Ah, there’s nothing quite like the comforting embrace of a rich beef stroganoff on a chilly evening, especially when paired with a fluffy mound of egg noodles or creamy mashed potatoes. Picture this—a warm bowl of tender beef in a luscious sauce, topped with fresh herbs and served alongside a glass of red wine.
That’s the kind of meal that makes a regular weeknight feel like a cozy dinner party. Today, I’m thrilled to share my take on a classic dish: Hungarian Beef Stroganoff.

Hungarian Beef Stroganoff is not just another variation of stroganoff; it brings a unique twist that celebrates the flavors of Hungary. The combination of tender beef, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy sauce results in a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying.
Whether you’re planning a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish will undoubtedly impress.
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What is Hungarian Beef Stroganoff Recipe?
At its core, Hungarian Beef Stroganoff is a rich stew featuring beef strips, mushrooms, and onions, all enveloped in a silky sauce primarily made from sour cream and mustard. The dish hails from Hungary and is known for its unique blend of spices, which sets it apart from its Russian counterpart. While traditional stroganoffs often lean on creaminess, this version embraces a wonderful balance of flavors that reflect its Hungarian roots.
What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Hungarian Beef Stroganoff Recipe?
What sets my Hungarian Beef Stroganoff apart is the intentional inclusion of pickled cucumbers and a splash of white wine, effortlessly elevating the flavors. The pickles introduce a delightful tanginess, complementing the richness of the beef and sauce. Plus, the use of quality mustard adds a depth of flavor, ensuring each bite is a burst of savory goodness.
How Does It Taste Like?
Expect a fabulous interplay of savory and tangy in every mouthful. The tender beef strips are buttery and succulent, while the mushrooms add a nice earthy touch. The tang from the pickled cucumbers and a hint of acidity from the white wine create a symphony of flavors that is truly unforgettable. It’s a dish that brings comfort without overwhelming the palate, making it suitable for various tastes.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish

– 600g of beef tenderloin, cut into strips
– 350g of chestnut mushrooms, cleaned and quartered
– 1 medium brown onion, finely chopped
– 150ml of sour cream
– 25g of butter
– 100g of pickled cucumber, thinly sliced
– 150ml of white wine (a dry variety for balance)
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard (adds depth)
– Salt and pepper to taste
This combination of ingredients not only provides a depth of flavor but also keeps the cooking process straightforward.
Ingredients From : bestofhungary.co.uk
How to Make Hungarian Beef Stroganoff Recipe?
Let’s jump right into the cooking! Trust me, this process is as enjoyable as the dish itself. Grab your skillet, let’s get cooking!
Step-by-step directions:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Before you dive into cooking, it’s essential to have everything organized. Finely chop the onion, clean and quarter the mushrooms, and thinly slice the pickled cucumber. Don’t skip this step—it makes the cooking process smooth and efficient!
Step 2: Slice the Beef

Now, take the beef tenderloin and cut it into strips about finger-width. This size ensures even cooking and allows the meat to soak up all those delicious flavors. Set these aside for later.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions

In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. When the butter has melted and starts to foam, add the chopped onions. Cook them until they turn translucent—about 3 to 5 minutes. This step builds the base for your rich sauce.
Step 4: Cook the Beef

Next, add the prepared beef strips to the pan. Stir them in to coat them with the butter and onions. Continue to cook them until they turn a nice white color—this shouldn’t take more than 5 minutes. Season this layer with salt and pepper to taste, enhancing the flavor of the meat.
Step 5: Add the Mushrooms

Once the beef is looking lovely, toss in the quartered mushrooms. Cover the pan and let everything steam together for about 5 minutes. This will help the mushrooms release their moisture and infuse the meat with fantastic earthy flavors.
Step 6: Introduce the Acidity

