The Stroganov: Titans of Wealth in the 17th Century Empire

Travel back in time to the middle of the 17th century, and you will find the Stroganov, a family that reigned as the epitome of opulence within the Russian Empire. They were part of the elite, the select few who could indulge in the luxury of meat—an extravagance that spoke volumes about their affluence.

Version 1: A Dish for the Elderly Count

In one version, Beef Stroganov is attributed to the ingenuity of the French chef Andre Dupont. It is said that the elderly Count Stroganov, due to waning dental strength, sought a culinary solution. Thus, Beef Stroganov, featuring tender morsels of meat, was crafted to accommodate his refined palate.

Version 2: A Dish for Count Stroganov’s “Open Tables”

A more widely embraced account paints a vivid picture of Count Stroganov’s life. As a wealthy and childless individual, he regularly hosted gatherings known as “open tables.” These soirées welcomed guests from diverse backgrounds, all bound by a shared love for intellectual pursuits. A key requirement for attendance was proper attire and a fair education. In this social tapestry, Beef Stroganov found its purpose—a delectable and easily portioned dish ideal for these convivial gatherings.

Beef Stroganov in a Competition

In 1891, a French chef by the name of Charles Brière, who had made his culinary mark in Saint Petersburg, added a new chapter to the Beef Stroganov story. He submitted his version of this iconic dish to a prestigious competition sponsored by the French magazine L’Art culinaire, further cementing its status.

Separating Fact from Legend

But here is a fascinating twist: while the internet regales us with tales of Stroganov beef’s rich history, it seems that this legendary dish might have never existed. Many of my Russian friends, born and raised in the heart of Russian cuisine, are blissfully unaware of its existence!!! Nevertheless, whether you are Russian or not, it is a culinary treasure worth discovering.

A Perfect Pairing: Listrac-Médoc from Bordeaux

I have considered a wine pairing that complements the richness of the Beef Stroganov in the red wine Listrac-Médoc from Bordeaux.

Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot

At the core of Listrac-Médoc’s winemaking heritage are two-star grape varieties. Cabernet Sauvignon, renowned for its structural prowess, is masterfully complemented by Merlot, which imparts delightful aromatic and fruity nuances.

The wine reveals aromas of blackberry, currant, liquorice, sweet spices, and a whisper of leather. They exude balance, possess a robust structure, and offer a luscious fleshiness. Beyond their immediate appeal, these wines hold the promise of aging gracefully.

Diverse Terroir

Listrac-Médoc occupies a prime location between Bordeaux and Le Verdon-sur-Mer. It is a land of diversity, where soils and microclimates interplay to create a kaleidoscope of wine styles…

STROGANOV BEEF

Sixtine

Try my easy-peasy and delicious Stroganov beef: A culinary treasure that redefines the art of elegant simplicity!

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Course Main Course

Cuisine French

Servings 3 people

Ingredients

  

• 400 g diced beef braising beef or paleron
• 250 g mushrooms sliced
• 1 onion finely chopped
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp mustard
• 20 cl white wine
• 20 cl crème fraîche
• butter
• 1 tbsp dark brown sugar

Instructions

 

• Fry the onion with the mushrooms in a large saucepan with a little bit of butter for a few minutes.
• Add the meat and the paprika. Cook for a further 5 minutes.
• Add the wine, the tomato paste and the sugar.
• Cover and cook under a low heat for 30 minutes.
• Meanwhile, pour the crème and the mustard in the saucepan and cook for a further 5 minutes undercover.
• Serve the beef with pasta for example.

Notes

Wine pairing : Listrac-Médoc (Red wine) from Bordeaux.