Beef Stroganoff, a Russian classic that won over the world, at the Gastronomic Rows of the National Centre RUSSIA

Tender pieces of beef in a creamy sauce, fluffy mashed potatoes and a crisp pickled cucumber — this is how the Gastronomic Rows of the National Centre RUSSIA serve one of the best-known dishes of Russian cuisine, Beef Stroganoff. Behind this seemingly familiar presentation lies the story of a dish that has remained a gastronomic hallmark of Russia for more than a century and a half.

Beef Stroganoff originated in the second half of the nineteenth century. According to one of the most widely accepted accounts, the recipe was created for Count Alexander Stroganov. The chefs combined French techniques for preparing meat with the Russian tradition of serving hot dishes with a rich sauce. This gave rise to a dish that quickly became popular first in Russia and then far beyond its borders. Today, Beef Stroganoff can be found on restaurant menus around the world, but the Russian version with tender beef and a creamy sauce is considered the classic.

The earliest recorded recipe for "Beef Stroganoff with Mustard" appeared in 1871 in Yelena Molokhovets' cookbook "A Gift to Young Housewives". In this version, the beef was cut into small pieces, quickly fried and served in a sauce made with broth, flour, mustard and sour cream. The original version of the dish contained no onions, mushrooms, cream or tomato paste.

Beef Stroganoff is traditionally served with mashed potatoes, which complement the flavour of the meat, while pickled cucumbers add a characteristic tang and make the combination even more distinctive.

Guests of the Gastronomic Rows of the National Centre RUSSIA can try this very version. After exploring the large-scale exposition "Journey Across Russia" or discovering products from regional makers at Department Store RUSSIA, visitors can pause here and try one of the most recognisable dishes of Russian cuisine. A children's playroom is available for families, allowing adults to relax over lunch while younger guests spend time in the play area.