A Hearty Classic: Simple Beef Goulash

Introduction

Beef goulash, a beloved and timeless dish, hails from the heart of Europe and has become a cherished meal in many households worldwide. Its rich history, robust flavors, and simple yet satisfying preparation make it a favorite for families, gatherings, and comfort food enthusiasts. In this exploration of beef goulash, we'll delve into the origins of this classic dish, uncover the secrets to creating a simple yet delectable version, and share tips for making it your own.

Ingredients for Simple Beef Goulash:

To make a simple yet delightful beef goulash, you'll need the following ingredients:

For the Beef Goulash:

2 pounds of beef chuck or stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 large onions, chopped
3 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons sweet paprika
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for added depth of flavor)
1 teaspoon caraway seeds
2 red bell peppers, diced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
4 cups beef broth
2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Optional Dumplings:

1 cup all-purpose flour
1 egg
A pinch of salt
Water (as needed)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let's dive into creating a delicious pot of simple beef goulash:

1. Brown the Beef

a. Heat the Oil

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You want a pot with a lid, as goulash simmers for an extended time.

b. Sear the Beef

Add the beef cubes to the hot oil and sear them on all sides until they develop a rich, brown crust. This step locks in flavor and juices. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

2. Sauté the Aromatics

a. In the same pot, add the chopped onions and garlic. Sauté them until they become soft and translucent.

3. Season the Goulash

a. Return the seared beef to the pot with the sautéed onions and garlic.

b. Add the sweet paprika, smoked paprika, and caraway seeds. Stir to coat the beef evenly with these aromatic spices.

4. Introduce the Peppers

a. Toss in the diced red bell peppers and stir them into the beef and spice mixture.

5. Enhance the Flavor

a. Stir in the tomato paste, ensuring it's evenly distributed.

6. Simmer

a. Pour in the beef broth, which will create a luscious base for your goulash.

b. Let the goulash simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender. Make sure to cover the pot during this time.

7. Add Potatoes

a. After the beef becomes tender, introduce the potato chunks to the pot. Continue simmering until the potatoes are cooked through, which should take approximately 30 minutes.

8. Season and Adjust

a. Taste your goulash and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.

9. Optional Dumplings

a. If you'd like to serve your goulash with traditional Hungarian dumplings, mix the flour, egg, a pinch of salt, and enough water to form a sticky dough. Drop small spoonfuls of this dough into the simmering goulash. Cover and cook for an additional 15 minutes.

Serving Beef Goulash

Beef goulash is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways:

Serve it as a stew in bowls, garnished with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
Accompany it with egg noodles, potatoes, or rice.
Pair it with a slice of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
Traditional Hungarian dumplings (nokedli) are a delightful addition.

Conclusion

Simple beef goulash is a timeless dish that pays homage to Hungary's culinary heritage while making its mark on tables worldwide. Whether enjoyed as a cozy family meal or served on special occasions, its rich and hearty flavors are sure to please. Feel free to experiment with the recipe, adjusting the spice level, or adding your favorite vegetables. With a pot of bubbling goulash on the stove, you'll not only savor the flavors of history but also create cherished culinary memories of your own.

Simple Beef Goulash