Beef Stroganoff with Pimento Rice

Beef Stroganoff with Pimento Rice Recipe - Russian Cuisine

Region / culture: Russia | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour and 10 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Beef Stroganoff with Pimento Rice is a classic dish that combines the rich, savory flavors of beef stroganoff with the unique, slightly sweet taste of pimento rice. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate a hearty meal that is both comforting and sophisticated. The combination of tender beef, creamy sauce, and flavorful rice makes this dish a favorite among many.

History

The origins of Beef Stroganoff can be traced back to 19th century Russia, where it was a staple among the aristocracy. The dish has evolved over the years, with various cultures adding their own twist to it. The addition of pimento rice, however, is a more modern variation that adds a Southern or Caribbean flair to the traditional Russian recipe.

Ingredients

1.5 lb (680 g) boneless chuck roast, cut into thin, narrow strips
2 tbsp oil
2 small bay leaves
2 cloves garlic, crushed
3 cup beef broth, divided
1.5 tsp salt
0.25 tsp ground black pepper
2.5 cup chopped onions, divided
0.33 cup flour
0.5 cup sherry (optional)
0.5 cup sour cream
0.5 cup chopped green pepper
1 tbsp butter or margarine
3 cup cooked rice
0.25 cup diced pimentos

How to prepare

Cook the meat in shortening until it turns brown in a large skillet.
Add bay leaves, garlic, and 2 cups of broth.
Cover and simmer for 1 hour or until the meat becomes tender.
Add salt, pepper, and 2 cups of onions.
Mix a little broth with the flour and blend it to a smooth paste.
Add the rest of the broth and wine.
Stir the mixture into the meat.
Cook for about 10 minutes longer.
Remove from heat and discard the bay leaves.
Stir in the sour cream.
Meanwhile, cook the green pepper and the remaining 0.5 cup of onion in butter until they become tender.
Stir in the rice and season it with additional salt and pepper.
Heat thoroughly.
Add pimentos and fluff lightly with a fork.
Serve the stroganoff over the pimento rice.

Variations

For a lighter version, consider using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream. Adding mushrooms to the beef stroganoff or substituting the beef with chicken or tofu can offer a new twist on the traditional recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the beef is tender and flavorful, it's important to cut it against the grain into thin strips. Browning the meat in batches can also prevent it from steaming and help achieve a nice sear. For the pimento rice, using a rice cooker can yield fluffy rice every time, but if cooking on the stove, be sure to monitor the water level and adjust the heat as needed to prevent sticking or burning.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is best served hot, directly after combining the beef stroganoff and pimento rice. Garnishing with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika can add color and enhance the flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Slow cooking the beef on low heat ensures it becomes tender and absorbs the flavors of the broth and spices. For the rice, using the absorption method can yield perfectly cooked grains that are neither too dry nor too mushy.

Ingredient Substitutions

For those avoiding alcohol, the sherry can be replaced with additional beef broth or a non-alcoholic wine. Gluten-free flour can be used as a thickener to make the recipe gluten-free.

Make Ahead Tips

Both the beef stroganoff and the pimento rice can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the beef stroganoff over a bed of pimento rice in a shallow bowl or plate. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a touch of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp salad or steamed green beans make excellent side dishes that complement the richness of the beef stroganoff. For wine enthusiasts, a medium-bodied red wine such as a Merlot or Pinot Noir pairs beautifully with the flavors of the dish.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a little broth or water if necessary to prevent drying out.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Beef Stroganoff with Pimento Rice contains approximately 500 calories, making it a hearty meal that can fit into a balanced diet.

Carbohydrates

This dish provides a balanced amount of carbohydrates, primarily from the rice. A serving of Beef Stroganoff with Pimento Rice contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates. The rice not only serves as a source of energy but also adds dietary fiber to the meal.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come from the oil used for cooking, the sour cream, and the beef itself. In total, a serving contains about 20 grams of fat, of which 7 grams are saturated. Using a lighter sour cream or trimming the fat from the beef can reduce the overall fat content.

