Beef Stroganoff is a beloved classic that has stood the test of time, offering a comforting, creamy, and savory dish perfect for family dinners or special occasions. This traditional Russian dish, typically made with sautéed pieces of beef served in a sauce with sour cream, has evolved over the years. One popular variation that simplifies the process and enhances the creamy texture involves using cream of mushroom soup. This article will guide you through the steps to make a delicious Beef Stroganoff with cream of mushroom soup, providing tips and tricks to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.
Ingredients for Beef Stroganoff with Cream of Mushroom Soup
To make this comforting classic, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound of beef sirloin or tenderloin: Cut into thin strips.
- 1 can (10.5 ounces) of cream of mushroom soup: This serves as the base for the creamy sauce.
- 1 cup of sour cream: Adds richness and tanginess to the dish.
- 1 medium onion: Finely chopped.
- 2 cloves of garlic: Minced.
- 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce: Adds depth of flavor.
- 1 cup of beef broth: Enhances the beefy flavor of the dish.
- 2 tablespoons of all-purpose flour: For thickening the sauce.
- 2 tablespoons of butter: For sautéing the beef and onions.
- Salt and pepper: To taste.
- Egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes: For serving.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish (optional).
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Beef:
- Start by cutting the beef into thin strips. Season the strips with salt and pepper to taste.
- In a large skillet or frying pan, melt the butter over medium-high heat. Once the butter is hot, add the beef strips in a single layer. Cook the beef for about 2-3 minutes on each side, until it is browned. Remove the beef from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the onions are translucent and fragrant. If needed, add a little more butter to the skillet to prevent sticking.
- Make the Sauce:
- Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Cook for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
- Gradually add the beef broth, stirring continuously to combine with the flour mixture. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook until it thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the Cream of Mushroom Soup and Worcestershire Sauce:
- Stir in the can of cream of mushroom soup and the Worcestershire sauce. Mix well to combine. Allow the mixture to come to a gentle simmer.
- Combine the Beef and Sauce:
- Return the browned beef strips to the skillet, along with any juices that may have accumulated. Stir to coat the beef with the sauce. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Incorporate the Sour Cream:
- Just before serving, stir in the sour cream. Mix well until the sauce is smooth and creamy. Be careful not to let the sauce boil after adding the sour cream, as this can cause it to curdle.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Serve the Beef Stroganoff over cooked egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired, for a touch of color and freshness.
Tips for Perfect Beef Stroganoff
- Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Tender cuts like sirloin or tenderloin work best for this dish, as they cook quickly and remain tender. Avoid tougher cuts, which require longer cooking times to become tender.
- Avoid Overcooking the Beef: Cook the beef just until browned. Overcooking can make the beef tough.
- Use Full-Fat Sour Cream: For the creamiest sauce, use full-fat sour cream. Lower-fat versions can result in a less creamy texture.
- Don’t Boil the Sauce After Adding Sour Cream: Boiling can cause the sour cream to curdle. Keep the heat low to maintain a smooth, creamy sauce.
- Customize Your Dish: Feel free to add mushrooms, bell peppers, or other vegetables to the dish for added flavor and nutrition.
Beef Stroganoff with cream of mushroom soup is a delicious and comforting meal that brings together the rich flavors of beef, mushrooms, and a creamy sauce. This version simplifies the classic recipe by using cream of mushroom soup, making it accessible for home cooks while still delivering a satisfying and flavorful dish. By following the step-by-step instructions and tips provided, you can create a mouthwatering Beef Stroganoff that will become a family favorite. Enjoy this hearty dish over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, and savor the comforting flavors of this timeless classic.