why make this recipe
Beef goulash is a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out. It brings together tender chunks of beef, rich spices, and colorful vegetables to create a hearty meal. This recipe is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy night in. Plus, with its deep flavors and satisfying textures, it’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table.
how to make Rich and Savory Beef Goulash
Ingredients :
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons sweet paprika (preferably Hungarian)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds, crushed
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for serving, optional)
Directions :
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the 2 pounds of beef chuck. Sear the beef for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. This step is crucial as it locks in flavor; avoid overcrowding the pot to ensure even browning.
- Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside. In the same pot, add the 2 medium chopped onions. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until they are translucent and softened. Stir frequently to prevent burning.
- Add the 4 minced garlic cloves to the onions and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant. You’ll know it’s ready when the garlic becomes aromatic but not browned, which can make it bitter.
- Stir in the 2 tablespoons of sweet paprika, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of crushed caraway seeds, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper. Cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute, stirring constantly to toast the spices and enhance their flavors.
- Return the beef to the pot and add the 2 cups of beef broth, 1 can of undrained diced tomatoes, 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, and 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Add the 2 bay leaves, 2 sliced carrots, and 1 diced bell pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s done when the beef is fork-tender and the sauce has thickened.
- In the last 10 minutes of cooking, stir in 1 cup of frozen peas for a pop of color and sweetness. Remove the bay leaves before serving. The goulash should be thick and rich, with a luscious sauce that clings to the beef and vegetables.
how to serve Rich and Savory Beef Goulash
Serve the beef goulash hot, garnished with fresh parsley. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or over a bed of egg noodles or rice. Adding a dollop of sour cream on top can also enhance the flavors and add creaminess.
how to store Rich and Savory Beef Goulash
Allow any leftovers to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove until warmed through.
tips to make Rich and Savory Beef Goulash
- Make sure to sear the beef well; this adds depth to the flavor.
- Use high-quality spices for the best taste, especially the paprika.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like potatoes or mushrooms for additional texture and flavor.
- Adjust the cayenne if you prefer a milder or spicier goulash.
variation
You can switch the beef for pork or chicken if you prefer; just adjust the cooking times as necessary. Additionally, using different vegetables, like zucchini or peas, can create a unique twist while keeping the main flavors consistent.
FAQs
Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
Yes, you can brown the beef in a pan first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Is it okay to make goulash ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, the flavors improve over time. You may want to make it a day before serving for even better flavor.
Can I substitute fresh herbs for dried ones?
Yes, fresh herbs can be used, but you will need to use about three times the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
Rich and Savory Beef Goulash
- Total Time: 105 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting dish with tender beef, rich spices, and colorful vegetables, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons sweet paprika (preferably Hungarian)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds, crushed
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for serving, optional)
Instructions
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef chuck and sear for about 5-7 minutes, turning until browned on all sides.
- Remove the beef and set aside. In the same pot, add the chopped onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent.
- Add the garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Stir in the sweet paprika, smoked paprika, crushed caraway seeds, dried thyme, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper, and cook for about 30 seconds to 1 minute.
- Return the beef to the pot and add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir well to combine.
- Add the bay leaves, sliced carrots, and diced bell pepper, and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 90 minutes.
- In the last 10 minutes, stir in the frozen peas. Remove bay leaves before serving.
Notes
Serve with crusty bread or over egg noodles or rice. Adding sour cream on top enhances flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Hungarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 100mg
