Delicious Homemade Beef Stroganoff Recipe

 Beef Stroganoff is one of those comforting, timeless dishes that never fails to please. Rich, creamy, and full of hearty flavors, it's a meal designed for cozy dinners and sharing with loved ones. Originating in Russia, this dish has traveled far and wide, evolving into a global favorite with endless adaptations. Whether you grew up eating it at family dinners, or you're new to the magic of this recipe, Beef Stroganoff is a must-try in every cook's repertoire.

A Quick History of Beef Stroganoff

The origins of Beef Stroganoff trace back to mid-19th-century Russia. Named after the Stroganov family, a wealthy Russian dynasty, the dish initially combined thin strips of beef with a rich sour cream-based sauce. By blending traditional Russian ingredients with influences from French cooking (which was popular among aristocrats at the time), the recipe quickly became a culinary staple. Over the years, its fame spread beyond Russia, adopting regional ingredients and becoming a favorite in Europe and the United States.

Today, Beef Stroganoff can be as classic or creative as you'd like. From serving it over egg noodles to rice or mashed potatoes, every variation brings something delightful to the table.

Ingredients

To make a mouthwatering Beef Stroganoff that serves 4 people, you'll need:

For the Stroganoff:

• 1 lb (500g) beef sirloin or tenderloin, cut into thin strips
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 oz (225g) button mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup (240ml) beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish

For serving:

• 12 oz (340g) wide egg noodles, cooked
• Optional sides: steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

1. Pat the beef strips dry with a paper towel and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Add the beef in small batches to avoid overcrowding, and sear each side for about 1-2 minutes until browned but not overcooked. Transfer to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

1. Reduce the heat to medium and add the butter to the same skillet.
2. Once melted, add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent.
3. Add the garlic and mushrooms, cooking for another 5-7 minutes until the mushrooms are browned and have released their liquid.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

1. Sprinkle the flour over the onion-mushroom mixture and stir well to coat.
2. Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring to eliminate lumps, followed by the Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce.
3. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly. This should take about 5 minutes.

Step 4: Add Sour Cream and Beef

1. Turn the heat to low and stir in the sour cream. Mix gently until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
2. Return the beef (along with any juices from the plate) to the skillet and stir to coat. Cook for 2-3 minutes, just until the beef is warmed through. Avoid overcooking.

Step 5: Serve

1. Spoon the Beef Stroganoff over freshly cooked egg noodles.
2. Garnish with chopped parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. Serve immediately, and enjoy!

Tips for Success

• Cut the beef properly: For tender bites, slice the beef against the grain into thin strips. This makes a noticeable difference in texture.
• Avoid curdling the sauce: When adding sour cream, lower the heat and stir gently. If the heat is too high, the sour cream might separate.
• Use quality beef: Opt for tender cuts like sirloin, tenderloin, or ribeye for the best results. Tougher cuts might require longer cooking to become tender.

Variations to Try

• Gluten-Free: Replace all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or skip the flour altogether and simmer longer to reduce the sauce.
• Low-Carb/Keto: Swap egg noodles for zucchini noodles (zoodles) or cauliflower rice.
• Vegetarian: Substitute the beef with hearty mushrooms like portobello or lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
• Dairy-Free Option: Replace sour cream with a plant-based alternative, such as cashew cream or coconut yogurt.

Beef Stroganoff is a dish that's perfect whether you're cooking for a special occasion or just a weeknight treat. It's classic comfort food that bridges the gap between simple and indulgent. Invite your family or friends over, roll up your sleeves, and enjoy the process of making (and devouring) this delicious recipe!