Craving a delicious, comforting meal that's surprisingly quick and easy to make? Look no further than this Beef Stroganoff and Rice recipe! This classic dish is a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a rich, savory sauce that perfectly coats tender beef strips and fluffy rice. It’s a fantastic option for busy weeknights, a satisfying weekend dinner, or even a special occasion meal. Forget takeout – this easy recipe will quickly become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 4-6 people. Adjust quantities as needed.
- 1 lb sirloin steak, thinly sliced against the grain
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup cremini mushrooms, sliced
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup dry sherry (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 cups cooked rice
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Beef
Start by dusting the sliced beef with flour, ensuring each slice is lightly coated. This helps thicken the sauce later. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This builds a flavorful base for the Stroganoff.
Step 3: Cooking the Beef and Mushrooms
Add the seasoned beef strips to the skillet and cook until browned, about 3-5 minutes. Don’t overcrowd the pan; work in batches if needed to ensure proper browning. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and soften, about 5 minutes more.
Step 4: Creating the Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the beef broth, sour cream, sherry (if using), Dijon mustard, and paprika. Pour this mixture into the skillet with the beef and mushrooms. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, reduce heat to low, and cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
Step 5: Serving
Serve the Beef Stroganoff over a bed of fluffy cooked rice. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
Tips for the Best Beef Stroganoff:
- Thinly sliced beef is key: This ensures quick cooking and tender results. Ask your butcher to slice it for you if needed.
- Don't overcook the beef: Overcooked beef will be tough. Aim for a tender, but still slightly pink, interior.
- Low and slow for the sauce: Simmering the sauce gently allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken without scorching.
- Taste and adjust seasoning: Before serving, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or Dijon mustard to your preference.
Variations:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or carrots to the Stroganoff.
- Use different mushrooms: Shiitake or oyster mushrooms would also be delicious in this recipe.
- Creamy variations: For a richer sauce, you can use heavy cream instead of or in addition to sour cream.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for a spicier kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 450-500 Protein: 30-35g Fat: 25-30g Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This healthy yet hearty meal is a great example of how delicious and easy healthy meals can be. Enjoy this quick dinner idea that's perfect for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend. This recipe is guaranteed to be added to your list of best recipes!