Beef Stroganoff is a dish that evokes warmth and comfort, a timeless classic gracing dinner tables for generations. Known for its rich, creamy sauce and tender beef, it’s often served over egg noodles, creating a satisfying and complete meal. However, when it comes to Pioneer Woman’s take on this beloved dish, there’s a slight, yet intriguing, deviation from the norm.
Traditionally, Stroganoff and egg noodles are almost inseparable. The soft, yielding texture of egg noodles provides the perfect bed for the creamy, savory stroganoff, soaking up all the delicious sauce. This combination is what many consider the quintessential Stroganoff experience. So, it might come as a surprise that Ree Drummond, the Pioneer Woman herself, doesn’t explicitly include pasta in her main Beef Stroganoff recipe. Instead, she offers a delightful side dish suggestion: Buttered Parsley Noodles.
These aren’t your average buttered noodles. Pioneer Woman elevates this simple side with the addition of garlic, lemon zest and juice, and fresh parsley, creating a vibrant and flavorful accompaniment. Her recipe calls for pappardelle, a wide, ribbon-like pasta. Pappardelle offers a heartier bite compared to delicate egg noodles, bringing a different textural dimension to the meal. While egg noodles are soft and almost melt-in-your-mouth, pappardelle provides a more substantial chew.
The beauty of Buttered Parsley Noodles lies in their simplicity and speed. They are incredibly easy to prepare and come together quickly while your stroganoff simmers. The bright flavors of garlic and lemon zest cut through the richness of the stroganoff, offering a welcome contrast. The fresh parsley adds a touch of herbaceousness, completing the flavor profile.
While the original reviewer of the Buttered Parsley Noodles recipe felt that traditional egg noodles might have been a better fit with the Pioneer Woman’s Beef Stroganoff, the pappardelle and parsley variation offers a unique and flavorful alternative. It’s a testament to Pioneer Woman’s style – taking classic comfort food and adding a touch of her signature flair.
Ultimately, whether you choose to serve your Pioneer Woman Stroganoff with Buttered Parsley Noodles or stick to traditional egg noodles is a matter of personal preference. Both options provide a delicious base for this comforting dish. However, Pioneer Woman’s Buttered Parsley Noodles are certainly worth trying for a flavorful twist on a classic pairing and a chance to experience Stroganoff with a slightly more vibrant and less expected side. It’s a simple side dish with a sophisticated touch, perfectly embodying the spirit of Pioneer Woman’s approachable yet delicious cooking.
