If you're looking for a hearty and delicious meal, beef stroganoff is a great choice. With 380 calories per serving (9 3/4 oz), it's filling and satisfying. Made with tender strips of beef, mushrooms, onions, and a creamy sauce, this classic dish is perfect for dinner any night of the week.

In addition to being tasty, beef stroganoff is also fairly nutritious. Each serving packs a punch with 32 grams of protein, 18 grams of fat, and 19 grams of carbohydrates. With a blend of vitamins and minerals like iron, potassium, and vitamin D, this dish is a satisfying and healthy option to consider when you're looking for something to eat.

In this article, we'll explore some practical tips and strategies for making the perfect beef stroganoff, as well as some of the benefits and variations of this classic dish.

What is Beef Stroganoff?

Beef stroganoff is a Russian dish that has become a popular comfort food worldwide. It typically consists of strips of beef sautéed in butter and cooked with onions and mushrooms. A creamy sauce made with sour cream or crème fraîche is added, along with traditional seasonings like mustard, garlic, and paprika. The dish was named after the Russian Stroganov family, who were prominent in the 19th century. It's believed that the recipe was originally created by French chef Charles Briere, who worked for the family. Today, there are many different variations of beef stroganoff, each with their own unique twist on this classic dish.

Ingredients of Beef Stroganoff

To make beef stroganoff, you'll need a few key ingredients. Here's what you'll need:

• 1 pound of beef tenderloin, sirloin, or flank steak
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cups mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste

You can also add other ingredients like red wine, Worcestershire sauce, or herbs like thyme or rosemary to add more flavor to the dish.

Calories Count in Beef Stroganoff

Beef stroganoff is a calorie-dense meal, with each serving (9 3/4 oz) containing approximately 380 calories. The exact calorie count may vary depending on the cooking method and specific ingredients used. To keep the calorie count down, you can use lean cuts of beef like tenderloin or sirloin, and reduce the amount of butter or oil used. You can also try using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream to cut down on calories without sacrificing taste.

Nutritional Value of Beef Stroganoff

In addition to being a satisfying and delicious meal, beef stroganoff is also a good source of several key nutrients. Here's a breakdown of the nutritional value of one serving (9 3/4 oz) of beef stroganoff:

• calories: 380
• Protein: 32 grams
• Fat: 18 grams
• Carbohydrates: 19 grams
• Fiber: 2 grams
• Sugar: 4 grams
• Iron: 24% of the daily value (DV)
• Potassium: 16% of the DV
• Vitamin D: 30% of the DV

Overall, beef stroganoff is a well-rounded meal that can help you meet your daily nutrient needs.

Benefits of Beef Stroganoff

Beef stroganoff has several potential benefits to offer. Here are a few of them:

• High in protein: With 32 grams of protein per serving, beef stroganoff is a great way to meet your daily protein needs. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues, and it can help you feel full and satisfied after eating.
• Rich in iron: Beef is a good source of iron, which is important for healthy red blood cells and oxygen transport. Iron deficiency can lead to fatigue, weakness, and other health problems.
• May support bone health: Vitamin D, which is found in beef stroganoff, can help your body absorb calcium and other minerals that are important for bone health. Eating vitamin D-rich foods may help reduce your risk of osteoporosis and other bone diseases.

Variations of Beef Stroganoff

There are many different recipes and variations for beef stroganoff. Here are a few popular ones:

• Slow cooker beef stroganoff: This version of the dish uses a slow cooker to cook the beef and other ingredients low and slow, resulting in a tender and flavorful meal.
• Crockpot beef stroganoff: Similar to the slow cooker version, this recipe involves cooking the beef and other ingredients in a crockpot for several hours until they are tender.
• Chicken stroganoff: A variation on the classic dish, this recipe uses chicken instead of beef for a lighter and healthier option.
• Vegan stroganoff: You can also make a vegan version of beef stroganoff by using textured vegetable protein (TVP) or mushrooms instead of meat, and vegan sour cream or yogurt to give the sauce its creamy consistency.

How to Cook Beef Stroganoff?

To make beef stroganoff, follow these simple steps:

1. Cut the beef into thin strips and season with salt and pepper.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and mushrooms and cook until the mushrooms are tender, about 5 minutes. Remove the vegetables from the skillet and set aside.
4. Add the beef to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 4-5 minutes.
5. Add the cooked vegetables back to the skillet with the beef. Add the beef broth, Dijon mustard, and paprika. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 5-10 minutes.
6. Stir in the sour cream and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce is heated through.
7. Serve the beef stroganoff over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes.

Is Beef Stroganoff Healthy?

While beef stroganoff can be a nutritious meal, it's important to keep portion sizes in mind. One serving (9 3/4 oz) contains around 380 calories, which can add up if you eat too much. It's also important to choose lean cuts of beef and limit the amount of butter, cream, and other high-fat ingredients. Using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream can help cut down on calories without sacrificing taste. Overall, beef stroganoff can be a healthy and satisfying meal when enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

Best Side Dishes for Beef Stroganoff

When serving beef stroganoff, there are several side dishes that pair well with this classic dish. Here are a few options to consider:

• Egg noodles: The classic accompaniment to beef stroganoff, egg noodles are hearty and filling. They also provide a neutral base for the flavorful sauce.
• Vegetables: To balance out the richness of the dish, consider serving it with some steamed or roasted vegetables. Broccoli, green beans, asparagus, and carrots all work well.
• Mashed potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes can be a great complement to the rich sauce in beef stroganoff.
• Bread: Freshly baked bread, such as a crusty baguette or dinner rolls, can help soak up the extra sauce and add some texture to the meal.

Can Beef Stroganoff be Frozen?

Yes, beef stroganoff can be frozen for later use. To freeze the dish, allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. You can store beef stroganoff in the freezer for up to 3 months. To thaw the dish, simply remove it from the freezer and let it defrost in the refrigerator overnight. When you're ready to eat, reheat the beef stroganoff on the stove or in the oven until it's heated through.