Beef Stroganoff

Beef Stroganoff – A Quick and Delicious Treat at Home

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

On a quiet evening, when you have guests or simply want to treat your loved ones to a special meal, Beef Stroganoff is the perfect choice. This classic recipe is a delicious combination of tender beef, juicy mushrooms, and a creamy sauce that blends both flavors and sophisticated texture. However, the recipe is simple and quick, making it ideal for any occasion.

A bit of history
Beef Stroganoff has its origins in Russian recipes but has gained popularity worldwide due to its exceptional taste and versatility. Over the years, numerous variations of the original recipe have emerged, but the essence remains the same: a combination of meat and creamy sauce that blends tradition with culinary innovation.

Essential ingredients:
- 800 g beef tenderloin (choose high-quality meat for a perfect result)
- 300 g mushrooms (champignon mushrooms are the most common, but you can experiment with shiitake or porcini mushrooms for added flavor)
- 1 large onion (a sweet onion will add a pleasant note to the dish)
- 100 ml sour cream (use high-fat sour cream for a creamier texture)
- 70 ml broth (tomato broth will enhance the sauce's flavor)
- 1 tablespoon flour (to thicken the sauce)
- 50 g mustard (choose a quality mustard with intense flavor)
- 30 ml oil (sunflower oil is ideal, but you can also use olive oil)
- 50 g butter (butter will add wonderful flavor)
- 50 ml brandy (optional, but will give a special taste)
- Salt, pepper, paprika (to season to taste)
- 2-3 cloves of garlic (optional, for added flavor)

Step by step in preparing Beef Stroganoff

1. Preparing the meat: Cut the beef tenderloin into thin slices, about 1 cm thick. This will allow the meat to cook evenly and remain tender. Season the meat slices with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika.

2. Preparing the mushrooms and onion: Clean and finely chop the onion. The mushroom slices should be thin so they cook quickly.

3. Heating the oil and butter: In a large skillet, heat the oil and butter over medium heat. When the butter has completely melted, add the meat slices. Fry them for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden. Then, transfer the meat to a deep dish.

4. Sautéing the onion and mushrooms: In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the mushroom slices and continue to cook until they are lightly browned.

5. Preparing the sauce: Sprinkle flour over the onion and mushroom mixture and mix well, allowing the flour to cook slightly. This step will help thicken the sauce.

6. Adding the wet ingredients: Pour in the broth and mix well to avoid lumps. Then, add the meat back to the skillet and cover with water (about 200 ml). Season again with salt and pepper to taste.

7. Boiling the meat: Cover the skillet with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for about 1 hour. Check occasionally and add water if the sauce becomes too thick.

8. Finalizing the sauce: Once the meat is tender, add the sour cream, mustard, and brandy. Mix well and let it simmer for another 15 minutes. If you choose to add garlic, now is the perfect time.

9. Preparing the mashed potatoes: While the Beef Stroganoff is cooking, you can prepare creamy mashed potatoes. Boil the potatoes in salted water, mash them, and mix with butter and milk until you achieve a smooth consistency.

10. Serving: Place a generous portion of mashed potatoes on each plate, then pour the Beef Stroganoff on top. You can garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a more appealing look.

Serving suggestions and combinations
Beef Stroganoff pairs perfectly with a dry red wine or a glass of brandy, which will highlight the rich flavors of the dish. You can also add a fresh green salad to balance the meal.

Tips and variations
If you want a lighter version, you can replace the sour cream with Greek yogurt or low-fat sour cream. You can also add vegetables such as carrots or peas for a touch of freshness.

Nutritional benefits
This recipe is rich in protein due to the beef, and mushrooms provide significant fiber and vitamins. Consumed in moderation, Beef Stroganoff can be a healthy choice for family meals.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use pork instead of beef?
Yes, you can use pork, but the cooking time will be shorter since pork cooks faster than beef.

2. What type of mushrooms are most suitable?
Champignon mushrooms are the most commonly used, but you can try shiitake or even porcini mushrooms for a more intense flavor.

3. Can I prepare Beef Stroganoff in advance?
Yes, this dish keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. We recommend reheating it over low heat to maintain the texture.

4. What else could I serve with this dish?
Besides mashed potatoes, you can serve Beef Stroganoff with pasta or rice, depending on your preferences.

In conclusion, Beef Stroganoff is a recipe that combines flavor, simplicity, and comfort, making it ideal for family meals or gatherings with friends. Don't hesitate to put your personal touch on the recipe and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!