This beef goulash recipe, a classic Hungarian dish, is a true comfort food that warms the soul. This hearty stew combines tender beef, flavorful spices, and a rich tomato-based sauce. If you’re craving a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying, look no further. Our beef goulash recipe will take you on a culinary journey to Hungary, right in your own kitchen. It’s a crowd-pleaser, easy to prepare, and perfect for those chilly nights when you need a bowl of warm goodness.

Beef Goulash Recipe

Savor the rich flavors of Hungary with our hearty beef goulash recipe. A comforting dish that's easy to make and sure to impress!

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 2 45

Total Time 3 5

Servings 6

Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients

2 pounds of beef stew meat cut into chunks
2 large onions chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 tablespoons paprika
1 teaspoon caraway seeds
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper adjust to taste
1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
2 cups beef broth
2 red bell peppers chopped
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 bay leaves

Instructions

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onions and garlic; sauté until soft.
Stir in paprika, caraway seeds, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
Add beef and brown on all sides.
Mix in diced tomatoes, beef broth, red bell peppers, tomato paste, and bay leaves.
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 2-3 hours until the beef is tender.
Serve hot over egg noodles, rice, or with crusty bread.

Notes

Choosing the Right Meat: For the best results, select beef stew meat with some marbling. This will ensure a tender and flavorful goulash. Feel free to use beef chuck, round, or any other suitable cut.
Cutting the Meat: When cutting the meat into chunks, aim for uniform sizes to ensure even cooking. Pieces that are about 1 to 1.5 inches in size work well.
Adjusting the Spices: The spiciness of your goulash can be tailored to your preference. If you enjoy a milder dish, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper. Conversely, if you like it spicier, add a bit more.
Tomato Paste Thickness: Depending on your preferred thickness for the sauce, you can adjust the amount of tomato paste. For a thicker goulash, use more; for a thinner sauce, use less.
Cooking Time: While the recipe suggests a cooking time of 2-3 hours, the key is to cook the beef until it's tender and easily falls apart. Some cuts of meat may require more or less time, so keep an eye on it as it simmers.
Make It Ahead: Beef goulash is a fantastic make-ahead dish. In fact, it often tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had a chance to meld. Simply refrigerate and reheat when you're ready to enjoy it.
Freezing: This dish is freezer-friendly. If you have leftovers or want to prepare a batch for later, allow it to cool completely, portion it into airtight containers, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator and reheat when needed.
Serving Suggestions: While egg noodles are the classic choice for serving, don't hesitate to get creative with your sides. Rice, mashed potatoes, or even a simple green salad can complement the goulash beautifully.
Garnish: Sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley or a dollop of sour cream on top just before serving for an extra touch of flavor and presentation.
Variations: Beef goulash is a versatile dish. You can add other vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers for added depth and texture. Experiment with different spices to suit your taste.

Remember that recipes like beef goulash often become family favorites with a bit of personalization. Feel free to adjust ingredients and techniques to make it your own special dish.

Why Make Beef Goulash Recipe?

Beef goulash is a delightful dish that combines the flavors of tender beef, aromatic spices, and a rich tomato sauce. It’s a comforting meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table. Plus, it’s an excellent way to explore the culinary traditions of Hungary without leaving home.

How Difficult Is It To Make Beef Goulash Recipe?

While it may sound exotic, making beef goulash is surprisingly easy. It involves simple ingredients and basic cooking techniques. With our step-by-step instructions, even novice chefs can create a delicious goulash.

How Does Beef Goulash Recipe Taste?

Beef goulash offers a harmonious blend of savory, smoky, and slightly spicy flavors. The tender beef, stewed to perfection, absorbs the essence of the spices and the tomato-based sauce. Each bite is a hearty, comforting experience that leaves you craving more.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, you can use any other meat, or even mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

Is goulash spicy?

The level of spiciness can be adjusted to your taste by altering the amount of cayenne pepper used.

What side dishes go well with beef goulash?

Traditionally, it’s served with egg noodles, rice, or crusty bread. You can also enjoy it with mashed potatoes or steamed vegetables.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, beef goulash tastes even better the next day, so it’s a great make-ahead dish.

Is it freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! You can freeze beef goulash for up to three months. Just thaw and reheat when ready to eat.

Try This Beef Goulash Recipe

This beef goulash recipe is a culinary gem that combines simplicity with incredible flavor. Whether you’re a fan of Hungarian cuisine or seeking a comforting, hearty meal, this recipe won’t disappoint. Give it a try, and you’ll have a new favorite dish in no time. Enjoy the rich, smoky goodness of beef goulash right at your own dining table.