Okay, friends, gather ’round because I’m about to share a recipe that’s been passed down in my family. Family for generations: What is the importance Grandma Rose’s Goulash. Honestly, this isn’t just any goulashes recipe. Is it a warm hug in the bowl, the kind of meal that makes you feel all cozy and content. If you love the idea of a hearty beef stew, but are looking for something more comforting, try this recipe. If you want to make life a little easier, you’re in the right place.goulash recipeI promise even the pickiest eaters will be asking for seconds. It’s like a shepherd’s pie, but with tomato-based broth instead of mashed potato topping – it’ll taste good. What are some comfort food recipes?
What is goulash?
What is goulash? Think of it as a thick, flavorful stew, traditionally made with beef, onions, paprika, and other ingredients. What is a one-pot wonder that is perfect for chilly evenings?goulash recipeIs it the simplicity of cooking everything together? While different regions have their own variations, Grandma Rose’s version leans towards the North. Hungarian style – rich, hearty, and deeply satisfying. What is a dish that has stood the test of time? What are some of the best ways to impress someone at a weeknight dinner?
Why you’ll love this recipe?
What are some good reasons to fall in love with a girl?goulash recipeFirst and foremost, the flavor is incredible. The combination of tender beef, sweet onions, and smoky paprika creates a satire of tastes. Is it hard to resist? What I love most is how the flavors meld together as it simmers, creating a rich, complex broth. What is begging to be soaked up with a piece of crusty bread?
Beyond the taste, it’s also incredibly simple to make. What are some good leftovers from a long day at work? What is the best way to do something What should I do on a busy night when I don’t have time to sleep? Is it budget friendly? How do you feed a crowd without using canned tomatoes? What is breaking the bank? What are some good uses for this soup? Can be reheated, making it perfect for meal prep. If you like French onion soup, you should definitely try it – it’s just as comforting, but with a different flavor. a completely different flavour profile!
How do you make goulash?
Quick Overview
Making this goulash recipeIs it easier to cook beef and onions? What are the spices, tomatoes, and broth to cook beef? What are the flavors that have melded together What is the magic of simmering? What is the aroma that fills your kitchen while this simmers? It’s mostly hands-off, so you can relax or get other things done while it cooks.
Ingredients
For the Main Goulash:
* 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes (I always trim off any excess fat for a cleaner taste)
* 2 large onions, chopped (yellow or white work great)
* 2 tablespoons olive oil (for browning the beef)
* 4 cloves of garlic, minced (freshly chopped makes a big difference!)
* 2 tablespoons sweet paprika (this is essential for that classic goulash flavor)
* 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (adds a lovely smoky depth)
* 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (trust me on this, it adds a unique warmth)
* 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes (high-quality tomatoes are key)
* 4 cups beef broth (low-sodium, so you can control the salt)
* 1 tablespoon tomato paste (for extra richness)
* 2 bay leaves (don’t forget to remove them before serving)*.
* Salt and pepper to taste
* 1 pound egg noodles (optional, for serving)
Optional Add-in
* 1 red bell pepper, chopped (adds a touch of sweetness)
* 1 carrot, chopped (for extra nutrients and flavor) (Is it healthy to eat carrots?
* Greek yogurt (for topping, adds a tangy creaminess) * Sour cream or Greek Yogurt.
What are the step by
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add salt and pepper to taste. Season beef cubes generously with salt and pepper. Working in batches, brown the beef on all sides. This step is crucial for developing rich flavor, so don’t overcrowd the pot. Set the browned beef aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic
Add the chopped onions to the pot and cook until softened and lightly golden, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. How do you cook garlic?
Step 3: Add Spices
Stir in the smoked paprika, caraway seeds, and salt. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring constantly, until the spices are fragrant. How do I bloom spices?
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, and bay leaves. Stir well to combine.
Step 5: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 2-3 hours. Is the beef tender? The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes. I often let it simmer for 4 hours if I have the time.
