What is Beef Stroganoff? A Comforting Classic Explained

Beef stroganoff is a hearty and comforting Russian dish that has become popular around the world. With its tender beef savory sauce and starchy noodles, it’s no wonder it’s a crowd-pleaser. But what exactly is beef stroganoff, and where did it come from? Let’s take a closer look at this delicious staple.

A Brief History

Beef stroganoff has its origins in 19th century Russia. It is named after the aristocratic Stroganov family, but there are different theories about who exactly invented it. Some sources say it was created by a French chef working for the Stroganovs. Others credit Count Pavel Stroganov, who was said to have a chef who came up with the dish when faced with frozen Siberian beef that could only be cut into strips.

The first published recipe for “beef stroganina” appeared in a Russian cookbook in 1871. It called for prepared mustard, broth, and a bit of sour cream – no mushrooms or onions. Recipes evolved over the years, with later versions adding tomatoes, onions, mushrooms, and different cuts of beef.

The dish gained worldwide fame after being served in elite restaurants before World War I. It later became a staple in Chinese restaurants and spread to Hong Kong in the 1950s. In the 1960s, American companies started selling packets of dried stroganoff mix, making it convenient for home cooks.

The Classic Ingredients

While recipes vary, beef stroganoff has some key ingredients that define the dish:

• Beef – Usually a tender, quick-cooking cut like ribeye, strip steak, or tenderloin that is cut into strips The beef is seared for flavor then briefly simmered in sauce

• Onions – Sliced yellow onions lend flavor to the sauce.

• Mushrooms – Especially button and portobello mushrooms, which add an earthy note.

• Sour cream – This is stirred in at the end to give the sauce a rich, tangy creaminess.

• Mustard – Dijon or whole grain mustard adds zing.

• Beef broth – Provides savory flavor to the sauce.

• Flour – Thickens the sauce slightly.

• Egg noodles – The stroganoff is classically served over flat egg noodles.

How It’s Made

To make beef stroganoff, you’ll first want to prepare your ingredients – dice the onions, slice the beef and mushrooms, measure out the liquids and seasonings.

Then, you’ll cook the beef over high heat until browned but still rare inside, remove it to a plate, and cook the onions and mushrooms in the beef fat until tender and browned.

Next, a roux is made with butter and flour to thicken the sauce. The broth, mustard, and other seasonings are stirred in, followed by the beef and any accumulated juices.

Finally, the sour cream is stirred in just before serving. The stroganoff is dished over buttered egg noodles.

Variations Around the World

While the Russian version focuses on the beef, onions, mushrooms, and sour cream, beef stroganoff has taken on different forms around the world:

• In France, recipes often include paprika and tomatoes.

• Japanese stroganoff may call for soy sauce and is served over white rice.

• Brazilians make it with chicken or shrimp instead of beef.

• In Sweden, stroganoff is made with slices of sausage rather than beef.

• American recipes sometimes include Worcestershire or other seasonings, and use wide egg noodles.

So while the core ingredients stay the same, beef stroganoff is prepared with regional twists in different cuisines.

Why It Became So Popular

There are several reasons beef stroganoff became a worldwide hit:

• It highlights beef – many cultures favor beef as a special occasion ingredient.

• The sauce is simple yet luxurious with its sour cream and mustard.

• It balances textures – the tender beef, crispy mushrooms, starchy noodles, and creamy sauce.

• The umami flavors of beef, mushrooms, and broth make it rich and satisfying.

• It’s simple to prepare from widely available ingredients.

• The name evokes an elite Russian pedigree, even if it’s unclear who invented it!

Serving Suggestions

There are many great ways to round out a beef stroganoff dinner:

• A green salad provides color and freshness.

• Buttered peas or green beans make an easy veggie side.

• Rice or roasted potatoes can stand in for noodles.

• Fresh bread is perfect for dipping in the luscious sauce.

• A glass of red wine nicely complements the deep flavors.

For dessert, a creamy parfait or chocolate cake makes a nice finish.

Tips for the Best Beef Stroganoff

To make stellar beef stroganoff at home, keep these tips in mind:

• Use a tender, well-marbled beef cut for the best texture.

• Sear the beef over high heat for a caramelized crust.

• Cook the mushrooms until browned for a meaty, woodsy flavor.

• Stir the sour cream in at the end to prevent curdling.

• Use full fat sour cream for the richest flavor and creamiest texture.

• Boil the noodles to al dente so they don’t overcook when baked.

• Add a splash of pasta water to the sauce to cling to the noodles.

• Serve it immediately for the hottest, freshest flavor.

With its rich, satisfying flavors and easy preparation, it’s no wonder beef stroganoff has earned its place as a beloved comfort food. The technique of quickly searing beef then simmering it in a creamy, mustard-spiked sauce can be applied to so many variations. This versatility, along with its stellar flavors, help explain why beef stroganoff became an international sensation. Follow the tips above for your best homemade version yet. Just be prepared for requests for seconds!