Beef Stroganoff

Beef Stroganoff: A Classic Recipe with Flavorful Couscous

If you are looking for a dish that combines flavor with a creamy and aromatic texture, then Beef Stroganoff is the perfect choice. This recipe, with deep roots in culinary tradition, has won hearts worldwide due to its combination of tender meat, delicious mushrooms, and a rich sauce. Additionally, we have added flavorful couscous as a base to transform this meal into an unforgettable culinary experience.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients
- 300 g beef tenderloin or round
- 1 small onion
- 1 clove of garlic
- 150 g mushrooms (preferably champignon)
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 200 ml beef broth (or vegetable) or water
- 2 tablespoons sour cream
- Fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 100 g couscous
- 1 tablespoon butter for couscous

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the Couscous
Start by preparing the couscous according to the package instructions. Usually, it cooks quickly, requiring only hot water and a little time to fluff up. Once ready, add a tablespoon of butter, mix well, and season with salt and pepper. This couscous will add a note of flavor and a pleasant contrast to the meat.

2. Preparing the Meat
Wash the meat and cut it into long pieces about 5 cm long and 1 cm thick. This will ensure even cooking. Heat the oil and butter in a large skillet over high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the meat and fry for 2-3 minutes until nicely browned. It is important not to overcrowd the pan; if you have many pieces of meat, cook them in batches.

3. Sautéing the Onion and Mushrooms
Once the meat is cooked, remove it from the pan and keep it warm. Reduce the heat to medium and add the finely chopped onion. Sauté the onion until golden, then add the sliced mushrooms and chopped garlic. Sauté everything for 3-4 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and have released their juices.

4. Preparing the Sauce
In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with the beef broth (or water) until completely dissolved. Pour this mixture into the pan, stirring gently. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce thickens. This is the ideal time to add the sour cream, which will turn the sauce into a delicious cream. Season with salt and freshly ground pepper for added flavor.

5. Finalizing the Dish
Add the meat back into the pan and gently stir to combine all the ingredients. Let it heat for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

6. Serving
Serve Beef Stroganoff hot, over a bed of couscous. Don’t forget to garnish the plate with fresh basil leaves or chopped parsley. These will not only add a note of freshness but also an attractive visual aspect.

Useful Tips
- Calories and Nutritional Benefits: A serving of Beef Stroganoff with couscous contains approximately 450 calories, making it a nutritionally balanced meal, rich in protein and complex carbohydrates.
- Variations: If you want a vegetarian version, you can replace the meat with tofu or additional mushrooms. Additionally, couscous can be substituted with short pasta or noodles, depending on your preferences.
- Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use pork?: Sure, but the recipe will have a different taste. Make sure to cook the pork to a safe internal temperature.
- What type of sour cream is best?: Full-fat sour cream offers the best taste and creamy texture, but you can also use cooking cream with a lower fat content.
- How can I make the sauce spicier?: Add a little Worcestershire sauce or a few drops of Tabasco sauce for an extra flavor boost.

Serving Suggestions
Beef Stroganoff pairs wonderfully with a fresh vegetable salad or a side of steamed vegetables. Additionally, a glass of red wine or a fruit cocktail can be excellent accompaniments to complete this meal.

Beef Stroganoff is not just a recipe, but a culinary experience that brings family and friends together around the table. Don’t forget to share your recipe and impressions with your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!