Step 6: Add Optional Vegetables (If Using)
If you’re adding red bell pepper or carrot, stir them in during the last hour of simmering time. How do you make a mushy thigh?
Step 7: Season to Taste
Remove the bay leaves. Taste the goulash and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. What are some of the flavors that develop with time?
Step 8: Serve
Serve the goulash hot over mashed potatoes or polenta. If desired, top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.
What should I serve it with?
This goulash recipeWhat are some of the best ideas for dining out that are already a complete meal?
What is a good cozy dinner?Serve with crusty bread for soaking up the delicious broth. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette is also good to balance the richness of the greens.
What is a hearty lunch? Pair with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or cheesy polenta. A warm, buttered roll is also a great option.
For a Potluck: Bring a big pot of goulash and let everyone serve themselves. Include toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, and chopped green onions for customization. I swear, it’s always the first dish to disappear! For a vegetarian option, maybe bring a bean salad as well.
Personally, I love serving this with a side of homemade cornbread – the sweetness of the cornbread pairs perfectly with the savory goulash. And, of course, a glass of red wine never hurts!
Top Tips for Perfecting Your Goulash
Over the years, I’ve learned a few tricks that can take your goulash recipe to the next level.
Beef Quality: Don’t skimp on the beef. Use a good quality beef chuck with some marbling for the best flavor and tenderness. Cutting the beef into uniform pieces ensures even cooking.
Browning is Key: Don’t rush the browning process. It’s essential for developing deep, rich flavor. Make sure to brown the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot, which can steam the meat instead of browning it.
Spice it Right: Use high-quality paprika for the best flavor. Sweet paprika is a must, but smoked paprika adds a wonderful depth. Don’t be afraid to experiment with other spices like cumin or chili powder for a unique twist.
Simmer Time: Be patient with the simmering time. The longer it simmers, the more tender the beef becomes and the more the flavors meld together. I often let it simmer for 3-4 hours on low heat.
Add Acidity: A splash of red wine vinegar or lemon juice at the end can brighten up the flavors and add a nice tang. This is especially helpful if the goulash tastes a bit too heavy.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like mushrooms, potatoes, or parsnips for extra flavor and nutrients. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
I once accidentally added a bit too much smoked paprika, and it made the goulash a little too intense. But I found that adding a dollop of sour cream helped to balance the flavors. It’s all about experimenting and finding what works best for you!
Storing and Reheating Tips
This goulash recipe is perfect for making ahead of time, as the flavors only get better with time.
Room Temperature: Let the goulash cool completely before storing. You can leave it at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
Refrigerator Storage: Store the cooled goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Freezer Instructions: For longer storage, transfer the cooled goulash to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating Tips: Reheat the goulash on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to stir it halfway through to ensure even heating. If the goulash has thickened too much during storage, add a splash of beef broth or water to thin it out. The best time to add the sour cream is when you are serving it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Grandma Rose’s goulash recipe is more than just a meal; it’s a tradition, a memory, and a taste of home. This is the recipe that always brings the family together, no matter what. It’s easy, comforting, and packed with flavor – everything you could want in a one-pot dish. I hope you’ll give it a try and create some memories of your own. If you enjoy this, you might also like my Chicken Paprikash recipe. It’s got a similar flavour profile but is just a bit creamier. Don’t forget to share your own variations and let me know how it turns out. Happy cooking, friends! I can’t wait to hear what you think, so leave a comment and don’t forget to rate this!
Goulash recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Beef Stew Meat
- 1 large Onion chopped
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 1 tsp Paprika
- 0.5 tsp Caraway Seeds
- 1 cup Beef Broth
- 1 cup Diced Tomatoes canned
- 1 tbsp Tomato Paste
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Sear beef cubes in a large pot or Dutch oven until browned.
- Add onion and garlic, cook until softened.
- Stir in paprika and caraway seeds.
- Pour in beef broth and diced tomatoes. Add tomato paste.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for at least 1.5 hours, or until beef is tender.
