Beef with Sour Cream

Beef with Sour Cream Recipe - Delicious and Hearty Meal from the USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour | Servings: 4

Introduction

Beef with Sour Cream is a classic dish that combines the rich flavors of beef with the tangy taste of sour cream, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for those who appreciate the depth of flavor that comes from slow-cooking beef and the creamy texture that sour cream adds to the dish. Whether you're looking for a hearty dinner option or a special dish to serve at gatherings, Beef with Sour Cream is sure to impress.

History

The origins of Beef with Sour Cream can be traced back to Eastern European cuisine, where sour cream is a staple ingredient used in many dishes. Over time, this recipe has traveled and evolved, incorporating various regional flavors and cooking techniques. It has become a beloved dish in many cultures, appreciated for its rich taste and comforting qualities.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) boneless beef round steak, approximately 1 inch thick
0.25 cup flour, seasoned with salt, ground black pepper, and garlic powder
2 tbsp vegetable oil
0.75 cup chopped brown onion
1 cup beef broth
0.5 tsp thyme
1 4 oz (113 g) can sliced mushrooms, including the liquid
1 10 oz (283 g) package frozen green peas
0.5 cup sour cream
3 to 4 cups hot cooked rice

How to prepare

Cut the meat into thin strips, approximately 2 inches long. Coat the meat with flour.
In a large skillet, quickly brown the meat on all sides in hot oil.
Add the onion, broth, thyme, and the liquid from the mushrooms.
Cover the skillet and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the meat becomes tender. Then, add the mushrooms and peas.
Cover the skillet again and cook for an additional 5 to 7 minutes.
Mix in the sour cream. Heat the mixture, but do not let it boil.
Serve the dish over fluffy rice, or spoon the meat mixture onto a plate and top each serving with a mound of rice.

Variations

For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding paprika for a smoky flavor or a splash of white wine for added depth. You can also substitute the beef with chicken or pork for a different taste experience.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

To ensure the beef is tender and flavorful, it's important to cut the meat against the grain into thin strips. Browning the meat quickly on high heat helps to seal in the juices, while slow simmering in broth tenderizes the meat and enriches the flavor of the sauce. Adding the sour cream at the end of cooking and ensuring it doesn't boil will keep the sauce smooth and creamy.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is best served hot, over a bed of fluffy, cooked rice. For a complete meal, accompany it with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

Slow simmering is key to achieving tender beef and a flavorful sauce. For those looking to save time, this recipe can also be adapted for pressure cooking, significantly reducing the cooking time.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make this dish dairy-free, coconut cream can be a good substitute for sour cream. For a gluten-free version, use cornstarch instead of flour to coat the beef.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen over time, making leftovers just as delicious as the freshly made dish.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Beef with Sour Cream in a deep dish, garnished with fresh parsley or dill for a pop of color and freshness. A side of crusty bread can also complement the creamy sauce beautifully.

Pairing Recommendations

A medium-bodied red wine, such as Merlot or Pinot Noir, pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of this dish. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon complements the creaminess of the sauce.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, gently warm the dish on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce has thickened too much.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A single serving of Beef with Sour Cream, served over a cup of cooked rice, contains approximately 500-600 calories. The exact calorie count can vary based on the specific ingredients used and portion sizes.

Carbohydrates

This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the main sources being the onions, peas, and the small amount of flour used for coating the meat. Serving the dish over rice increases the carbohydrate content, making it a balanced meal.

Fats

The fats in this recipe come primarily from the vegetable oil used for frying, the beef itself, and the sour cream. Using lean cuts of beef and a light sour cream can help reduce the fat content without compromising the dish's creamy texture and rich flavor.

Proteins

Beef is an excellent source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle repair and growth. This dish provides a generous amount of protein, making it a satisfying and muscle-building meal option.

Vitamins and minerals

Beef with Sour Cream is rich in various vitamins and minerals, including B vitamins from the beef, which are crucial for energy production and maintaining healthy nerves. The mushrooms add selenium, an important antioxidant, and the peas provide vitamin C, fiber, and additional antioxidants.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include dairy (sour cream) and gluten (from flour used to coat the beef). Individuals with allergies or sensitivities to these ingredients should modify the recipe accordingly.

Summary

Overall, Beef with Sour Cream is a nutrient-rich dish that provides a good balance of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates. It also offers various vitamins and minerals essential for a healthy diet. Adjustments can be made to accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences.

Summary

Beef with Sour Cream is a timeless dish that combines tender beef, creamy sour cream, and a blend of savory flavors to create a comforting and satisfying meal. With its rich nutritional profile and versatile serving options, it's a perfect choice for a family dinner or a special occasion. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or explore variations, this dish is sure to become a favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in the countryside. My grandmother, who was a fantastic cook and a treasure trove of culinary knowledge, had just returned from a trip to the neighboring town.

She was buzzing with excitement as she unpacked her bags, pulling out a tattered old recipe book that she had found in a dusty corner of a local market. As she flipped through the pages, her eyes lit up with delight when she came across a recipe for Beef with Sour Cream.

"This is a traditional dish from the region," she explained to me, her voice filled with nostalgia. "It's a simple yet delicious meal that has been passed down through generations. I can't wait to try it out."

And so, we set to work in the kitchen, gathering the ingredients and following the instructions carefully. The recipe called for tender beef strips, onions, mushrooms, and a generous dollop of sour cream. As the aroma of cooking meat filled the air, my mouth watered in anticipation of the feast to come.

When the dish was finally ready, we sat down at the table and dug in with gusto. The tender beef melted in my mouth, the tangy sour cream adding a rich and creamy flavor to the dish. It was love at first bite, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my own culinary repertoire.

Over the years, I have made Beef with Sour Cream countless times, tweaking and perfecting the recipe to suit my own tastes. I have served it at family gatherings, dinner parties, and cozy nights in with just my husband and me. Each time, it never fails to impress and delight those who taste it.

As I have grown older, I have come to appreciate the value of traditional recipes like Beef with Sour Cream. They are more than just a way to satisfy hunger; they are a connection to the past, a link to the generations that came before us. Each time I make this dish, I feel a sense of pride and gratitude for the culinary heritage that has been passed down to me.

And so, I continue to cook and share this beloved recipe with others, hoping to spread the joy and comfort that it brings. As I do, I can't help but think of my grandmother and the day she first introduced me to Beef with Sour Cream. I am forever grateful for her culinary wisdom and the delicious legacy that she has left behind.