Beef Stroganoff Recipe: How To Make It With Heavy Cream

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of this classic Russian dish, Beef Stroganoff, elevated with the velvety richness of heavy cream. This comprehensive guide will unveil the secrets to creating a mouthwatering masterpiece, perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound boneless beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Season the Beef:

• Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper.

2. Brown the Beef:

• Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil and brown the beef cubes in batches, working in batches to avoid overcrowding. Remove the beef from the skillet and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables:

• In the same skillet, add the onion and sauté until softened. Stir in the garlic and mushrooms and cook until fragrant.

4. Sprinkle in the Flour:

• Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir to coat. Cook for 1 minute to remove the raw flour flavor.

5. Add the Beef Broth:

• Gradually whisk in the beef broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.

6. Stir in the Beef and Heavy Cream:

• Add the browned beef back to the skillet. Pour in the heavy cream, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

7. Simmer and Serve:

• Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the beef is tender and the sauce has reached your desired thickness. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired, and serve hot over your favorite pasta, egg noodles, or mashed potatoes.

Tips for Perfection:

• Choose a Lean Cut of Beef: The chuck roast is a flavorful and affordable cut that becomes tender when braised.
• Tenderize the Beef: Pound the beef cubes with a meat mallet to break down the fibers and make them more tender.
• Use a Good Quality Beef Broth: A flavorful broth will enhance the depth of the sauce.
• Don’t Overcook the Beef: Overcooking will make the beef tough. Cook it until it’s just tender and juicy.
• Adjust the Sauce Thickness: Add more flour for a thicker sauce or more beef broth for a thinner sauce.

Variations:

• Beef Stroganoff with Sour Cream: Replace the heavy cream with sour cream for a tangy twist.
• Beef Stroganoff with Mushrooms: Add more sliced mushrooms to the dish for a more earthy flavor.
• Beef Stroganoff with Vegetables: Stir in chopped carrots, celery, or green beans to add more vegetables.

Serving Ideas:

• Egg Noodles: The classic accompaniment to Beef Stroganoff.
• Pasta: Any type of pasta, such as linguine, penne, or fettuccine, will work well.
• Mashed Potatoes: A creamy and comforting base for the rich sauce.
• Rice: A simple and versatile side dish.

Conclusion:

Mastering the art of Beef Stroganoff with Heavy Cream is a culinary triumph that will impress your family and friends. By following these detailed instructions and experimenting with variations, you can create a dish that is both flavorful and satisfying. Enjoy the delectable flavors of this classic dish and savor every bite.

FAQ:

Q: Can I use other cuts of beef?
A: Yes, you can use other tender cuts such as sirloin, flank steak, or top round.

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make the sauce up to 3 days in advance. Reheat it over low heat before serving.

Q: How can I thicken the sauce without flour?
A: You can use cornstarch or arrowroot starch mixed with a little water as a thickening agent.