Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that’s also surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further! This Mr. Food-inspired goulash recipe is a delicious, healthy, and satisfying dish perfect for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend gathering. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy prep times; this one-pot wonder is ready in under an hour, leaving you with more time to enjoy the delicious results. It’s a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a delicious dish that's sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings of this satisfying goulash.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon sweet Hungarian paprika (optional, for a deeper flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1/4 teaspoon marjoram
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 large green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup small pasta (like ditalini or elbow macaroni)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions: Easy as 1, 2, 3!
Get Started: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Brown the Beef: Add the beef cubes to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides. This step helps develop a rich flavor in your goulash.
Season and Simmer: Sprinkle the paprika (both sweet and regular, if using), caraway seeds, marjoram, salt, and pepper over the beef. Stir well to coat. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or until the beef is almost tender.
Add Vegetables and Pasta: Add the chopped bell peppers and cubed potatoes to the pot. Stir gently to combine. Continue to simmer for another 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender. Stir in the pasta during the last 10-12 minutes of cooking time, ensuring it’s fully cooked according to package directions.
Tips and Tricks for Goulash Perfection
- For a richer flavor: Sear the beef in batches to ensure proper browning. Don’t overcrowd the pot.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the beef with 1 pound of firm tofu, cubed, and adjust cooking time accordingly.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms.
- Slow Cooker Option: This recipe can easily be adapted for a slow cooker. Brown the beef as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Variations: Explore the Possibilities!
- Spicy Goulash: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Creamy Goulash: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche at the end for a creamy texture.
- Beef and Sausage Goulash: Add 1 pound of Italian sausage, removed from casings, along with the beef for extra flavor and protein.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 350-400 Protein: Approximately 25-30g Fat: Approximately 15-20g Carbohydrates: Approximately 30-35g
This hearty and flavorful goulash is a perfect example of easy recipes and healthy meals combined. It’s a quick dinner idea that's sure to impress your family and friends. Enjoy this delicious dish, and remember to share your culinary creations with us!