Introduction
Welcome to this quick and easy goulash recipe! Goulash is a traditional Hungarian dish that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for those chilly evenings. This recipe will guide you through the steps of making a delicious goulash from scratch, using simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends. So, let’s get started!
Ingredients
For this goulash recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1.5 pounds of beef stew meat, cubed
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of sweet paprika
– 1 teaspoon of caraway seeds
– 4 cups of beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Steps
Now that we have all our ingredients ready, let’s start cooking:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the beef stew meat to the pot and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meat from the pot and set it aside.
3. In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
4. Stir in the sweet paprika and caraway seeds, coating the onions and garlic evenly.
5. Return the browned beef stew meat to the pot and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
6. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes, ensuring that the meat is fully submerged.
7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 1.5 hours, or until the meat is tender.
8. After 1.5 hours, add the diced potatoes and sliced carrots to the pot. Continue simmering for an additional 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are cooked through.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Variations
Goulash is a versatile dish, and you can customize it according to your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
– Add bell peppers: For a pop of color and extra flavor, sauté some diced bell peppers along with the onions and garlic.
– Use different meats: While beef is the traditional choice for goulash, you can also use pork or lamb for a different twist.
– Add spices: If you like your goulash to be spicier, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
Tips
Here are some tips to help you make the perfect goulash:
– Brown the meat: Browning the beef stew meat before simmering it in the pot adds depth of flavor to the goulash.
– Let it simmer: Goulash tastes even better when it is allowed to simmer for a longer time. The slow cooking process helps to tenderize the meat and allows the flavors to meld together.
– Serve with crusty bread: Goulash is traditionally served with a slice of crusty bread or over egg noodles. The bread or noodles help to soak up the delicious sauce.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have successfully made a delicious goulash using this quick and easy recipe. Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting warmth of this Hungarian classic. Serve it to your loved ones on a cold winter night or any time you crave a hearty and satisfying meal. Bon appétit!
FAQs
Q: Can I make goulash in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! To make goulash in a slow cooker, follow the same steps for browning the meat and sautéing the onions and garlic. Then, transfer everything to the slow cooker, add the remaining ingredients, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Q: Can I freeze leftover goulash?
A: Yes, goulash freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it up on the stove or in the microwave.
Q: Can I use different vegetables in goulash?
A: Absolutely! Goulash is a versatile dish, and you can add or substitute vegetables according to your preference. Some other vegetables that work well in goulash include mushrooms, peas, and green beans.
