Sečenica with Creamy Mushroom Sauce

Ingredients

• 4 beef cutlets (approximately 500g / 1.1 lb) 4 beef cutlets (approximately 500g / 1.1 lb)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (30g) 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (30g)
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml) 2 tablespoons olive oil (30ml)
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 250g (8.8 oz) mushrooms, sliced 250g (8.8 oz) mushrooms, sliced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 cup (240ml) beef broth 1 cup (240ml) beef broth
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1880 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 32g, 15g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 10g, 3g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 2g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a shallow dish, combine the flour, paprika, garlic powder, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. 2.
   Dredge the beef cutlets in the flour mixture, shaking off any excess.
3. 3.
   Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. 4.
   Add the beef cutlets to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until browned and cooked to your desired level of doneness. Remove the cutlets from the skillet and set aside.
5. 5.
   In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and sliced mushrooms. Cook until the mushrooms are golden brown and the onions are translucent.
6. 6.
   Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
7. 7.
   Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
8. 8.
   Stir in the heavy cream and simmer for another 2-3 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
9. 9.
   Return the beef cutlets to the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes, allowing them to heat through.
10. 10.
    Sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Beef cutlets — To ensure tender and juicy cutlets, use a meat tenderizer to pound the beef before seasoning and cooking.
• Mushrooms — Clean the mushrooms gently with a damp cloth or paper towel to remove any dirt or debris before slicing.

Tips & Tricks

• For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of red wine to the mushroom sauce.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water and add it to the sauce during the simmering process.
• Serve the Sečenica with a side of mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Feel free to customize the seasoning blend to your taste preferences by adding herbs like rosemary or oregano.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Serving advice

Serve the Sečenica with creamy mushroom sauce hot, garnished with fresh parsley. Pair it with a side of mashed potatoes or crusty bread to enjoy the full flavors of this Serbian delight.

Presentation advice

Arrange the Sečenica cutlets on a serving platter and generously spoon the creamy mushroom sauce over them. Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an elegant touch. Serve with a side of mashed potatoes or crusty bread to complete the presentation.