Shitake Butter Beef Dish: An Easy Yet Elegant Meal

A Brief History of Cooking with Shitake Mushrooms

Shitake mushrooms have been cultivated and used for millennia in East Asian cuisine, especially in China and Japan. They were historically associated with longevity and health. Shitakes first came to the West from Japan in the early 1900s.

Initially popular dried, fresh shitakes became more accessible in the 1980s and 90s. Their rich umami flavor and meaty texture soon earned them favor among chefs and home cooks. They are now common ingredients in simple yet elegant stir-fry dishes.

The Rising Popularity of Shitake Butter Beef

Pan frying sliced beef and shitakes in browned butter has risen in popularity in recent decades along with greater access to fresh mushrooms. The simple combination results in a fail-proof yet flavorful dish. Food media and bloggers have brought this restaurant-worthy meal into home kitchens thanks to its ease and nutrition.

Benefits of Cooking Beef with Shitakes

Pairing beef with shitake mushrooms provides several benefits:

Adds Savory Umami Flavor

- Shitakes impart a rich, meaty flavor.

Increases Satisfaction

- Makes beef feel heartier and more filling.

Boosts Nutrition

- Shitakes add vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

Quick Cooking Time

- Dish comes together in under 30 minutes.

Selecting High Quality Ingredients

Look for the following when purchasing ingredients:

Beef

- Flank, hanger, or skirt steak offer the best texture

Mushrooms

- Fresh, firm shitakes without slimy spots

Butter

- High quality butter with high fat content

Step-by-Step Recipe

Make this restaurant quality meal at home with ease:

Ingredients

• 1 lb flank steak, sliced thinly
• 8 oz fresh shitake mushrooms, sliced
• 3 tbsp butter, divided
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• Sesame seeds and scallions for garnish

Instructions

1. Pat beef dry and season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over high heat. Add beef and stir fry 1-2 mins.
3. Remove beef from skillet and add mushrooms. Cook 3-4 mins until softened.
4. Return beef to skillet and add garlic. Cook 1 min more.
5. Add soy sauce and remaining butter. Toss to coat.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and scallions.

Recipe Variations

Tailor this dish to your taste by trying:

Different Cuts of Beef

- Sirloin, ribeye, tenderloin

Other Mushrooms

- Oyster, cremini, maitake

Extra Vegetables

- Bell peppers, snap peas, baby bok choy

Noodles or Rice

- Serve over ramen, rice noodles, cauliflower rice

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs deliciously with:

Steamed Rice

- Jasmine, brown, or wild rice

Simple Greens

- Sauteed spinach, kale, or garlic broccoli

Storage and Reheating

For best results, serve immediately. To store:

• Refrigerate leftovers up to 4 days.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
• Add broth or water to moisten.

Conclusion

With just a handful of ingredients, you can create an elegant meal at home in minutes. The umami flavor of the shitake mushrooms beautifully complements the savory beef. Serve this restaurant-worthy dish any night of the week.

FAQs

Can you use white button mushrooms instead of shitakes?

Portobello or cremini mushrooms can substitute but won't offer the same rich umami flavor.

Is flank steak the best cut for this dish?

Flank, skirt, or hanger steak are ideal. Filet mignon can also be used.

Is searing the beef necessary?

Yes, getting a nice sear helps develop the flavor. Do not overcook the beef though.

Can you add other vegetables like peppers?

Yes, adding sliced bell peppers or bok choy while cooking creates a heartier dish.

Can you use soy sauce alternatives?

You can use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce.

Using basic ingredients like beef, mushrooms and butter you can create an impressive meal easily. The shitake mushroom flavor truly shines.