Introduction
Southern goulash is a hearty and flavorful dish that originated in the southern United States. This comforting one-pot meal is often made with ground beef, tomatoes, and a variety of vegetables and spices. It’s the perfect dish for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering. In this article, we will explore the ingredients, steps, variations, tips, and frequently asked questions about making Southern goulash.
Ingredients
To make Southern goulash, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 green bell pepper, diced
– 2 cups diced tomatoes
– 2 cups elbow macaroni
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Steps
Follow these steps to make delicious Southern goulash:
1. Brown the Ground Beef
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks. Once the beef is cooked through, remove any excess fat.
2. Add the Onion, Garlic, and Bell Pepper
Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add the Tomatoes and Tomato Paste
Stir in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Add the Spices and Macaroni
Season the mixture with paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir in the elbow macaroni.
5. Pour in the Beef Broth
Pour the beef broth into the skillet, making sure it covers the macaroni and vegetables. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes or until the macaroni is cooked al dente.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Once the Southern goulash is cooked to perfection, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve it hot and enjoy the delicious flavors.
Variations
While the classic Southern goulash recipe is delicious on its own, you can also experiment with different variations to suit your taste:
1. Vegetarian Goulash
If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and replace it with your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant.
2. Spicy Goulash
If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeno pepper to the skillet when sautéing the vegetables.
3. Cheesy Goulash
For an extra indulgent dish, stir in some shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese before serving. Let it melt and get all gooey.
Tips
Here are some helpful tips to make the best Southern goulash:
– Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
– Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, carrots, or celery for added flavor and texture.
– Adjust the spices according to your preference. Add more paprika for a smoky flavor or more dried herbs for a fragrant dish.
– Serve the goulash with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Southern goulash is a classic comfort food that is loved by many. Its combination of ground beef, tomatoes, and spices creates a delicious and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or add your own twist, Southern goulash is sure to become a favorite in your home.
FAQs
Q: Can I make Southern goulash ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make Southern goulash ahead of time. Simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze Southern goulash?
A: Yes, Southern goulash can be frozen for up to 3 months. Place it in a freezer-safe container or bag and thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta?
A: Yes, you can use a different type of pasta if you prefer. Penne or rotini are great alternatives to elbow macaroni.
Southern Goulash
A hearty and flavorful Southern dish made with ground beef, tomatoes, vegetables, and spices, creating a comforting one-pot meal perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
-
1 pound ground beef
-
1 onion, diced
-
2 cloves garlic, minced
-
1 green bell pepper, diced
-
2 cups diced tomatoes
-
2 cups elbow macaroni
-
2 cups beef broth
-
1 tablespoon tomato paste
-
1 teaspoon paprika
-
1 teaspoon dried oregano
-
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
-
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
-
Brown the ground beef in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces. Remove excess fat once cooked.
-
Add diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the skillet with the ground beef. Cook until vegetables are softened.
-
Stir in diced tomatoes and tomato paste. Mix well.
-
Season with paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir in elbow macaroni.
-
Pour beef broth into the skillet, ensuring it covers the macaroni and vegetables. Bring to a boil, then simmer for about 15 minutes until macaroni is al dente.
-
Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve hot and enjoy.
