Old Fashioned Beef Stroganoff Recipe

Beef stroganoff is a classic comfort dish that has been a favorite in kitchens around the world for generations. This dish combines tender strips of beef with a creamy mushroom sauce, typically served over egg noodles or rice.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of making an authentic old-fashioned beef stroganoff, including preparation techniques, tips for achieving the perfect texture and flavor, and various serving suggestions. Let’s dive in!

Preparation Steps

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Before starting to cook, it’s essential to prepare all your ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking process:

1. Beef: Trim any excess fat from the beef sirloin or tenderloin. Cut the beef into thin strips, about 1/2 inch wide. Season the beef with salt and pepper.
2. Vegetables: Clean and slice the mushrooms. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
3. Other Ingredients: Measure out the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, paprika, and sour cream. Make sure the sour cream is at room temperature, as this helps it blend smoothly into the sauce later.

Step 2: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil Water: Fill a large pot with water, add a generous pinch of salt, and bring it to a rolling boil.
2. Cook the Noodles: Add the egg noodles to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions until al dente (usually about 7-9 minutes). Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
3. Drain: Once cooked, drain the noodles and set them aside. Drizzle a little olive oil over them to prevent sticking if desired.

Step 3: Sear the Beef

1. Heat the Skillet: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, add the olive oil. Allow it to heat until it shimmers.
2. Brown the Beef: Add the seasoned beef strips to the hot skillet in a single layer. Avoid overcrowding the pan; you may need to cook the beef in batches. Sear the beef for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned but not fully cooked through. This step adds flavor and texture.
3. Remove the Beef: Using a slotted spoon, remove the beef from the skillet and place it on a plate. Set it aside while you cook the mushrooms and onions.

Step 4: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Cook the Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add the butter. Once melted, add the sliced mushrooms. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes until they are browned and have released their moisture.
2. Add Onions and Garlic: Once the mushrooms are cooked, add the chopped onion to the skillet. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 5: Create the Sauce

1. Deglaze the Pan: Pour in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet with a wooden spoon to release any browned bits. This step adds depth of flavor to the sauce.
2. Add Flavorings: Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
3. Return the Beef: Add the seared beef back to the skillet along with any juices from the plate. Allow it to simmer for about 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is cooked through and tender.
4. Incorporate the Sour Cream: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the room temperature sour cream until well combined. Avoid boiling the sauce after adding the sour cream to prevent curdling. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

1. Mix the Noodles: Add the cooked egg noodles to the skillet with the beef and sauce. Toss everything together gently to ensure the noodles are evenly coated in the creamy sauce.
2. Garnish and Serve: Transfer the stroganoff to a serving dish or individual plates. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and added freshness.
3. Enjoy: Serve the beef stroganoff hot, perhaps with a side of crusty bread or a light salad.

Tips for Perfect Beef Stroganoff

1. Cut the Beef Correctly: Always cut the beef against the grain to ensure tenderness. Thin strips will cook quickly and maintain juiciness.
2. Choose the Right Beef: While sirloin and tenderloin are excellent choices for beef stroganoff, you can also use flank steak or ribeye. Just be mindful of cooking times, as tougher cuts may require longer cooking.
3. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh mushrooms and herbs will elevate the flavor of your dish. Avoid canned mushrooms if possible.
4. Don’t Rush the Sauce: Allow the sauce to simmer gently to develop flavors. This is where the magic happens!
5. Adjust to Your Preference: Feel free to modify the sauce ingredients to suit your taste. Some prefer a tangier sauce, while others enjoy a richer flavor.

Variations of Beef Stroganoff

While the classic recipe is beloved, there are several variations of beef stroganoff that you can try:

1. Mushroom-Free Stroganoff

If you’re not a fan of mushrooms, you can substitute them with additional vegetables like bell peppers or spinach. Simply sauté them along with the onions.

2. Dairy-Free Version

To make a dairy-free beef stroganoff, use coconut cream or a dairy-free sour cream alternative. Ensure that the beef broth is also free from dairy ingredients.

3. Vegetarian Stroganoff

Replace the beef with sautéed tempeh or tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and add more vegetables like zucchini or carrots to create a hearty dish.

4. Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff

For a hands-off approach, combine the beef, onions, mushrooms, broth, and seasonings in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, then stir in the sour cream just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Beef stroganoff is delicious on its own, but pairing it with complementary dishes can enhance your meal. Here are some serving suggestions:

1. Crusty Bread

Serve with slices of fresh crusty bread or dinner rolls to soak up the creamy sauce.

2. Side Salad

A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich stroganoff.

3. Roasted Vegetables

Serve roasted seasonal vegetables on the side for added nutrition and flavor.

4. Mashed Potatoes

For a truly hearty meal, serve beef stroganoff over creamy mashed potatoes instead of egg noodles.

Storage and Reheating

Storage: Beef stroganoff can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before storing.

Freezing: If you’d like to freeze the stroganoff, it’s best to do so without the sour cream. Freeze the beef and mushroom mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop, adding the sour cream just before serving.

Reheating: To reheat leftover stroganoff, place it in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally and add a splash of beef broth or water if the sauce thickens too much.

Conclusion

Old-fashioned beef stroganoff is a timeless dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. With its rich flavors and creamy texture, it’s a family favorite that can easily be adapted to suit individual tastes. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, this classic recipe is sure to impress.

So gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy a plate of delicious homemade beef stroganoff. Happy cooking!

Yield: 4

Old Fashioned Beef Stroganoff Recipe

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Beef stroganoff is a classic comfort dish that has been a favorite in kitchens around the world for generations. This dish combines tender strips of beef with a creamy mushroom sauce, typically served over egg noodles or rice.

Prep Time 15 minutes

Cook Time 30 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef sirloin or tenderloin, thinly sliced into strips
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (button or cremini work well)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 ounces egg noodles (or pasta of choice)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Noodles:
   In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside, drizzling with a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking.
   
2. Brown the Beef:
   In a large skillet or frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium-high heat. Add the sliced beef in batches (to avoid overcrowding) and season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until browned on all sides but not fully cooked. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.
   
3. Sauté the Vegetables:
   In the same skillet, add another tablespoon of butter. Add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are soft and the mushrooms have released their moisture.
   
4. Create the Sauce:
   Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onions and mushrooms, stirring to combine and cook for an additional minute. Gradually pour in the beef broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Add Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard (if using), and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
   
5. Combine the Beef and Sauce:
   Return the browned beef to the skillet and stir to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until the beef is cooked through and tender.
   
6. Add the Sour Cream:
   Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the sour cream until fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
   
7. Serve:
   Serve the beef stroganoff over the cooked egg noodles. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Notes

• Meat Options: Feel free to use ground beef, flank steak, or even chicken for a different variation.
• Mushroom Choices: You can mix different types of mushrooms for more flavor and texture, such as shiitake or portobello.
• Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh garden salad.