Real Beef Stroganoff

Beef Stroganoff is a classic dish that often gets a bad reputation due to poorly executed versions. However, when made with care and quality ingredients, it can be a truly delicious and comforting meal. This recipe offers a quick and easy take on Beef Stroganoff, perfect for those times when you want a satisfying meal in 30 minutes or less. Tender pieces of beef, sautéed onions, and optional mushrooms and tomatoes are cooked in a creamy and flavorful sauce. Serve it over buttered egg noodles, plain rice, or with bread for a satisfying meal that will leave you wanting more. Don’t hesitate to use alternative cuts of meat like boneless veal or pork shoulder or veal round. Get ready to enjoy a delightful and speedy Beef Stroganoff.

MAKES: 4 servings

TIME: 30 minutes or less

INGREDIENTS:

• 3 tablespoons butter
• 2 large onions, sliced
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 8 ounces mushrooms, trimmed and sliced (optional)
• 1 1/2 to 2 pounds beef tenderloin (filet mignon) or sirloin, cut into 1- to 1 1/2-inch chunks
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 plum tomatoes (canned are fine), chopped, or 1/2 cup good tomato sauce (optional)
• 1 cup beef or chicken stock
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• Chopped fresh dill or parsley leaves for garnish

INSTRUCTIONS:

1. Put the butter in a large, deep skillet with a lid or a Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Once the butter has melted, add the sliced onions and, if using, the mushrooms. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onions are very soft but not browned, which should take about 10 minutes.
3. Add the beef chunks to the skillet and cook for just a minute, stirring to ensure even cooking.
4. Stir in the Dijon mustard and, if using, the chopped tomatoes or tomato sauce. Add the beef or chicken stock to the skillet and adjust the heat so the mixture is simmering steadily but not violently. Cook until the meat is tender, which should take about 5 minutes.
5. If desired, you can make the dish in advance up to this point. Simply cover and refrigerate for up to a day before reheating and finishing.
6. Stir in the sour cream, taste the sauce, and adjust the seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish the Beef Stroganoff with chopped fresh dill or parsley leaves.
8. Serve the dish hot, either over buttered egg noodles, plain rice, or with bread on the side.

TIPS:

• For tender and flavorful beef, use cuts like beef tenderloin (filet mignon) or sirloin.
• If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute the beef with mushrooms or tofu for a delicious meat-free Stroganoff.
• Customize the dish by adding your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or peas for added texture and flavor.
• To enhance the sauce, you can deglaze the pan with a splash of red wine or brandy before adding the stock.
• Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. Consider adding herbs like thyme or paprika for additional depth of flavor.
• Be cautious when adding sour cream to prevent curdling. Stir it in at the end over low heat or off the heat entirely.
• If you’re making the dish in advance, store the Stroganoff and the noodles or rice separately to prevent them from becoming mushy.
• Garnish the finished dish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh dill or parsley for a vibrant and fresh touch.
• Serve with a side of pickles or a fresh salad to balance out the richness of the Stroganoff.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated and reheated the next day, but note that the sauce may thicken upon refrigeration. Add a splash of stock or cream when reheating to adjust the consistency.

Enjoy the rich and creamy flavors of this quick and easy Beef Stroganoff. It’s a classic dish made simple and satisfying for a delightful meal in no time.