Introduction
Classic Goulash is a comforting and flavorful dish that originated in Hungary but has become a beloved staple in many households around the world. This hearty meal typically consists of tender beef, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, all simmered together to create a rich and satisfying stew. Easy Classic Goulash is a simplified version of the traditional recipe, perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving a cozy homemade meal.
Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, this Easy Classic Goulash recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can whip up a delicious and comforting meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
In this article, we will walk you through the key ingredients you’ll need, the step-by-step instructions to prepare this dish, some variations to customize the recipe to your liking, helpful tips for perfecting your goulash, and finally, some frequently asked questions to address any queries you may have. Let’s dive in and start cooking up a batch of Easy Classic Goulash!
Ingredients
To make Easy Classic Goulash, you will need the following ingredients:
1. 2 pounds of ground beef
2. 1 large onion, chopped
3. 3 cloves of garlic, minced
4. 2 cans (14.5 oz each) of diced tomatoes
5. 2 cups of beef broth
6. 2 teaspoons of paprika
7. 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
8. 1 teaspoon of dried basil
9. Salt and pepper to taste
Steps
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and beef broth. Add the paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the goulash simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the Easy Classic Goulash hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy!
Variations
There are endless ways to customize Easy Classic Goulash to suit your preferences:
– Add diced bell peppers or carrots for extra vegetables.
– Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.
– Spice it up with a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
– Stir in a can of drained kidney beans or corn for added texture and flavor.
Feel free to get creative and experiment with different ingredients to make this Easy Classic Goulash your own unique creation!
Tips
Here are some tips to help you perfect your Easy Classic Goulash:
– For extra depth of flavor, consider browning the ground beef in batches instead of all at once.
– Allow the goulash to simmer low and slow to allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
– Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
– Serve the goulash over cooked pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a complete and satisfying meal.
Conclusion
Easy Classic Goulash is a timeless dish that is simple to prepare yet full of robust flavors that will delight your taste buds. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving a cozy meal at home, this recipe is a winner every time. With minimal effort and maximum taste, Easy Classic Goulash is sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation.
So, gather your ingredients, follow the easy steps, and savor the delicious results of this hearty and comforting dish. Enjoy your homemade Easy Classic Goulash with loved ones and bask in the warmth and satisfaction it brings to the table.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a slow cooker to make Easy Classic Goulash?
A: Yes, you can brown the ground beef and onions, then transfer everything to a slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Q: Is it necessary to use ground beef, or can I use another protein?
A: While traditional goulash is made with beef, you can certainly substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Q: Can I make Easy Classic Goulash ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! In fact, the flavors tend to develop even more if you make it a day in advance. Simply reheat before serving.
Q: What side dishes pair well with Easy Classic Goulash?
A: This dish goes well with a side of crusty bread, a simple green salad, or steamed vegetables. You can also serve it over noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes.
Easy Classic Goulash
A simplified version of the traditional Hungarian dish, this Easy Classic Goulash is a comforting and flavorful stew made with ground beef, onions, tomatoes, and a blend of spices. Perfect for a cozy homemade meal.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
-
In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
-
Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
-
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices and beef broth. Add paprika, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
-
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let the goulash simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
-
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
