Stroganoff for Two

Image courtesy of Jacques Pèpin.

When it comes to a recipe recommendation, Jacques Pèpin is an undeniably reputable source. The renowned chef, culinary educator, and T.V. network personality cooks from his heart—take his beef stroganoff and zucchini dish. The recipe serves two, Pépin tells Family Style, making it a perfect, comforting meal to share with a loved one. “The beef filet is expensive, but a small portion goes a long way,” he shares, and the zucchini is prepared in a microwave—true to his ethos that food should be exciting and accessible to home cooks.  

‍

Ingredients

• 2 beef filets about 4 to 5 ounces each, trimmed of all fat and sinews
• 1 ½ teaspoons Spanish paprika
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 ½ cups coarsely julienned mushrooms
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons medium or amontillado sherry
• ⅓ cup sour cream or crème fraîche
• 2 tablespoons chopped chives
• 2 cups (¾-inch) cubed zucchini
• Salt
• 1 ½ tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

1. Cut the filet into ½-inch slices then slice into thick strips or julienne.
2. Sprinkle the filet with the paprika and salt.
3. Heat the butter and oil in a large skillet until lightly brown over high heat.
4. Add the beef, spreading the meat out over the pan so that it browns and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the mushrooms and pepper and continue to cook on high heat, tossing occasionally for 2 minutes.
6. Add the sherry and cook for 30 seconds.
7. Add the sour cream, mixing well.
8. Bring the whole mixture to a good boil before immediately removing from the heat.
9. While the beef is cooking, place the zucchini in a microwavable glass bowl and sprinkle lightly with salt.
10. Microwave on high for about two minutes or until the zucchini is just tender but still crunchy.
11. Drizzle with olive oil and using a slotted spoon, tip the zucchini onto a warm serving platter, making sure to keep any released liquid from the zucchini in the bowl.
12. Spread the zucchini to the edges of the platter and spoon the steak and sauce into the center.
13. Sprinkle with the chives and serve immediately.