
- **4 cups butter or oil** (for cooking)
- **6 cups all-purpose flour** (for thickening)
- **6 quarts beef or venison stock** (or broth)
- **4 cups dry red wine** (optional, enhances flavor)
- **4 cups heavy cream or whole milk** (for richness)
- **2 cups Worcestershire sauce**
- **2 cups soy sauce**
- **½ cup dried thyme**
- **½ cup dried rosemary**
- **Salt & black pepper to taste**
- **4 lbs shredded cheese** (cheddar, Gruyère, or Parmesan for topping, optional)
- **4 cups breadcrumbs or crushed crackers** (for topping, optional)
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### **Instructions:**
#### **1. Cook the Rice:**
- Cook **12 cups of wild rice blend** in a large pot (or multiple pots) according to package instructions (usually 2:1 liquid-to-rice ratio). You’ll need about **24 cups (6 quarts) of water or stock** for this.
- Once cooked, spread rice on sheet pans to cool slightly.
#### **2. Brown the Venison:**
- In **large batches**, brown the **25 lbs of venison** in a skillet or roasting pan with a little oil. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Season with **salt, pepper, and Worcestershire sauce**. Set aside.
#### **3. Sauté Vegetables:**
- In a **very large pot or steam kettle**, sauté **onions, garlic, celery, carrots, and mushrooms** in **butter or oil** until softened.
- Stir in **flour** to make a roux, cooking for 3–5 minutes.
#### **4. Combine Everything:**
- Gradually whisk in **6 quarts of stock** and **red wine (if using)**. Bring to a simmer until thickened.
- Stir in **cooked venison, rice, cream, soy sauce, thyme, and rosemary**. Adjust seasoning with **salt & pepper**.
#### **5. Assemble & Bake (If Desired):**
- Divide mixture into **large hotel pans (or multiple casserole dishes)**.
- Top with **shredded cheese and breadcrumbs** if desired.
- Bake at **350°F (175°C)** for **20–30 minutes** until bubbly and golden (optional step).