Beef Stroganoff is a classic and comforting dish made with tender beef in a rich and creamy sauce, typically served with pasta or rice. The combination of beef, mushrooms, sour cream, and a splash of Worcestershire sauce creates a flavorful sauce that is savory, creamy, and incredibly satisfying.
Preparation, Cook, and Total Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Cuisine: Russian, Comfort Food
Ingredients
- 700g (1.5 lbs) beef (preferably sirloin or tenderloin)
- Olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt (plus extra for seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper (plus extra for seasoning)
- 1 stick (120g) butter
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 8 mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 2 cups (500ml) beef broth
- 1 tablespoon mustard (Dijon works best)
- 1 cup (250ml) sour cream
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Cherry tomatoes (optional, for garnish)
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
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Prepare the Beef
Start by cutting the 700g (1.5 lbs) of beef into thin strips or bite-sized cubes. Season the beef with salt and black pepper on both sides. -
Sear the Beef
In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the beef and sear it on all sides until browned (about 3-4 minutes). Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside. -
Cook the Vegetables
In the same pan, melt 1 stick (120g) of butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened and slightly golden. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and cook for another 4-5 minutes until they release their moisture and become tender. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly. -
Make the Sauce
Sprinkle 1 tablespoon of flour over the vegetables and stir to combine. Cook for about 1 minute, allowing the flour to absorb the butter and create a roux. Gradually pour in 2 cups (500ml) of beef broth while whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard and 1 teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly. -
Add the Sour Cream
Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in 1 cup (250ml) of sour cream. Mix until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. -
Combine Beef with Sauce
Return the seared beef to the skillet and stir it into the sauce. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes to ensure the beef is heated through and coated in the sauce. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little bit of the reserved pasta water to reach the desired consistency. -
Serve
Once the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened to your liking, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley for color and flavor. -
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Beef Stroganoff over a bed of cooked egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal. You can also serve it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.
Nutritional Information
- Serving size: 1 plate (approximately 1/4 of the recipe)
- Calories: 500
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 850mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 14g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Vitamin A: 8%
- Vitamin C: 15%
- Calcium: 6%
- Iron: 20%
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
The combination of beef and pasta is a classic in many cuisines, especially Italian. Beef and pasta dishes have been around for centuries, with each region adding its unique twist to the combination. This particular dish is inspired by Italian comfort food, where the richness of beef pairs beautifully with creamy sauces. The inclusion of Worcestershire sauce and mustard gives it a slight tang, adding depth and complexity to the flavor. Its popularity comes from being both hearty and versatile, satisfying a wide range of tastes.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
- Hearty and Satisfying: The tender beef and creamy sauce make for a filling and comforting meal.
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
- Full of Flavor: The combination of Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and sour cream creates a rich and flavorful sauce that pairs perfectly with the beef and pasta.
- Customizable: You can easily swap in different vegetables, use ground beef instead of steak, or switch up the type of pasta to make this recipe your own.
Health Benefits
- High in Protein: With beef as the main protein source, this dish provides a solid amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall health.
- Good Source of Vitamins: The vegetables in this dish, including onions, mushrooms, and parsley, are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that promote overall health.
- Provides Healthy Fats: The olive oil and butter provide healthy fats, which are essential for brain health and the absorption of fat-soluble vitamins.
Serving Suggestions
- With a Side Salad: Serve this dish with a light green salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the richness of the creamy sauce.
- Pair with Garlic Bread: Garlic bread or crusty baguette would be a great accompaniment to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Serve with Wine: A glass of red wine, such as a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, pairs perfectly with the beefy richness of this dish.
Cooking Tips
- Sear the Beef Properly: When browning the beef, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. If necessary, cook the beef in batches to get a nice sear.
- Use Full-Fat Sour Cream: For the best texture and flavor, use full-fat sour cream. Low-fat sour cream can result in a thinner sauce.
- Adjust the Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, simply add a little bit of the reserved pasta water or beef broth to loosen it up, or let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce.
- Season in Layers: Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go. This way, you ensure that every component of the dish is properly seasoned.
Variations to Try
- Add More Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or peas for extra color and nutrients.
- Use Ground Beef: If you prefer ground beef over steak, this recipe works great with that substitution.
- Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some chopped fresh chili for a spicy kick.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free pasta to make this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.
Conclusion
This Beef Stroganoff is a timeless dish that combines savory beef, creamy sauce, and comforting flavors into one hearty meal. With its rich taste and easy preparation, it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Whether served with pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.
10 Comprehensive FAQs
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Can I use ground beef instead of steak?
Yes, ground beef works well in this recipe. Just make sure to brown it properly and drain any excess fat before proceeding with the sauce. -
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Absolutely! You can use any type of pasta you prefer, such as penne, spaghetti, or fusilli. Just be sure to cook it according to the package instructions. -
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the beef and sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply heat it up and toss with freshly cooked pasta. -
Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?
For a low-carb option, substitute the pasta with zucchini noodles or another low-carb pasta alternative. -
Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes, you can freeze the beef and sauce. Just store it in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving. -
Can I use a dairy-free option for the sour cream?
Yes, you can substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free option such as coconut cream or a plant-based yogurt. -
Can I add cheese to the dish?
Yes, adding a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top would be a wonderful addition to this dish. -
How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you find the sauce is too thin, you can whisk in a bit more flour or cornstarch to thicken it, or let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce. -
Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, chicken works well in this dish. Use boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs and cook them in the same way as the beef. -
What type of beef is best for this recipe?
A tender cut of beef, such as sirloin or ribeye, works well in this dish. If using ground beef, choose a leaner cut to avoid too much fat.
Enjoy your comforting and flavorful Beef Stroganoff!