Prepare the Beef:
Start by pounding the rib-eye steak with a meat mallet to an even thickness of about 1/2 inch. This ensures the beef cooks evenly and remains tender.
Cut the steak into strips, and if the strips are too long, halve them to make them more manageable.
Generously season the beef strips with salt and black pepper on both sides.
Cook the Beef:
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet or pan over high heat.
Once the oil is hot, add the beef strips in batches. Sear each batch without overcrowding the pan, allowing them to cook undisturbed for about 30 seconds per side, or until nicely browned.
Transfer the cooked beef to a plate and set aside. This step locks in the juices and flavor of the beef.
Make the Gravy:
Reduce the heat to medium and add 3 tablespoons of butter to the same pan.
Once the butter has melted, add the chopped onions and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened and translucent.
Add the sliced mushrooms and continue to cook for another 3-4 minutes, or until they turn golden brown.
Thicken the Gravy:
Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of flour over the onions and mushrooms. Stir-fry the mixture for about 1 minute to cook off the raw flour taste.
Gradually whisk in half of the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Then add the remaining broth.
Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the gravy thickens slightly.
Finish the Gravy:
Stir in 3 tablespoons of sour cream and 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard, mixing well to combine. These ingredients add a tangy richness to the gravy.
For an extra touch of freshness, sprinkle in some chopped chives (optional).
Taste the gravy and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed.
Assemble the Dish:
Return the cooked beef strips to the pan with the gravy. Simmer for another minute, or until the beef is heated through and well coated with the sauce.
Serve:
While the beef is simmering, cook your favorite pasta according to the package instructions. Drain the pasta and serve it topped with the beef and gravy.
Garnish with extra chives if desired, and enjoy your restaurant-quality meal at home!
Tips for Success:
Choosing the Right Beef: Rib-eye is a tender and flavorful cut, but you can also use flank steak or skirt steak. If you opt for these cuts, consider marinating them for at least 30 minutes to enhance their tenderness.
Adjusting the Gravy: If your gravy ends up too thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Gluten-Free Option: To make this recipe gluten-free, simply substitute the flour with a gluten-free alternative.
Extra Vegetables: Feel free to get creative by adding other vegetables like chopped carrots or bell peppers to the gravy for added nutrition and flavor.
Conclusion: This beef recipe is a perfect example of how you can bring the taste of a high-end restaurant into your own kitchen. With its juicy, tender beef strips and creamy, savory gravy, it’s sure to impress anyone you serve it to. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this dish is a winner every time. Try it out and enjoy the compliments that are sure to follow!
