Beef Goulash Recipe

Introduction

Beef Goulash is a hearty, comforting dish that brings together tender beef, rich tomato-based sauce, and an array of aromatic spices. With its deep, savory flavors and satisfying texture, this classic Eastern European dish has made its way into many kitchens around the world. Perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings, Beef Goulash offers a flavorful twist on traditional stew, and its easy-to-make recipe will quickly become a favorite in your rotation.

The beauty of Beef Goulash lies in its versatility. While its roots are found in Hungarian cuisine, where paprika and other spices shine, many variations exist, depending on regional influences and personal preferences. This dish is incredibly customizable, whether you prefer it spicy, savory, or with extra vegetables. Served over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, it’s a filling and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

This guide will walk you through each step of making this delicious, flavorful dish. Along the way, you’ll find helpful tips, possible ingredient substitutions, and variations to make Beef Goulash your own.

Why You’ll Love Beef Goulash

• Rich, Deep Flavor: The combination of tender beef, tomatoes, and spices like paprika and garlic creates a hearty, rich base for this dish. The slow simmering process infuses the meat with intense flavors, making each bite more satisfying than the last.
• Comforting and Filling: Beef Goulash is the epitome of comfort food. The tender beef and savory broth provide a sense of warmth and satisfaction that’s perfect for chilly days, family dinners, or meal prep for the week.
• One-Pot Meal: This dish is simple to make in a single pot, making cleanup quick and easy. The one-pot method also allows the flavors to develop and meld together beautifully as it simmers.
• Customizable: Beef Goulash can be adapted to suit your tastes. Whether you want it spicier, more tangy, or with extra vegetables, this dish offers plenty of room for creativity while maintaining its classic charm.
• Perfect for Leftovers: Like many stews and soups, Beef Goulash actually tastes even better the next day. The flavors continue to meld, and it reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prepping or enjoying leftovers.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 6-8 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 400-450 calories per serving, depending on specific ingredients used.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 400-450 kcal
• Fat: 20-25g
• Carbohydrates: 30-35g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 6g

Ingredients

For the Beef Goulash:

• 1 lb beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes (or stew meat)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons sweet paprika (preferably Hungarian)
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 cups beef broth (low-sodium preferred)
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced (optional)
• 1 cup bell pepper, chopped (red or green)
• 1 cup carrots, chopped
• 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon vinegar (white or apple cider)
• Optional: 1 tablespoon flour (to thicken)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

For Serving (Optional):

• Egg noodles or rice
• Sour cream
• Fresh parsley or chives

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

Start by chopping the onion, garlic, bell pepper, carrots, and potatoes (if using). Cut the beef into 1-inch cubes and set everything aside. Having your ingredients prepped and ready will help streamline the cooking process and ensure everything cooks evenly.

2. Sear the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the beef cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the beef on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. The goal is to sear the beef to develop a rich flavor. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the onions become translucent and fragrant. This step builds the flavor base for the goulash. If there are any brown bits left from the beef, don’t worry—these bits will add even more flavor to the dish.

4. Add the Spices

Add the paprika, caraway seeds (if using), dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to coat the onions and garlic with the spices. Let the spices cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing them to release their aromatic oils and intensify the flavor.

5. Deglaze the Pot

Pour in the Worcestershire sauce and vinegar, scraping up any browned bits on the bottom of the pot. These flavorful bits, called fond, contribute to the depth of the soup. The vinegar will also help balance out the richness of the beef.

6. Combine the Tomatoes and Broth

Add the diced tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes), tomato paste, and beef broth to the pot. Stir everything together to create a rich, flavorful base. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, allowing the soup to simmer for 1 hour. During this time, the beef will become tender, and the flavors will meld together beautifully.

7. Add the Vegetables

After the goulash has simmered for an hour, add the diced potatoes, bell pepper, and carrots to the pot. These vegetables will add color, texture, and a slight sweetness to balance the richness of the beef and tomato base. Stir them in and continue simmering for an additional 20-30 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are fully developed.

