Beef Stroganoff is a timeless comfort food that originated in Russia and has since become popular worldwide. This dish is all about tender strips of beef, savory mushrooms, and a rich, creamy sauce. It’s typically served over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, making it a versatile and hearty meal. The beauty of Beef Stroganoff lies in its simplicity and its perfect balance of flavors, from the tangy sour cream to the slight kick of Dijon mustard. This recipe will guide you through creating a delicious Beef Stroganoff that your whole family will love.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 700g / 1.5 lb boneless rib-eye steak, cut into strips
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 300g / 10oz mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cups / 500ml beef broth
• 3 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 3 tbsp sour cream
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Chopped chives (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Steak

1. Cut the Steak: Start by cutting the boneless rib-eye steak into thin strips, about 1/4-inch thick. This ensures quick and even cooking.
2. Season the Beef: Season the steak strips with salt and black pepper.

Step 2: Sear the Steak

1. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large skillet or pan, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the Beef: Add the steak strips in batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until the beef is browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

1. Sauté the Onions: In the same skillet, add the sliced onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and golden.
2. Add the Mushrooms: Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook for another 5 minutes until they release their moisture and become tender.

Step 4: Make the Sauce

1. Add Butter and Flour: Push the onions and mushrooms to the side of the skillet and melt 3 tablespoons of butter in the center. Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour to make a roux. Cook the roux for 2 minutes, stirring constantly, to eliminate the raw flour taste.
2. Pour in Beef Broth: Gradually add 2 cups of beef broth, whisking as you pour to ensure a smooth sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it thicken for about 5 minutes.

Step 5: Finish the Stroganoff

1. Stir in Mustard and Sour Cream: Lower the heat and stir in 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard and 3 tablespoons of sour cream. Mix until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
2. Return the Beef: Add the cooked steak strips back into the skillet and simmer for 2-3 minutes, just until the beef is heated through.

Step 6: Serve

1. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
2. Garnish: Sprinkle chopped chives over the top for a burst of fresh flavor and color.
3. Serve Hot: Serve the Beef Stroganoff over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Cooking Tips

• Choosing the Right Cut of Beef: Rib-eye steak is used in this recipe for its tenderness and flavor. You can also use sirloin or beef tenderloin for a leaner option.
• Cooking in Batches: When searing the beef, make sure to cook in batches. Overcrowding the pan will cause the beef to steam instead of sear, which will affect the texture.
• Balancing the Flavors: Dijon mustard and sour cream are key to this recipe’s tangy, creamy flavor. If you like more acidity, feel free to add a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of Worcestershire sauce.

Storage

• Refrigeration: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of beef broth if the sauce thickens too much.
• Freezing: Beef Stroganoff can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let the dish cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 10g
• Fat: 34g
• Fiber: 1g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 700mg

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! You can substitute the rib-eye steak with other cuts like sirloin, tenderloin, or even ground beef for a more affordable option. Just adjust the cooking time to ensure the meat remains tender.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely. Beef Stroganoff actually tastes better as the flavors meld together. You can make it ahead, refrigerate, and reheat gently before serving.

3. What side dishes go well with Beef Stroganoff?
Beef Stroganoff is traditionally served with egg noodles, but you can also serve it over mashed potatoes, rice, or even cauliflower mash for a low-carb option.

4. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend to make the roux. You can also thicken the sauce with cornstarch or arrowroot powder instead of flour.

5. Can I make it dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, replace the butter with a plant-based alternative, and use dairy-free sour cream. Ensure the beef broth does not contain any dairy additives.

Conclusion

Beef Stroganoff is a satisfying and comforting dish that’s full of flavor and warmth. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or to impress guests with its rich sauce and tender beef. The recipe is easy to follow and can be adapted to suit dietary needs and preferences. Whether served over noodles, rice, or potatoes, this creamy, savory dish is sure to become a favorite at your dinner table. Enjoy!