Beef Goulash with Paprika

Beef Goulash with Paprika Recipe from Croatia

Region / culture: Croatia | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 6

Introduction

Beef Goulash with Paprika is a hearty and flavorful dish that has its roots in Eastern European cuisine. This recipe combines tender beef and pork with the tangy taste of sauerkraut and the warm, earthy flavor of paprika, finished with a dollop of sour cream for a creamy texture. It's a comforting meal perfect for cold days or any time you're in the mood for a rich and satisfying dish.

History

The origins of Beef Goulash can be traced back to medieval Hungary, where it started as a simple stew eaten by shepherds. Over the centuries, it evolved into a national dish beloved across Eastern Europe, with each region adding its own twist. The addition of paprika, a spice introduced to Europe from the Americas in the 16th century, became a defining characteristic of the Hungarian version of goulash.

Ingredients

3 lb (1.36 kg) beef, chuck or round bone
1 lb (454 g) pork, shoulder or tenderloin
4 large onions, sliced
3 qt (2.84 liters) sauerkraut
3 tbsp paprika
0.5 pt (237 ml) sour cream

How to prepare

Cut the meat into cubes.
Sauté the onions in a small amount of oil.
Remove from the flame and add paprika.
Stir briskly to prevent burning.
Add the meat and braise slowly, covered, for about 1.5 hours.
Add sauerkraut and cook for an additional 0.5 hour.
Stir in the sour cream.

Variations

For a lighter version, substitute the sour cream with Greek yogurt. You can also add vegetables like carrots and bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor.

Notes

Boiled potatoes, polenta, or dumplings are good companions to serve with this.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best flavor, use high-quality, sweet Hungarian paprika. Browning the meat in batches ensures it gets a good sear, which adds depth to the dish. Adding the paprika off the heat prevents it from burning and turning bitter. Slow cooking is key to tenderizing the meat and melding the flavors together.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this goulash hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. It pairs well with a side of boiled potatoes, egg noodles, or a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Cooking Techniques

Braising the meat slowly and gently is key to achieving tender, flavorful results. Sautéing the onions until they're golden brown before adding the meat and spices enhances the dish's overall taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you can't find sauerkraut, you can use shredded cabbage with a splash of vinegar for a similar tangy flavor. Greek yogurt can replace sour cream for a lighter finish.

Make Ahead Tips

This goulash tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld. Prepare it a day in advance and reheat gently before serving for an even more delicious meal.

Presentation Ideas

Serve in a deep dish or bowl to highlight the rich color and texture of the goulash. A garnish of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.

Pairing Recommendations

A robust red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Zinfandel, pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the goulash. For beer lovers, a dark lager complements the dish well.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water or broth if necessary to keep it moist.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Beef Goulash with Paprika contains approximately 400-500 calories, making it a substantial main course.

Carbohydrates

This Beef Goulash with Paprika is relatively low in carbohydrates, with the main sources being onions and sauerkraut. A serving contains approximately 10-15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

The fats in this dish come primarily from the beef, pork, and sour cream. Depending on the cuts of meat used and the fat content of the sour cream, a serving can contain between 20-30 grams of fat.

Proteins

Beef and pork are excellent sources of high-quality protein. A serving of this goulash can provide about 35-45 grams of protein, making it a hearty and filling option.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a good source of several vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin B12, zinc, iron, and selenium from the meat, and Vitamin C and K from the sauerkraut. Paprika also adds a dose of Vitamin A.

Alergens

The primary allergen in this recipe is dairy, from the sour cream. Those with lactose intolerance or a dairy allergy should be cautious.

Summary

Overall, Beef Goulash with Paprika is a protein-rich, moderately high-fat dish with a low carbohydrate content. It provides a good mix of vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious option for a hearty meal.

Summary

Beef Goulash with Paprika is a classic dish with deep historical roots and a rich blend of flavors. It's a nutritious, satisfying meal that's perfect for sharing with family and friends. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or add your own twist, it's sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Beef Goulash with Paprika. It was tucked away in an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own dear grandmother. As I carefully flipped through the stained and tattered pages, my eyes landed on the intriguing title of this dish. I had heard of goulash before, but I had never tried making it myself. The thought of tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich, paprika-infused sauce sounded absolutely delicious.

I decided to give the recipe a try, and I set out to gather all the ingredients I would need. The list was long, but I was determined to make this dish just as my grandmother had done so many years ago. I made my way to the local market, carefully selecting the freshest cuts of beef, the ripest tomatoes, and the most fragrant paprika I could find. As I gathered everything I needed, I couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement building within me.

Back in my kitchen, I set to work preparing the ingredients. I diced onions and garlic, chopped bell peppers, and measured out the perfect amount of paprika. The aroma of the spices filled the air, reminding me of happy times spent in the kitchen with my grandmother. I could almost hear her voice guiding me through each step, just as she had done when I was a young girl.

As the goulash simmered on the stove, I couldn't resist sneaking a taste. The flavors were rich and comforting, the beef tender and melt-in-your-mouth. I knew that I had stumbled upon something truly special. This recipe was more than just a dish to me - it was a connection to my past, a way to honor the memories of those who had come before me.

I sat down to enjoy a bowl of the goulash, savoring each bite and letting the flavors dance on my tongue. As I ate, I couldn't help but think back to the first time I had tasted this dish. It was at my grandmother's kitchen table, surrounded by family and laughter. The goulash had been the centerpiece of that meal, bringing us all together in a moment of pure joy and contentment.

From that day on, Beef Goulash with Paprika became a staple in my own kitchen. I made it for special occasions and weeknight dinners alike, always taking care to follow the recipe just as my grandmother had taught me. Each time I made it, I felt her presence with me, guiding my hands and filling my heart with love.

Over the years, I have shared this recipe with friends and loved ones, passing on the tradition that had been handed down to me. I have made it for new acquaintances and old friends, always receiving compliments and requests for the recipe. It brings me great joy to see others enjoying this dish as much as I do, knowing that it carries a piece of my family's history with it.

As I sit here now, reflecting on the journey that led me to this recipe, I am filled with gratitude for the culinary treasures that have been passed down through the generations. I am grateful for the memories of my grandmother and the legacy she left behind in her beloved cookbook. And I am grateful for the simple pleasure of a bowl of Beef Goulash with Paprika, a dish that will forever hold a special place in my heart.