Ultimate Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Description
Beef Stroganoff is a beloved dish with a rich, creamy sauce and tender strips of beef, typically served over noodles or rice. This hearty meal, originating from Russia, has become a staple comfort food around the world. Its blend of savory flavors and creamy texture makes it a perfect choice for family dinners and special occasions alike. This recipe will guide you through creating a delicious Beef Stroganoff that is sure to impress.
The key to an exceptional Beef Stroganoff lies in the quality of the ingredients and the care taken in preparation. By using tender beef, fresh mushrooms, and a flavorful sauce, you can create a dish that is both satisfying and memorable. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe will help you achieve a restaurant-quality meal at home.
Ingredients – Beef Stroganoff Recipe
- 1 ½ pounds (680g) beef sirloin, cut into thin strips
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces (225g) mushrooms, sliced
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups (480ml) beef broth
- 1 cup (240ml) sour cream
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Egg noodles or rice (for serving)
Detailed Ingredient Information
Let’s break down the ingredients to understand their roles in this delicious recipe:
- Beef Sirloin: A tender cut of beef that cooks quickly and stays juicy. Cutting it into thin strips ensures even cooking.
- Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the beef and vegetables, adding a light flavor and helping to create a golden-brown crust.
- Onion and Garlic: These aromatics form the base of the sauce, adding depth and complexity to the dish.
- Mushrooms: Add an earthy flavor and meaty texture that complements the beef.
- All-Purpose Flour: Thickens the sauce, giving it a luxurious, creamy consistency.
- Beef Broth: Provides a rich, savory foundation for the sauce. Use low-sodium broth if you prefer to control the salt content.
- Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang, balancing the richness of the beef.
- Dijon Mustard: Enhances the flavor with a subtle tanginess and complexity.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a deep, umami flavor that rounds out the sauce.
- Butter: Enriches the sauce and enhances the overall flavor.
- Fresh Parsley: Adds a fresh, bright note as a garnish.
- Egg Noodles or Rice: Serve the Beef Stroganoff over these to complete the meal.
Instructions Step-by-Step for Ultimate Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Begin by cutting the beef sirloin into thin strips, about 1/4 inch thick.
- Slice the mushrooms and finely chop the onion and garlic.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan.
- Cook the beef until browned on all sides, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook until they are browned and have released their moisture, about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables in the skillet. Stir well to coat the vegetables evenly.
- Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Once the sauce has thickened, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the sour cream, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix until well combined.
Step 5: Combine and Finish
- Return the cooked beef to the skillet, along with any accumulated juices. Stir to coat the beef in the sauce.
- Let the mixture simmer gently for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the butter until melted and incorporated.
Step 6: Serve
- Cook the egg noodles or rice according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Serve the Beef Stroganoff over the cooked noodles or rice. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
Tips and Variations for Beef Stroganoff Recipe
- Beef Options: You can use other tender cuts of beef like tenderloin or ribeye if preferred. Adjust cooking times as needed.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the beef with extra mushrooms or use a meat substitute like seitan or tofu for a vegetarian version.
- Sauce Variations: Add a splash of white wine to the sauce for added depth of flavor. Alternatively, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a tangier sauce.
- Herb Enhancements: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or tarragon to add unique flavor profiles to the dish.
- Creamier Sauce: For an extra creamy sauce, stir in a tablespoon of cream cheese along with the sour cream.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Preparation and Cooking Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
This quick and satisfying recipe can be ready in under an hour, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute entertaining.
Nutritional Information
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 1g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 30g
These nutritional values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
Curiosities and Historical Facts about Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Beef Stroganoff has its origins in 19th century Russia and is named after the influential Stroganov family. The first known recipe for Beef Stroganoff appeared in a Russian cookbook in the mid-1800s. The dish gained popularity for its simplicity and rich flavor, making it a favorite among Russian nobility.
The traditional Russian version of Beef Stroganoff was made with sautéed beef cubes, mustard, and a small amount of sour cream, and was often served with potato straws. Over time, the recipe evolved, and variations appeared across Europe and America. The dish became especially popular in the United States during the mid-20th century, where it was commonly served over egg noodles and included mushrooms and onions.
The global popularity of Beef Stroganoff can be attributed to its adaptability and comforting nature. Each region has its unique twist on the recipe, reflecting local ingredients and culinary traditions. For example, in Sweden, it’s often served with pickles and mashed potatoes, while in Brazil, it’s common to find it made with chicken or shrimp instead of beef.
Additional Uses for Beef Stroganoff Recipe
Beef Stroganoff is not only a delicious main course but also versatile enough to be used in various other dishes. Here are a few ideas:
Beef Stroganoff Pie
Transform your leftover Beef Stroganoff into a savory pie. Simply place the mixture in a pie crust, cover with a second crust, and bake until golden brown.
Stroganoff Stuffed Peppers
Fill bell peppers with Beef Stroganoff and bake until the peppers are tender. This makes for a delicious and visually appealing dish.
Stroganoff Soup
Turn your Beef Stroganoff into a comforting soup by adding beef broth and extra vegetables like carrots and celery. Serve with crusty bread for a hearty meal.
Stroganoff Casserole
Mix Beef Stroganoff with cooked pasta, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly. This makes for an easy and satisfying casserole that the whole family will love.
Stroganoff Tacos
Use the Beef Stroganoff as a filling for soft tacos. Top with fresh vegetables, cheese, and a dollop of sour cream for a unique twist on traditional tacos.