Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Betty Crocker-inspired Hungarian Goulash recipe is a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. It’s packed with rich flavors, tender beef, and vibrant vegetables – everything you need for a truly satisfying meal. This recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals that won't take hours to prepare. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this homemade cooking masterpiece!
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp paprika (Hungarian paprika is best, but regular works too)
- 1 tsp caraway seeds
- 1/2 tsp marjoram
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 large green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 large red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 (15 oz) can of kidney beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sear the beef: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear on all sides until browned. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
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Sauté aromatics: Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Bloom the spices: Stir in the paprika, caraway seeds, marjoram, and cayenne pepper (if using). Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to release their aromas. This step adds depth of flavor to your goulash!
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Combine ingredients: Return the beef to the pot. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir well to combine.
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Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1.5 hours, or until the beef is very tender. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld.
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Add vegetables: After 1.5 hours, add the bell peppers and potatoes. Continue to simmer for another 30-45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Stir in the kidney beans (if using) during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
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Season and serve: Season the goulash with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. This delicious dish pairs perfectly with crusty bread for soaking up all that flavorful sauce.
Cooking Tips for the Best Goulash:
- Use quality beef: Choosing a good cut of beef stew meat will make a big difference in the tenderness of your goulash.
- Don't rush the simmering: Allowing the goulash to simmer slowly for a longer period will result in a richer, more flavorful dish.
- Adjust the spices: Feel free to adjust the amount of spices to your liking. If you prefer a milder goulash, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables, such as carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms.
Variations:
- Spicy Goulash: Increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Vegetarian Goulash: Substitute the beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, or lentils.
- Creamy Goulash: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche before serving for a richer, creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: Approximately 30-40g
- Fat: Approximately 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-40g
This Hungarian Goulash recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures, making it a quick dinner idea that is both easy and satisfying. Enjoy this delicious and hearty meal! It's a fantastic addition to your collection of best recipes and will become a family favorite in no time.