Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Use your fist, rolling pin, or meat mallet to flatten the steaks to about 2cm thick. Slice into 5mm strips, cutting long ones in half and discarding excess fat. Sprinkle with a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a large skillet over high heat. Scatter half the beef strips in the skillet and quickly spread with tongs. Leave untouched for 30 seconds until browned. Turn beef quickly and leave untouched for another 30 seconds. Immediately remove to a plate. Don't worry about pink bits or that it looks raw inside.
- Add remaining 1 tablespoon oil and repeat with remaining beef. Remove to plate with first batch.
- Turn heat down to medium-high. Add butter and let it melt. Add onions and cook for 1 minute, then add mushrooms. Cook until golden brown, scraping the bottom of the pan to get all the flavorful brown bits.
- Add flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 1 minute. Add half the beef broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Once incorporated, add remaining broth.
- Stir in sour cream and mustard until well combined. Don't worry if it looks split initially - the sour cream will smooth out as it heats.
- Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low. Let thicken to the consistency of pouring cream (3-5 minutes). Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Add the seared beef back to the pan along with any accumulated juices. Simmer for exactly 1 minute, then remove from heat immediately to prevent overcooking.
- Serve immediately over cooked pasta or egg noodles. Garnish with chopped chives if desired.
Notes
Best Beef Cuts: Use tender, well-marbled cuts like boneless rib eye, sirloin, or tenderloin. Avoid tough cuts like chuck or round steak for this quick-cooking method.
The 30-Second Rule: Don't overcook the beef during searing. The strips will finish cooking in the sauce, so a quick sear is all you need.
Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water. Never continue simmering once the beef is added back, as this will overcook the meat.
Storage: Keeps 3-4 days in the refrigerator and freezes well. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking the beef.
Serving Tips: Short pasta shapes work better than long noodles as they capture the sauce more effectively.