Salmì di cervo is a traditional dish originating from the Valtellina valley. Although there are variations, the dish is usually made with a combination of venison, red wine, pancetta, carrots, onions, garlic, celery, butter, olive oil, and herbs and spices such as nutmeg, cloves, bay leaves, sage, rosemary, thyme, juniper berries, peppercorns, salt, and pepper.

Some recipes also use flour, tomatoes, pig blood, and mushrooms for extra flavor. The meat is cut into pieces and marinated in wine with the spices and herbs, carrots, onions, and garlic. The pancetta is sautéed in butter and olive oil, and the meat is browned in the same pan.

Nutmeg, cloves, and salt are added to the dish, while the drained vegetables from the marinade are cooked into a sauce that's blended and reduced. The dish is served hot and it's typically accompanied by polenta on the side.