Introduction
Old Fashioned Goulash is a classic comfort food dish that has been enjoyed by families for generations. This hearty and flavorful one-pot meal is perfect for cozy dinners and gatherings. The key ingredients in this dish include ground beef, pasta, tomatoes, and a blend of savory spices. The aroma of simmering goulash will fill your kitchen and evoke memories of home-cooked meals.
Goulash originated in Hungary and has since become a beloved dish in many cultures around the world. While there are many variations of goulash recipes, the old-fashioned version remains a favorite for its simplicity and rich flavors. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, making old-fashioned goulash is a rewarding experience that will delight your taste buds.
In this article, we will guide you through the ingredients you need, the step-by-step cooking process, variations to customize the dish to your liking, helpful tips for perfecting your goulash, and some frequently asked questions to ensure your goulash turns out delicious every time.
Get ready to embark on a culinary journey as we explore the world of Old Fashioned Goulash!
Ingredients
To make Old Fashioned Goulash, you will need the following ingredients:
1. 1 pound of ground beef
2. 1 large onion, chopped
3. 2 cloves of garlic, minced
4. 2 cups of beef broth
5. 1 can (15 ounces) of tomato sauce
6. 1 can (15 ounces) of diced tomatoes
7. 2 teaspoons of Italian seasoning
8. 2 teaspoons of paprika
Additional Ingredients:
9. 2 cups of uncooked elbow macaroni
10. Salt and pepper to taste
11. Shredded cheese for garnish (optional)
These ingredients can be easily found in your local grocery store, making Old Fashioned Goulash a convenient and budget-friendly meal option for any day of the week.
Steps
Follow these steps to prepare and cook Old Fashioned Goulash:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until they are softened and fragrant.
Season the meat mixture with salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Stir well to combine the flavors.
Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes to allow the spices to infuse into the meat.
2. Add the Liquid Ingredients:
Pour in the beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Stir everything together until well combined.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Taste the goulash and adjust the seasoning if needed. Add more salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference.
3. Cook the Pasta:
While the goulash is simmering, cook the elbow macaroni according to the package instructions until it is al dente. Drain the pasta and set it aside.
Once the goulash has thickened and the flavors have melded together, add the cooked macaroni to the pot. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
4. Serve and Garnish:
Remove the goulash from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes to allow it to thicken slightly.
Serve the Old Fashioned Goulash hot in bowls, garnished with shredded cheese if desired.
Enjoy this comforting and satisfying dish with your favorite bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Variations
Old Fashioned Goulash is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit your preferences. Here are some variations you can try:
1. Vegetarian Option:
Substitute the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or additional vegetables like mushrooms and bell peppers for a vegetarian version of goulash.
Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a meat-free alternative.
2. Spicy Twist:
Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes to the goulash for a spicy kick. You can also incorporate diced jalapeños or green chilies for extra heat.
3. Cheesy Goulash:
Stir in shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese into the goulash just before serving for a gooey and cheesy variation.
Sprinkle more cheese on top as a garnish for an indulgent twist.
4. Mediterranean Flavors:
Enhance the goulash with Mediterranean herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme for a fresh and herbaceous taste.
Add olives, artichoke hearts, or sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean-inspired twist.
Tips
Here are some tips to elevate your Old Fashioned Goulash:
1. Browning the Meat:
Ensure the ground beef is well-browned to develop rich flavors in the goulash.
Use lean ground beef to minimize excess fat in the dish.
Consider using ground turkey or chicken as a healthier alternative.
2. Simmering Time:
Allow the goulash to simmer for an adequate amount of time to allow the flavors to meld together.
The longer the goulash simmers, the more flavorful it will become.
Stir the goulash occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
3. Pasta Texture:
Cook the pasta separately and add it to the goulash just before serving to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Choose a sturdy pasta shape like elbow macaroni that can hold up well in the hearty goulash.
4. Garnishing:
Experiment with different garnishes like fresh herbs, chopped green onions, or a dollop of sour cream to enhance the presentation and flavor of the goulash.
Customize the dish with your favorite toppings to make it your own.
Conclusion
Old Fashioned Goulash is a timeless recipe that brings warmth and comfort to the table. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Whether you follow the classic recipe or add your own twist, goulash is sure to satisfy your hunger and soothe your soul.
So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the aroma of simmering goulash fill your home with anticipation. Serve up a steaming bowl of Old Fashioned Goulash to your loved ones and bask in the joy of sharing a delicious meal together.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about Old Fashioned Goulash:
Q: Can I make goulash ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the goulash ahead of time and reheat it before serving. Store the cooled goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze leftover goulash?
A: Absolutely! Old Fashioned Goulash freezes well. Allow the goulash to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: What side dishes pair well with goulash?
A: Old Fashioned Goulash pairs beautifully with a simple green salad, garlic bread, steamed vegetables, or crusty bread for soaking up the delicious sauce. Choose sides that complement the hearty and savory flavors of the goulash.
Q: Can I make goulash in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can adapt the recipe to cook Old Fashioned Goulash in a slow cooker. Brown the ground beef and onions before transferring them to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the flavors meld together.
Old Fashioned Goulash
Old-Fashioned Goulash is a classic comfort food dish made with ground beef, pasta, tomatoes, and savory spices. This hearty and flavorful one-pot meal is perfect for cozy dinners and gatherings, evoking memories of home-cooked meals.
Ingredients
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1 pound ground beef
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1 large onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 cups beef broth
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1 can (15 ounces) tomato sauce
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1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
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2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
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2 teaspoons paprika
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2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Shredded cheese for garnish (optional)
Directions
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In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Add onion, garlic, salt, pepper, Italian seasoning, and paprika. Simmer for a few minutes.
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Add beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes.
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Cook elbow macaroni according to package instructions. Add to the goulash once thickened. Stir gently.
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Let the goulash sit to thicken slightly. Serve hot, garnished with shredded cheese if desired.
