Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal that's both satisfying and relatively easy to make? Then look no further! This goulash recipe is a family favorite, perfect for a chilly evening or a weekend dinner. It's a delicious blend of tender beef, rich tomatoes, and aromatic spices that will have everyone asking for seconds. Forget complicated recipes; this one is surprisingly simple, even for beginner cooks, proving that delicious homemade food doesn't have to be difficult. This recipe is perfect for those seeking easy recipes, healthy meals, or quick dinner ideas.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
- 15 oz can tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp paprika (sweet or smoked, to your preference)
- 1 tsp caraway seeds
- 1 tsp marjoram
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lb small pasta (such as elbow macaroni or ditalini) – optional
Instructions:
Step 1: Browning the Beef
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. This step helps develop a rich flavor. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables
Add the chopped onion and bell peppers to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Building the Flavor
Stir in the paprika, caraway seeds, marjoram, and thyme. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and release their aroma. This simple step significantly enhances the overall flavor of your goulash.
Step 4: Combining Ingredients
Return the beef to the pot. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and bay leaf. Season generously with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1.5 hours, or until the beef is very tender. The longer it simmers, the more delicious it becomes!
Step 5: Finishing Touches (Optional Pasta)
If using pasta, cook it according to package directions. Once the beef is tender, stir in the cooked pasta and let it heat through.
Step 6: Serving
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt, if desired. This hearty and flavorful goulash is best enjoyed with crusty bread for sopping up the delicious sauce.
Cooking Tips for the Best Goulash:
- For a richer flavor, use a combination of sweet and smoked paprika.
- Don't be afraid to adjust the spices to your liking. A pinch of cayenne pepper can add a nice kick.
- For a thicker goulash, simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Leftovers are even better the next day! The flavors meld beautifully overnight.
Variations:
- Chicken Goulash: Substitute 1.5 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs for the beef. Reduce the cooking time accordingly.
- Vegetarian Goulash: Omit the meat and add 1 cup of lentils or 1 cup of chopped mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Spicy Goulash: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicier kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, without pasta):
This information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This easy goulash recipe is a perfect example of delicious dishes that don’t require hours in the kitchen. It's a great option for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. Enjoy!