Now, uncover the pan and mix in the sliced pickled cucumber and the white wine. Bring this delightful medley to a boil and let it bubble for a couple of minutes. This brief simmer allows the alcohol to evaporate while keeping the sauce lovely and tangy.
Step 7: Finish with Creamy Goodness
Stir in the Dijon mustard and the sour cream, blending them into the sauce. Allow the dish to simmer for a few more moments until everything is combined and heated through. At this point, your kitchen should smell divine!
Tips & Tricks On Making Hungarian Beef Stroganoff Recipe
– Choose Quality Beef: The better the meat, the better your stroganoff will be. Look for tender cuts like beef tenderloin for optimal tenderness.
– Don’t Rush the Onions: Sautéing the onions thoroughly enriches the base flavor. Patience is key here!
– Experiment with Mushrooms: While chestnut mushrooms are great, consider adding shiitake or cremini mushrooms for different flavors and textures.
– Be Mindful with Sour Cream: To prevent curdling, let the sour cream come to room temperature before mixing it into the sauce.
– Serve Promptly: Stroganoff is best enjoyed fresh. If you need to make it ahead of time, reheat gently to maintain the sauce’s creaminess.
How Do I Store This Dish?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm gently in a pan over low heat to avoid curdling the sauce. You can also add a splash of water to loosen the sauce, bringing it back to life.
Serving Suggestions
1. With Egg Noodles: The classic pairing! They soak up the sauce beautifully and are a hit with kids and adults alike.
2. Over Mashed Potatoes: For a comforting dish on those colder nights, creamy mashed potatoes provide a nice base to catch all the saucy goodness.
3. On Rice: For a lighter option, serve the stroganoff over fluffy brown or white rice. It’s a great way to balance the richness.
4. With Fresh Bread: Serve alongside a crusty loaf of bread, perfect for scooping up the sauce.
5. Accompanied by a Simple Salad: Balance out the meal with a fresh salad of mixed greens and a light vinaigrette.
What Other Substitute Can I Use In Hungarian Beef Stroganoff Recipe?
– Turkey or Chicken: For a leaner option, swap the beef with turkey or chicken tenderloin, adjusting cooking time as needed.
– Mushroom Varieties: Try swapping chestnut mushrooms for more exotic varieties like portobello or enoki mushrooms for different flavors.
– Greek Yogurt: Substitute sour cream with plain Greek yogurt for a tangy twist with more protein.
– Vegetarian Option: Replace beef with lentils or a firm protein like tofu for a plant-based version.
– Vegan Alternative: Use coconut cream and add sautéed vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini instead of beef.

Equipment
- Large skillet
- cutting board
- Sharp knife
Ingredients
- – 600g of beef tenderloin cut into strips
- – 350g of chestnut mushrooms cleaned and quartered
- – 1 medium brown onion finely chopped
- – 150ml of sour cream
- – 25g of butter
- – 100g of pickled cucumber thinly sliced
- – 150ml of white wine a dry variety for balance
- – 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard adds depth
- – Salt and pepper to taste
- This combination of ingredients not only provides a depth of flavor but also keeps the cooking process straightforward.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
- Before you dive into cooking, it’s essential to have everything organized. Finely chop the onion, clean and quarter the mushrooms, and thinly slice the pickled cucumber. Don’t skip this step—it makes the cooking process smooth and efficient!
Step 2: Slice the Beef
- Now, take the beef tenderloin and cut it into strips about finger-width. This size ensures even cooking and allows the meat to soak up all those delicious flavors. Set these aside for later.
Step 3: Sauté the Onions
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. When the butter has melted and starts to foam, add the chopped onions. Cook them until they turn translucent—about 3 to 5 minutes. This step builds the base for your rich sauce.
Step 4: Cook the Beef
- Next, add the prepared beef strips to the pan. Stir them in to coat them with the butter and onions. Continue to cook them until they turn a nice white color—this shouldn’t take more than 5 minutes. Season this layer with salt and pepper to taste, enhancing the flavor of the meat.
Step 5: Add the Mushrooms
- Once the beef is looking lovely, toss in the quartered mushrooms. Cover the pan and let everything steam together for about 5 minutes. This will help the mushrooms release their moisture and infuse the meat with fantastic earthy flavors.
Step 6: Introduce the Acidity
- Now, uncover the pan and mix in the sliced pickled cucumber and the white wine. Bring this delightful medley to a boil and let it bubble for a couple of minutes. This brief simmer allows the alcohol to evaporate while keeping the sauce lovely and tangy.
Step 7: Finish with Creamy Goodness
- Stir in the Dijon mustard and the sour cream, blending them into the sauce. Allow the dish to simmer for a few more moments until everything is combined and heated through. At this point, your kitchen should smell divine!
Notes
Nutrition
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen beef for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw it completely and pat it dry before cooking. This ensures your meat gets a good sear instead of steam.
2. Is it okay to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Stroganoff can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Just reheat gently while stirring in a little water or additional sour cream to refresh the sauce.
3. What other sides can I serve with this dish?
Aside from noodles and potatoes, boiled vegetables, or a tangy cucumber salad pair well with the richness of stroganoff.
4. Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
While it’s possible, be cautious with sour cream—add it towards the end of cooking to prevent curdling.
5. How do I know when my beef is cooked to perfection?
The beef should be tender and no longer pink in the center but cooked quickly over medium-high heat to maintain juiciness.
Conclusion
There you have it—a delightful Hungarian Beef Stroganoff recipe that’s both simple and utterly delicious. This dish takes humble ingredients and turns them into a comforting feast that’s perfect for family dinners or celebrations.
Now that you know how to make it, I can’t wait for you to enjoy your own versions! So why wait? Gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready for a culinary journey straight to Hungary from the comfort of your own kitchen. Happy cooking!
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Rebecca Novak is a trained chef with over 10 years of experience in the food industry. She has worked in both fine dining and casual Hungarian restaurants and specializes in creating dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients. She also loves exploring different cuisines worldwide, which allows her to bring unique flavors and ideas to the recipes she creates for Hungarianchef.com. Read more