Traditional Goulash: A Comprehensive Recipe Manual
Traditional goulash is a filling and cozy dish that generations have loved. Goulash, which has its origins in Central European cooking, is a filling dish made with tender beef, a hearty tomato sauce, and toasty spices. This recipe offers a classic version of goulash that is simple to prepare and ideal for gatherings with family.
Old-Fashioned Goulash: What Is It?
Traditional goulash usually consists of ground beef, pasta, tomatoes, and a mixture of seasonings, all prepared in a single pot. In contrast to its Hungarian equivalent, which emphasizes pieces of beef and paprika, this version is more typical in American homes and embodies traditional comfort cuisine.
Ingredients You’ll Need
In order to make a tasty pot of traditional goulash, collect the following ingredients:
Principal Components:
One pound of ground beef (or, for a leaner alternative, ground turkey)
One medium onion, chopped
Two to three minced garlic cloves
One 15-ounce can of chopped tomatoes
One 15-ounce can of tomato-based sauce
Two cups of beef broth (or beef bouillon-infused water)
Two cups of raw elbow macaroni
One tablespoon of soy sauce (optional; adds flavor depth)
Addition of seasonings:
One teaspoon of paprika
One teaspoon of Italian seasoning
Half a teaspoon of dried oregano
Half a teaspoon of black pepper
Add salt to taste.
You can optionally add 1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes for a little kick of heat.
Not required add-ons:
Cheddar cheese, shredded
Freshly chopped parsley
The method is in steps.
Step 1: Get the ingredients ready.
Chop the garlic and dice the onion.
To make cooking easier, measure out all of your ingredients and seasonings.
Brown the ground beef in step two.
Over medium heat, preheat a big saucepan or Dutch oven.
Break up the ground beef with a spoon after adding it and cooking it until it turns brown. It should take five to seven minutes.
After cooking, drain away any excess grease and lay the beef aside if necessary.
Step 3: Add the garlic and onion and sauté.
Add the chopped onion to the same saucepan and cook for 3–4 minutes, or until it becomes transparent.
Cook for another 30 seconds, or until aromatic, after adding the minced garlic.
Add the base ingredients in step four.
Put the ground beef back in the pot when it has browned.
Add the beef broth, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes (with their juice) and stir.
Add the Italian spice, oregano, black pepper, crushed red pepper flakes, paprika, and soy sauce.
Combine everything by thoroughly mixing it.
Step 5: Let the Sauce Simmer
The mixture should be brought to a moderate boil.
To allow the flavors to combine, lower the heat to low and simmer for ten minutes.
Cook the pasta in step six.
Put the elbow macaroni straight into the sauce-filled pot.
Make sure the pasta is completely immersed by stirring.
For 10 to 12 minutes, cook it over medium-low heat with a lid on, stirring regularly to keep it from sticking.
Step 7: Modify the seasoning.
If necessary, add extra salt, pepper, or spices after tasting the goulash.
Step 8: Present and add a garnish.
Turn off the heat as soon as the pasta is soft and the sauce has thickened.
If preferred, top the goulash with fresh parsley and shredded cheddar cheese after ladling it into dishes.
Serving Recommendations
Traditional goulash is adaptable and goes well with
You can pair it with dinner buns or crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
For a crisp, fresh contrast, try a green salad.
Use steamed vegetables such as green beans or broccoli to enhance the nutritional value.
How to Make the Greatest Goulash
Personalize the Protein: For a vegetarian or healthy alternative, use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat in place of ground beef.
Go Ahead: The flavors of goulash intensify the following day, making it even more delicious. To loosen the sauce, reheat it on the stovetop with a little broth.
Include vegetables: Add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms to the sautéing process for a healthy twist.
Double the recipe: This dish is ideal for meal planning because it stores nicely. Keep leftovers for up to three months in sealed containers.
In conclusion
A classic recipe that adds coziness and warmth to any table is traditional goulash. It’s easy to prepare, full of flavor, and customizable to your tastes. This recipe is likely to become a favorite whether you’re cooking for a large group of people or just your family. Savor each taste of this filling favorite and relish the nostalgic flavors!