- **Beef**: Opt for chuck roast or sirloin slices to ensure tender results.
- **Onions**: Finely chop 2 large onions; they provide the perfect sweetness and flavor base.
- **Garlic**: Crush 3 cloves of garlic; it adds a robust depth of flavor.
- **Tomatoes**: Use 14 oz (about 1.5 cups) of crushed tomatoes for rich, savory goodness.
- **Beef Broth**: A 32 oz carton or equivalent beef broth is essential for liquid content.
- **Worcestershire Sauce**: About 2 tablespoons; it enhances the umami flavor without overpowering the dish.
- **Soy Sauce**: Use light soy sauce to add saltiness and depth (about 1.5 tablespoons).
- **Red Wine**: For a richer flavor, use about 1/4 cup of dry red wine (optional but highly recommended for complexity).
- **Cornstarch**: Mix 2 teaspoons with water to create a slurry; this helps thicken the sauce.
- **Fresh Dill**: Finely chop about 1 tablespoon of fresh dill for an aromatic finish (optional).
- **Noodles**: Opt for egg noodles, cut into bite-sized pieces if using large noodles.
- **Margarine or Butter**: Use 3 tablespoons to brown the beef and sauté vegetables.
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Steps
### Classic Beef Stroganoff Recipe: A Slow Cooker Delight
#### Introduction to Beef Stroganoff
Beef stroganoff is a Russian dish that typically features tender beef slices in a creamy sauce made from sour cream and mushrooms, served with egg noodles or rice. This recipe showcases how you can prepare this delicious meal using your slow cooker for a hassle-free cooking experience.
#### Ingredients
- 1 pound flank steak, sliced thinly across the grain
### Step-by-Step Instructions for Slow-Cooked Beef Stroganoff
#### Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Slice the flank steak thinly across the grain. This ensures that the meat will cook evenly and remain tender.
- Mince garlic and dice an onion. Slicing the onions finely helps them cook quickly, ensuring a balanced flavor.
#### Step 2: Season the Beef
- In a large bowl or directly in your slow cooker, season the sliced beef with salt and pepper. This simple seasoning step is crucial for enhancing the natural flavors of the meat.
#### Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and diced onions to the pan. Cook until the vegetables are tender and slightly caramelized, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the sautéed mixture from the skillet and set aside.
#### Step 4: Brown the Beef (Optional)
- If you have time or prefer your beef more well-done, lightly brown the seasoned steak slices in the same skillet over medium-high heat. This step is optional but can add a nice crust to the meat.
- Transfer the cooked beef back into the slow cooker with the sautéed vegetables.
#### Step 5: Prepare the Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix sour cream, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and dried thyme. This flavorful blend will give your stroganoff its signature taste.
- Pour this mixture over the beef and vegetable mixture in your slow cooker.
#### Step 6: Add Broth and Noodles
- Stir in beef broth to ensure everything is well combined. This step ensures a rich base for your sauce.
- Add egg noodles or rice to the slow cooker, ensuring they are evenly distributed among the ingredients.
#### Step 7: Cook on Low
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours. The low setting allows all flavors to meld together without overcooking the meat or drying out the sauce.
#### Step 8: Serve
- Once done, remove the beef and vegetables from the slow cooker using tongs. You can shred the beef if desired.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an extra touch of elegance.
- Serve hot over egg noodles or rice, drizzling a bit of sauce over each portion.
#### Tips
- Ensure your ingredients are at room temperature before adding them to the slow cooker for faster and more even cooking.
- For added depth of flavor, consider using low-sodium beef broth.
### Conclusion
This classic beef stroganoff recipe makes an excellent meal that is not only comforting but also easy to prepare. Perfectly suited for busy weeknights or family dinners, this dish will transport you back to the Russian dining tables with its rich flavors and creamy texture. Enjoy your culinary adventure!