Introduction
Beef Stroganoff is a traditional Russian dish that has gained worldwide popularity for its rich flavors and comforting texture. It consists of tender strips of beef cooked with mushrooms and onions, all enveloped in a creamy sauce, typically made with sour cream. This dish is often served over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 500 g (1 lb) beef sirloin or tenderloin, thinly sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 200 g (7 oz) mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button mushrooms work well)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (optional)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Cooked egg noodles or rice (for serving)
Instructions
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Prepare the Beef:
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil or butter over medium-high heat. Season the beef strips with salt and pepper. Once the oil is hot, add the beef to the skillet in batches to avoid overcrowding. Sear the beef for 2-3 minutes until browned but not fully cooked. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for another 5-6 minutes until the mushrooms are browned and tender.
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Make the Sauce:
- Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir to coat evenly. Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly.
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Combine Beef and Sauce:
- Reduce the heat to low and return the beef to the skillet. Stir in the sour cream and Dijon mustard (if using). Cook gently for an additional 5 minutes, just until the beef is heated through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve:
- Serve the Beef Stroganoff over cooked egg noodles or rice, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
Health Notes
- Beef Stroganoff can be high in calories and saturated fat due to the cream and beef. To make it lighter, consider using lean cuts of beef, low-fat sour cream, or Greek yogurt as a substitute for a healthier version.
Serving Suggestions
- Beef Stroganoff is best enjoyed warm, accompanied by a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for added nutrition and balance.
Tips
- Beef Selection: Choose tender cuts of beef, such as sirloin or tenderloin, for the best results. Slice the beef against the grain for more tenderness.
- Mushroom Varieties: Experiment with different types of mushrooms, such as shiitake or portobello, for varied flavors.
- Thickening the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a bit more flour mixed with water or cornstarch as a slurry.
- Storage: Leftover Stroganoff can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
