Easter celebrations are all about sharing hearty and satisfying meals with loved ones. Beef stroganoff fits the bill perfectly, offering:
- Comforting flavors: The creamy and savory sauce brings warmth to any gathering.
- Quick preparation: Spend more time with family and less time in the kitchen.
- Versatility: Pairs well with pasta, rice, or even mashed potatoes, making it adaptable to your preferences.
Ingredients for Beef Stroganoff
To make this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- 500g (1.1 lbs) Scotch fillet steak or boneless ribeye, sliced into strips
- 350g (12.3 oz) Swiss brown mushrooms, sliced
- 1 medium brown onion, diced
- 140g (3/4 cup) sour cream
- 375ml (1.5 cups) beef stock
- 2 tbsp (28g) unsalted butter
- 1 tbsp (20g) Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp sea salt flakes
- 1 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/3 cup (80ml) brandy (or white wine/beef stock as a substitute)
- 1.5 tbsp (24g) plain flour
Optional Ingredients for Garnish:
- Fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
- Extra cracked black pepper
Side Suggestions:
- Pappardelle pasta, mashed potatoes, steamed rice, or roasted vegetables.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef
Start with 500g of Scotch fillet steak. Place the steaks on a clean surface and tenderize them with a meat mallet. This step softens the fibers, ensuring the beef is tender.
- Pro Tip: Leave some fat on the steak for enhanced flavor.
- Slice the beef into strips about 1 to 1.5 cm thick. Avoid slicing too thin to prevent overcooking.
2. Slice the Mushrooms and Onions
- Take 350g of Swiss brown mushrooms and slice them into even, thick pieces. Uniformity ensures even cooking.
- Dice one medium brown onion finely.
3. Sear the Beef
- Heat a large pan over high heat and add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Once the butter starts browning, add half the sliced beef.
- Spread the beef strips evenly and sear for 45 seconds on each side. Remove the beef and set it aside.
- Repeat with the remaining beef if necessary.
- Pro Tip: Avoid overcrowding the pan to achieve a perfect sear.
4. Sauté the Onions and Mushrooms
- In the same pan, add 2 more tablespoons of butter and sauté the diced onion for 2 minutes. This helps deglaze the pan, incorporating the beef’s flavor into the sauce.
- Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5 minutes, stirring regularly.
- Chef’s Note: Mushrooms may absorb moisture initially but will release it as they cook.
5. Build the Sauce
- Add 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, 1 teaspoon of sea salt flakes, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper to the pan. Mix well.
- Pour in 1/3 cup of brandy (or a substitute) and reduce the heat to medium. Cook for 2 minutes to deglaze the pan.
- Add 375ml of beef stock, 1.5 tablespoons of plain flour, and 15ml of Worcestershire sauce. Stir until the sauce thickens.
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6. Combine the Ingredients
- Reduce the heat to low. Add 140g of sour cream and the seared beef back into the pan.
- Stir gently until the sour cream is fully incorporated, giving the sauce a smooth, silky texture.
- Simmer for 5 minutes over low heat.
Serving Suggestions
Beef stroganoff is versatile and pairs well with various sides. Here are some ideas:
- Pappardelle Pasta: Coat the pasta in the sauce for a classic pairing.
- Mashed Potatoes: The creamy sauce complements buttery mashed potatoes.
- Steamed Rice: For a lighter option, serve over fluffy white rice.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add a touch of freshness with seasonal roasted veggies.
Tips for the Best Beef Stroganoff
- Choose Quality Beef: Opt for tender cuts like ribeye or sirloin for the best results.
- Don’t Skip Searing: Properly searing the beef locks in flavor and creates depth in the dish.
- Cook Mushrooms Thoroughly: Let them release their moisture before adding other ingredients.
- Low Heat for Sour Cream: Avoid high heat to prevent curdling.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
Variations to Try
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute beef with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable stock.
- Gluten-Free: Use cornstarch instead of flour to thicken the sauce.
- Dairy-Free: Replace sour cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream.
- Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of paprika or cayenne for extra heat.
Storage and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze for up to 6 months in a freezer-safe container.
- Reheating: Heat gently in a pan over low-medium heat to retain the creamy texture.
Why This Recipe is a Crowd-Pleaser
- Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes.
- Customizable: Adaptable to dietary preferences and ingredient availability.
- Elevated Flavor: The combination of beef, mushrooms, and creamy sauce is irresistible.
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- Meta Description: “Learn how to make beef stroganoff in just 30 minutes! Perfect for your Easter table, this easy recipe is creamy, delicious, and versatile.”
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Conclusion
Beef stroganoff is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience that brings comfort and joy to any occasion. Whether you’re hosting an Easter feast or simply looking for a quick and satisfying dinner, this recipe has you covered. Follow our step-by-step guide, incorporate our tips, and enjoy a dish that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Happy cooking and happy Easter!
Why Beef Stroganoff is Perfect for Easter
Description
This easy Beef Stroganoff recipe delivers tender beef strips smothered in a rich, creamy sauce, paired with mushrooms and onions. Perfect for weeknights or a festive holiday table, this dish is quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. Serve it over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal everyone will love
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