Ever craved a meal that feels both indulgent and comforting but doesn't require hours in the kitchen? Beef Stroganoff is your answer. With its roots in 19th-century Russian cuisine, this dish has evolved into a staple in many households around the world, cherished for its rich, creamy sauce, tender beef strips, and perfectly sautéed mushrooms. Tonight, we're bringing this classic to your dinner table with an easy Beef Stroganoff recipe that promises to satisfy your cravings without demanding much of your time.
Ingredients for Beef Stroganoff
The beauty of this dish is its simplicity. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 lb. of beef sirloin or tenderloin, sliced into 1⁄2 inch strips
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 8 oz. mushrooms, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1⁄2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional for a tangier flavor)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Remember, the key to an exceptional Stroganoff is in the beef. Choosing the right cut ensures tenderness and flavor.
Step-by-Step Preparation
Follow these steps to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also straightforward:
1. Preparing the Beef
- Season the beef strips with salt and pepper.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef strips and sear until they are nicely browned, about 1-2 minutes per side. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same skillet, add the remaining oil. Add onions and sauté until they become translucent.
- Stir in the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown. Add garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Making the Sauce
- Sprinkle flour over the vegetables, stirring well to combine. Cook for about 1 minute to eliminate the raw flour taste.
- Slowly add the beef broth, whisking to avoid lumps. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low once boiling, and let the sauce simmer until it thickens, approximately 5 minutes.
- Stir in the sour cream and Dijon mustard (if using), ensuring the heat remains low to prevent the sour cream from curdling.
4. Combining Everything
- Return the seared beef to the skillet, along with any juices that have accumulated. Simmer gently for a few minutes until the beef is cooked through but still tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
Serving the Dish
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot over your choice of pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal.
💡 Note: To enhance the flavor, consider marinating the beef strips in a bit of oil, vinegar, and spices like garlic powder for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
⚠️ Note: Always keep the sauce on a low heat when adding sour cream to avoid curdling.
This easy Beef Stroganoff recipe is all about balancing flavors and textures to create a meal that's both comforting and sophisticated. From the richness of the sauce to the tender beef and the subtle sharpness of the Dijon mustard, each component plays its part. Whether it's a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is versatile and sure to impress. It encapsulates the warmth of home cooking with the finesse of a fine dining experience, ensuring you'll love this meal tonight and perhaps every night you choose to make it.
Can I make Beef Stroganoff with chicken?
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Absolutely! Substitute the beef with chicken breasts or thighs. Follow the same steps, adjusting cooking time since chicken cooks faster.
How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too runny?
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Mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water to form a slurry. Gradually add this to the sauce while stirring and continue cooking for a few minutes until it thickens.
Can I prepare Beef Stroganoff in advance?
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Yes, but for the best flavor and texture, avoid adding the sour cream until just before serving. The sauce can be made ahead, cooled, and then gently reheated before you add the beef and sour cream.
Is there a dairy-free version of this recipe?
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Swap out the sour cream for a coconut cream or a dairy-free cream alternative. It changes the flavor profile a bit but can work well in a pinch.
