Easy Beef Goulash
Easy Beef Goulash
Introduction
Welcome to my kitchen, where today we’re going to dive into the world of comforting and delicious Hungarian cuisine with an easy beef goulash recipe. Goulash is a hearty stew that originated in Hungary and has since become a beloved dish around the world. It’s a perfect choice for those cold winter nights when you crave something warm and satisfying.
But what makes this beef goulash recipe so special? Well, besides its incredible taste, it’s also incredibly easy to make. Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, you can whip up this dish and impress your family and friends. So let’s get started and discover how to make this mouthwatering beef goulash.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There are plenty of reasons why you’ll fall in love with this easy beef goulash recipe. First and foremost, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means less time spent on cleanup and more time enjoying your meal. Secondly, it’s packed with flavor thanks to the combination of tender beef, aromatic spices, and rich tomato sauce.
Another reason to love this recipe is its versatility. You can serve beef goulash on its own, with a side of rice or noodles, or even as a filling for sandwiches or wraps. It’s a complete meal that will satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Plus, goulash freezes well, so you can make a big batch and save some for later.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy beef goulash:
- 1.5 pounds beef stew meat, cubed
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Note: Feel free to customize this recipe by adding other vegetables like carrots or potatoes. You can also adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions for making this easy beef goulash:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices.
- Return the beef to the pot and add the diced bell peppers, diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaf. Stir everything together.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Remove the bay leaf from the pot. Taste the goulash and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- If desired, swirl in the sour cream to add a creamy touch to the goulash.
- Serve the beef goulash hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Pro tip: Goulash tastes even better the next day, so consider making it in advance and reheating it when you’re ready to serve.
Expert Tips for Success
Here are some expert tips to ensure that your beef goulash turns out perfectly:
– Use a well-marbled cut of beef, such as chuck or round, for the most tender and flavorful results.
– Don’t rush the browning process. Taking the time to brown the meat properly will add depth and richness to the goulash.
– For a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the goulash during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
– If you prefer a spicier goulash, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped chili pepper.
Variations and Substitutions
While this easy beef goulash recipe is delicious as is, feel free to get creative and customize it to your liking. Here are some ideas:
– For a vegetarian version, swap the beef with mushrooms or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
– Add diced carrots, potatoes, or butternut squash for extra heartiness and flavor.
– Experiment with different spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or thyme to create unique flavor profiles.
Serving Suggestions
Beef goulash is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to inspire you:
– Serve the goulash over cooked egg noodles or rice for a filling and satisfying meal.
– Pair it with a slice of crusty bread to mop up the delicious sauce.
– For a lighter option, serve the goulash over a bed of steamed vegetables or cauliflower rice.
FAQs
Q: Can I make beef goulash in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! Simply follow the recipe until step 4, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Q: Can I freeze beef goulash?
A: Yes, beef goulash freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bags. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw and reheat before serving.
Q: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: While beef is traditional, you can certainly use other meats like pork or lamb. Adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat is tender.
Final Thoughts
There you have it – an easy beef goulash recipe that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. The combination of tender beef, aromatic spices, and rich tomato sauce creates a dish that is both comforting and flavorful. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting a dinner party, this goulash is sure to impress.
So, don your apron, gather your ingredients, and let the aroma of this delicious Hungarian stew fill your kitchen. Enjoy the process of cooking and savor the final result. Bon appétit!
Easy Beef Goulash
A hearty and comforting Hungarian stew made with tender beef, aromatic spices, and rich tomato sauce. This easy beef goulash recipe is perfect for cold winter nights and is incredibly flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds beef stew meat, cubed
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/4 cup sour cream (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
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In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
-
In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
-
Add the paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices.
-
Return the beef to the pot and add the diced bell peppers, diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaf. Stir everything together.
-
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
-
Remove the bay leaf from the pot. Taste the goulash and adjust the seasoning if needed.
-
If desired, swirl in the sour cream to add a creamy touch to the goulash.
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Serve the beef goulash hot, garnished with fresh parsley.