Beef Stroganoff is a timeless comfort dish that has graced tables around the world for generations. This classic recipe features tender strips of beef enveloped in a rich, creamy mushroom sauce, traditionally served over egg noodles or rice. Follow this comprehensive guide to recreate this beloved meal in your own kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Authentic Flavor: This recipe stays true to the traditional preparation, delivering a depth of flavor that is both nostalgic and satisfying.
- Comforting and Hearty: The combination of tender beef, savory mushrooms, and creamy sauce makes for a filling and comforting meal.
- Family-Friendly: Its classic taste appeals to all ages, making it a perfect choice for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef sirloin or tenderloin, trimmed and cut into thin strips (about ½ inch wide)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 8 oz mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 cup sour cream, at room temperature
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Egg noodles or rice, for serving
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Season the beef strips with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Ensure all other ingredients are measured and ready for use.
- Cook the Egg Noodles:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
- Add the egg noodles and cook according to the package instructions until al dente, typically 7-9 minutes.
- Drain the noodles and set aside. Optionally, drizzle with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Sear the Beef:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Add the seasoned beef strips in a single layer, avoiding overcrowding. Sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned but not fully cooked through. You may need to do this in batches.
- Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, add the sliced mushrooms.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are browned and have released their moisture.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté for another 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Create the Sauce:
- Pour in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits.
- Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Return the seared beef to the skillet along with any accumulated juices. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the beef is cooked through and tender.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the room temperature sour cream until well combined. Avoid boiling to prevent curdling.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Combine and Serve:
- Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet, gently tossing to ensure they are evenly coated with the sauce.
- Transfer to a serving dish or individual plates.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.
- Serve hot, perhaps accompanied by crusty bread or a light salad.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
- Preparation Time: About 20 minutes.
- Cooking Time: Approximately 30 minutes.
- Total Time: Around 50 minutes.
Variations
- Protein Alternatives: Substitute the beef with chicken or pork strips for a different take on the classic dish.
- Vegetarian Option: Replace the meat with hearty vegetables like portobello mushrooms or tofu to create a vegetarian version.
- Flavor Enhancements: Add a splash of brandy or white wine during the deglazing step to deepen the flavor profile.
- Herb Additions: Incorporate fresh herbs such as thyme or dill for an aromatic twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Allow the beef stroganoff to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened. Stir occasionally until warmed through. Avoid boiling to prevent the sauce from curdling.
FAQs
What cut of beef is best for stroganoff?
Tender cuts like sirloin or tenderloin are ideal due to their quick cooking time and tenderness.
Can I make beef stroganoff ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to maintain the sauce’s consistency.
Is it possible to freeze beef stroganoff?
While you can freeze it, the texture of the sour cream-based sauce may change upon thawing. If you plan to freeze, consider adding the sour cream after reheating.
What can I use instead of sour cream?
Greek yogurt or crème fraîche can be used as substitutes, offering a similar tangy flavor.
How can I prevent the sauce from curdling?
Avoid boiling the sauce after adding sour cream. Gentle simmering and stirring help maintain a smooth consistency.
Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes, after searing the beef and sautéing the aromatics, transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
What side dishes pair well with beef stroganoff?
Traditional pairings include egg noodles or rice. Steamed vegetables or a simple green salad also complement the dish.
How can I thicken the sauce if it’s too thin?
Simmer the sauce longer to reduce it, or create a slurry with a teaspoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water and stir it into the sauce.
Is beef stroganoff gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a thickener and ensure all other ingredients, like broth and mustard, are gluten-free.
Can I add wine to the recipe?
Yes, deglazing the pan with a splash of white wine after sautéing the mushrooms can add depth to the flavor.
Conclusion
This old-fashioned Beef Stroganoff recipe offers a delightful blend of tender beef and creamy mushroom sauce, making it a comforting meal suitable for any occasion. With its straightforward preparation and versatile variations, it’s sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the rich flavors and satisfying textures of this classic dish with your loved ones.
Print
Old-Fashioned Beef Stroganoff
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing and Simmering
- Cuisine: Russian
Description
Old-Fashioned Beef Stroganoff is a timeless classic featuring tender beef strips in a rich, creamy mushroom sauce. Served over egg noodles or rice, this comforting dish is perfect for family dinners or special occasions.
Ingredients
- 1 lb beef sirloin or tenderloin, trimmed and cut into thin strips
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 cup sour cream, at room temperature
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Egg noodles or rice, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Season beef strips with salt and pepper. Measure and prepare all other ingredients.
- Cook the Egg Noodles: Boil noodles until al dente, drain, and set aside.
- Sear the Beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet. Sear beef strips in batches for 2-3 minutes on each side. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: Melt butter in the skillet. Add mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes. Stir in onion and cook until translucent. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Make the Sauce: Add beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and paprika. Simmer gently, scraping browned bits.
- Combine and Simmer: Return beef to skillet, simmer 5-7 minutes until tender. Reduce heat and stir in sour cream. Avoid boiling.
- Serve: Toss noodles in sauce or serve stroganoff over noodles. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
- Substitute beef with chicken, pork, or tofu for variety.
- Add brandy or white wine for extra depth of flavor.
- Use gluten-free alternatives for a GF version.
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