Low Carb Baked Beef Stroganoff

Note from Cheri: This recipe was given to us by our friend April S. Fields, author of the fabulous book 101 Low-Carb & Sugar-free Dessert Recipes. This recipe is part of a collection April shared in a fascintating article about understanding low carb diets. Click here for that story. Click here for lots more low carb recipes!

2 pounds lean sirloin cut into bite-sized pieces salt & pepper 1 tablespoon whole wheat flour 5 tablespoons butter 1 cup beef stock 1 cup sour cream 2 tablespoons tomato paste 2 tablespoons dry minced onion 1 clove garlic minced 2 cups grated Cheddar cheese deep fried spinach for garnish

Makes 6 Servings Pre-heat oven to 350° degrees. Season the beef pieces with salt and pepper and set aside. Blend flour and 2 tablespoons melted butter. Cook over low heat in heavy medium saucepan until mixture bubbles and is smooth. Gradually whisk in beef stock. Cook until mixture begins to thicken. Boil for 2 minutes, add sour cream, tomato paste, garlic and onion. Stir to blend, turn off heat and set aside. Brown beef in remaining butter. Transfer to a Pyrex bake dish and spoon the sauce completely over the beef. Top with grated cheese. Bake for 30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbling and beginning to brown. Garnish with (see below). Add Butter Dumplings for those in maintenance. Deep Fried Spinach Heat olive oil in small deep fat fryer. Drop handful of spinach into hot oil until it is crispy. Remove with slotted spoon to drain on paper towel. Use to garnish Stroganoff or other casseroles. Less than 1 net carb per serving. Total carbs: 18 Per serving: 3