Classic Beef Stroganoff Recipe: Ingredients, Preparation, and Serving Tips

Beef Stroganoff Ingredients

• 1 tbsp of olive oil
• 1 onion, cut into pieces
• 1 clove of garlic
• 1 tbsp of butter
• 250g sliced mushrooms
• 1 tbsp plain flour to thicken sauce
• 500g sliced fillet steak
• 150g crème fraîche
• 1 tsp English mustard
• 100ml beef stock
• ½ small pack of chopped parsley

How to Make Beef Stroganoff

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a non-stick pan, add the sliced onion, and cook over medium heat for 15 minutes until soft. Add a splash of water if it starts to stick.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Butter

Add a crushed garlic clove and cook for 2-3 minutes, then add 1 tbsp of butter.

Step 3: Cook the Mushrooms

Add 250g of sliced mushrooms to the pan and cook for around 5 minutes until softened.

Step 4: Season and Remove from Pan

Season well, then transfer everything onto a plate.

Step 5: Prepare the Beef

Mix 1 tbsp of plain flour with salt and pepper in a small bowl and coat the sliced fillet steak in the mixture.

Step 6: Brown the Beef

Heat the pan and add the steak pieces. Fry for 3-4 minutes until well colored, adding a little oil if the pan looks dry.

Step 7: Combine Ingredients

Return the onions and mushrooms to the pan. Whisk together 150g crème fraîche, 1 tsp English mustard, and 100ml beef stock, then pour into the pan.

Step 8: Simmer and Serve

Cook over medium heat for 5 minutes, sprinkle with chopped parsley, and serve with pappardelle or rice.

What Is Beef Stroganoff? The History and Origins of a Classic Dish

Beef stroganoff is a traditional Russian dish from the 19th century, named after the Strogonov family. It originally featured sautéed beef in a creamy sauce with mustard and beef stock. Today, the recipe has evolved globally, with many variations adding ingredients like mushrooms and white wine.

What Cut of Beef Is Best for Stroganoff?

For a tender and flavorful stroganoff, fillet steak is ideal, though other cuts like rib-eye or sirloin can work well. Make sure the beef is sliced thinly for optimal texture.

What Goes Into Stroganoff Sauce?

Stroganoff sauce has a rich, tangy flavor, typically made with:

• Onions and garlic
• Crème fraîche or sour cream
• Mustard
• Beef stock

Paprika or brandy can be added for an extra depth of flavor.

Cooking Tips for Perfect Beef Stroganoff

Avoid Overcooking the Beef

Briefly brown the beef over high heat, then let it finish cooking in the sauce to avoid toughness.

Cook the Cream Slowly

Once the crème fraîche is added, cook on low to prevent curdling.

Freezing Stroganoff

Cool completely, place in an airtight container, and freeze for up to 30 days. Thaw in the fridge and reheat thoroughly.

How to Thicken Beef Stroganoff Sauce

• Coat beef in flour before cooking for a smooth sauce.
• Add a splash of stock if too thick, or mix 1 tbsp flour with 1 tbsp water/stock and stir in for more thickness.

What to Serve with Beef Stroganoff

• Carbs: Serve with mashed potatoes, fried potatoes, pappardelle, or egg noodles.
• Pickles and Slaws: Pickles or cabbage slaw add a nice acidity to balance the rich sauce.
• Extra Vegetables and Fresh Herbs: Garnish with parsley, thyme, or coriander. Roasted asparagus, broccoli, or peas make great additions.