Introduction
Dive into the heart of Eastern European cuisine with this delightful beef goulash recipe. A comforting and hearty dish, goulash is known for its rich flavors and tender beef, making it perfect for cozy dinners. This recipe combines simple ingredients to create a warming stew that will satisfy your taste buds and warm your soul.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 kg (2 lb) beef chuck, cut into 3.5 cm (1.5″) cubes
1¾ tsp cooking salt or kosher salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp (30 g) unsalted butter
2 brown onions, cut into 1 cm (½”) squares
5 garlic cloves, finely minced
2 capsicum/bell peppers (1 red and 1 yellow), cut into 2 cm (0.8″) squares
2 tomatoes, cut into 8 wedges then halved
¼ cup Hungarian-style paprika (or ordinary paprika)
1 tsp caraway seeds (optional)
1 bay leaf
1 liter (4 cups) low-sodium beef stock/broth
2 carrots, peeled, quartered lengthwise, then cut into 1 cm (0.4″) pieces
2 potatoes, cut into 1.2 cm (½”) cubes
1 tbsp finely chopped parsley (optional garnish)
Prep Time
20 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Yield: Serves 6-8
Enjoy the process of preparing this delicious beef goulash, which not only fills your kitchen with inviting aromas but also brings people together around the table. Whether you serve it with crusty bread or over rice, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F) or 160°C (320°F) for fan-forced ovens.
Step 2: Season the Beef
In a large mixing bowl, season the beef cubes with half of the salt and pepper. Ensure all pieces are evenly coated.
Step 3: Heat the Dutch Oven
In a large, oven-proof Dutch oven, heat the extra virgin olive oil and melt the unsalted butter over high heat until hot but not smoking.
Step 4: Cook the Onions
Add the diced onions to the pot and cook for approximately 6 minutes, stirring occasionally until the edges turn light golden.
Step 5: Brown the Beef
Add the seasoned beef cubes to the pot. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes, until the outside of the beef changes from red to a brown color.
Step 6: Add Vegetables
Incorporate the minced garlic, capsicum, and tomato wedges into the mixture. Stir everything together for about 3 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down mostly.
Step 7: Add Spices
Stir in the Hungarian paprika and caraway seeds, if using, along with the bay leaf. Mix for an additional 30 seconds to release the flavors.
Step 8: Pour in Beef Stock
Carefully pour the low-sodium beef stock into the pot, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 9: Cover and Bake
Cover the pot with a lid and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 1½ hours.
Step 10: Check Beef Tenderness
After baking, check the beef. It should be tender but not falling apart.
Step 11: Add Carrots and Potatoes
Stir in the quartered carrots and cubed potatoes, mixing them well with the beef and sauce.
Step 12: Continue Baking
Return the covered pot to the oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes.
Step 13: Final Tenderness Check
Check again for beef tenderness. If it is not fall-apart tender, continue to cook for 10-minute intervals until the desired tenderness is reached.
Step 14: Serve the Goulash
Ladle the goulash into bowls, sprinkle with finely chopped parsley for garnish if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
Note 1: Beef Cut
Using beef chuck is ideal for this recipe as it becomes tender and flavorful during slow cooking.
Note 2: Onion Cooking Time
Monitor the onions closely to ensure they do not burn; adjust heat if necessary.
Note 3: Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
Note 4: Spice Adjustments
Feel free to adjust the amount of paprika and black pepper according to your spice preference.
Cook techniques
Searing the Beef
Searing the beef cubes over high heat caramelizes the surface, enhancing flavor and creating a rich, golden crust.
Sweating the Onions
Cooking onions until lightly golden helps to build a flavor base for the goulash, releasing their natural sweetness.
Deglazing the Pot
Adding ingredients like garlic, capsicum, and tomatoes after searing helps deglaze the pot, incorporating flavorful bits stuck to the bottom.
Simmering
Simmering the mixture before transferring to the oven allows flavors to meld together and begins the tenderizing process for the beef.
Oven Braising
Cooking the goulash in the oven at a controlled temperature ensures even cooking and allows the beef to become tender through slow braising.
Adding Vegetables Gradually
Incorporating carrots and potatoes halfway through cooking adjusts their texture, ensuring they remain firm and flavorful rather than mushy.
Checking Doneness
Regularly checking the tenderness of the beef towards the end of cooking ensures it achieves the desired fall-apart quality.
FAQ
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, other cuts like brisket or round can be used, but they may require different cooking times for tenderness.
What can I substitute for paprika?
If you don’t have paprika, you can use chili powder or a mix of sweet and smoked paprika for similar depth of flavor.
Is it necessary to add caraway seeds?
Caraway seeds are optional; they add a unique flavor but can be omitted if not available.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Yes, this goulash can be adapted for a slow cooker; cook on low for 6-8 hours for tender results.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store any leftover goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Conclusion
The beef goulash prepared using this recipe is a hearty, flavorful dish that showcases the robust taste of tender beef complemented by aromatic vegetables and spices. Its slow-cooked nature not only brings a satisfying warmth but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making it an ideal meal for gatherings or a comforting family dinner. With a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can create a comforting meal that is sure to please.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Goulash
Replace the beef with a mix of mushrooms, zucchini, and eggplant for a hearty vegetarian option. Use vegetable broth instead of beef stock, and feel free to add more spices for added depth.
Beef Stew with Red Wine
Add a cup of red wine to the beef stock for a richer flavor. This addition will enhance the robustness of the goulash, making it even more luxurious.
Spicy Goulash
Incorporate some chopped chilies or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give the dish a kick. This variation is perfect for those who enjoy a spicy twist on classic recipes.
Goulash Soup
Increase the amount of stock to make a hearty goulash soup. Serve it in bowls with a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.
Stuffed Peppers
Use leftover goulash to fill bell peppers, then bake them until the peppers are tender. Top with cheese before baking for a delicious twist.