Proteins

Beef Stroganoff with Pimento Rice is rich in proteins, thanks to the generous amount of beef. Each serving provides approximately 35 grams of protein, making it an excellent choice for muscle repair and growth.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin B12 from the beef, Vitamin C from the pimentos, and various B vitamins from the rice. It also provides iron and zinc, which are crucial for overall health.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include gluten (from the flour) and dairy (from the sour cream). Those with sensitivities should consider appropriate substitutions.

Summary

Overall, Beef Stroganoff with Pimento Rice offers a well-rounded nutritional profile, with a good balance of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats, along with essential vitamins and minerals. It's a satisfying meal that supports a healthy diet.

Summary

Beef Stroganoff with Pimento Rice is a delightful dish that combines the rich, comforting flavors of beef stroganoff with the unique taste of pimento rice. It's a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit various dietary needs and preferences. Whether you're looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a delicious meal at home, this recipe is sure to satisfy.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is etched in my memory forever. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Margaret in her quaint little cottage by the sea. Margaret was known for her delicious cooking, and I always looked forward to our culinary adventures together.

On this particular day, Margaret invited me into her cozy kitchen and announced that she would be making Beef Stroganoff with Pimento Rice for our lunch. I had never tried this dish before, but the tantalizing aroma wafting from the stove immediately piqued my interest.

As Margaret began to chop onions and garlic with practiced precision, I asked her where she had learned to make such a delectable dish. She chuckled softly and revealed that she had first tasted Beef Stroganoff with Pimento Rice many years ago, during a trip to Russia.

Margaret explained that she had befriended a kind elderly woman named Olga while exploring the bustling streets of Moscow. Olga had invited her into her humble home and treated her to a feast of traditional Russian dishes, including the unforgettable Beef Stroganoff with Pimento Rice.

I listened intently as Margaret recounted the warm hospitality and culinary expertise of her newfound friend. When Olga had learned of Margaret's passion for cooking, she had eagerly shared her treasured recipe for Beef Stroganoff with Pimento Rice, passing down a culinary legacy that had been handed down through generations.

Inspired by Margaret's heartfelt story, I watched as she expertly seared strips of tender beef in a hot skillet, infusing the air with the rich, savory scent of cooking meat. She then added a creamy blend of sour cream and beef broth, creating a luscious sauce that coated the beef in a velvety embrace.

In a separate pot, Margaret prepared the Pimento Rice, a vibrant combination of fluffy rice, sweet pimentos, and fragrant herbs. The colorful dish looked like a work of art, each grain of rice glistening with the promise of a delicious meal.

As we sat down to enjoy our Beef Stroganoff with Pimento Rice, I marveled at the way the flavors danced on my tongue, each bite a symphony of savory and sweet notes. Margaret smiled as she watched me savoring the dish, knowing that she had passed on a precious gift from Olga to me.

After lunch, Margaret presented me with a handwritten copy of the recipe for Beef Stroganoff with Pimento Rice, a tangible reminder of our shared culinary adventure. I treasured the recipe like a precious heirloom, vowing to recreate the dish for my own loved ones in the years to come.

Since that fateful day in Margaret's kitchen, Beef Stroganoff with Pimento Rice has become a beloved staple in my own culinary repertoire. I have shared the recipe with friends and family, spreading the joy of good food and warm memories wherever I go.

As I sit here now, penning this story for posterity, I am filled with gratitude for the serendipitous moment that brought me the recipe for Beef Stroganoff with Pimento Rice. It is a testament to the power of food to connect us across time and distance, weaving a tapestry of shared experiences and cherished traditions.

And so, I will continue to cook and share this beloved recipe, keeping alive the spirit of friendship and generosity that first inspired me to embark on this culinary journey. For in every bite of Beef Stroganoff with Pimento Rice, I taste the flavors of love, laughter, and lasting memories that will endure for generations to come.