Are you looking for a delicious and satisfying meal that's perfect for a chilly evening? Look no further than this hearty Polish Goulash recipe! This isn't your typical goulash; it boasts a unique blend of Polish flavors, making it a truly special and comforting dish. It’s surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a busy weeknight, and impressive enough for a weekend gathering. Get ready to experience the warmth and richness of this amazing homemade cooking creation!
Ingredients: A Symphony of Polish Flavors
This recipe serves 4-6 people and takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes to prepare and cook. Adjust quantities as needed for your group size.
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp sweet paprika
- 1 tsp dried marjoram
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup chopped fresh dill
- Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions: Your Guide to Goulash Perfection
This simple recipe breaks down the cooking process into easily manageable steps.
Step 1: Searing the Beef: Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Sear the beef in batches until nicely browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Building the Flavor Base: Add the smoked paprika, sweet paprika, marjoram, thyme, and bay leaf to the pot. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and release their aroma. This step adds a layer of depth to the flavor of your delicious dishes.
Step 4: Combining the Ingredients: Return the seared beef to the pot. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, tomato paste, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the beef is very tender.
Step 5: Adding Potatoes and Dill: Add the cubed potatoes to the pot during the last 30 minutes of simmering. Stir in the fresh dill during the final 5 minutes of cooking. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
Tips and Tricks for Goulash Success
- For a richer flavor, use bone-in beef stew meat.
- If you prefer a thicker goulash, you can mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the goulash during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- Don't be afraid to experiment with different spice combinations. A pinch of caraway seeds can add a lovely Polish touch.
- Serve your goulash with crusty bread or dumplings for a truly satisfying meal.
Variations: Explore the World of Polish Goulash
- Spicy Goulash: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a kick.
- Vegetarian Goulash: Substitute the beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, eggplant, or lentils.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 400-450
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 30-35g
This Polish Goulash recipe is a fantastic example of easy recipes and healthy meals that are both delicious and satisfying. Enjoy this quick dinner idea and impress your friends and family with your homemade cooking skills! It’s sure to become one of your best recipes.