8. Thicken the Soup (Optional)

If you prefer a thicker consistency for your goulash, you can make a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of flour with 2 tablespoons of water, then stirring it into the soup. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5-10 minutes until it thickens to your liking.

9. Adjust the Seasoning

Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or paprika if you prefer a stronger flavor. If you like a bit of acidity, you can add a splash more vinegar to brighten the dish.

10. Serve the Goulash

Ladle the Beef Goulash into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color. If you like, serve it over a bed of egg noodles or rice to make the meal more filling. You can also add a dollop of sour cream on top for extra creaminess and flavor.

Tips for Perfect Beef Goulash

• Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Beef chuck is ideal for goulash because it becomes tender and flavorful after slow cooking. Avoid lean cuts, as they won’t provide the same richness and texture.
• Use High-Quality Paprika: Paprika is the star spice of this dish, so using a high-quality, preferably Hungarian sweet paprika, will elevate the flavor. If you like heat, you can use smoked paprika or hot paprika.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you enjoy a spicier goulash, you can add some cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or a pinch of hot paprika. Adjust the seasoning to suit your taste.
• Add Vegetables for Texture: Feel free to experiment with adding different vegetables like parsnips, celery, or peas. The more veggies you add, the more textured and colorful the dish will be.
• Let It Simmer: The key to a flavorful goulash is slow simmering. Give the ingredients time to meld and develop their flavors. If you have time, let the goulash simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours for even more depth of flavor.

Variations of Beef Goulash

• Spicy Beef Goulash: For a fiery kick, you can add fresh chili peppers, hot paprika, or a dash of hot sauce. If you like heat, increase the cayenne or red pepper flakes to suit your preference.
• Vegetarian Goulash: Skip the beef and replace it with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, and zucchini. This vegetarian version is just as satisfying and delicious, especially with the rich, flavorful broth.
• Slow Cooker Beef Goulash: For a hands-off version, you can make Beef Goulash in a slow cooker. Brown the beef and sauté the vegetables first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4 hours.
• Beef Goulash with Noodles: Some variations of goulash incorporate egg noodles directly into the dish. Stir cooked egg noodles into the goulash towards the end of cooking for a one-pot meal. Alternatively, you can serve the soup over cooked noodles.
• Beef Goulash with Paprika Sauce: For an extra creamy version, stir in a few tablespoons of sour cream or heavy cream at the end of cooking. This adds a silky, rich texture to the goulash and makes it even more indulgent.

Storage and Shelf Life

Beef Goulash is a great dish to make ahead, and it stores well in the fridge and freezer:

• Refrigeration: Store leftover Beef Goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. When reheating, you can add a little extra broth or water to adjust the consistency.
• Freezing: You can freeze Beef Goulash for up to 3 months. Let the goulash cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm it on the stovetop.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Beef Goulash

Beef Goulash is a filling meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of side dishes:

• Bread: Serve with a crusty loaf of bread or a side of warm dinner rolls to soak up the rich, flavorful broth.
• Mashed Potatoes: For a more hearty option, Beef Goulash can be served over mashed potatoes, providing an additional layer of creaminess and texture.
• Green Salad: A fresh, simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the goulash and adds a crisp contrast to the dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted Brussels sprouts, carrots, or green beans complement the savory flavors of Beef Goulash and add more color and nutrients to your meal.

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Conclusion

Beef Goulash is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender beef, rich tomato-based broth, and fragrant spices, it’s sure to become a beloved family favorite. Whether you make it spicy, mild, or with added vegetables, this dish is highly customizable to suit your tastes. With a one-pot preparation, it’s also a convenient and easy meal to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or feeding a crowd. Enjoy the warmth and depth of Beef Goulash—it’s a satisfying dish that brings both comfort and flavor to your table.