Czech Goulash (the Real Thing)

Czech Goulash (the Real Thing) Recipe - Beef and Pork in Rich Tomato and Spice Sauce

Region / culture: Czech Republic | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 6

Introduction

Czech Goulash is a traditional dish that has been enjoyed in Czech cuisine for generations. This hearty and flavorful stew is perfect for cold winter nights or any time you're craving a comforting meal. The combination of tender beef and pork, aromatic spices, and rich tomato-based sauce makes this dish a favorite among many.

History

Goulash has its origins in Hungary, but it has become a popular dish in many Central European countries, including the Czech Republic. The Czech version of goulash typically includes a combination of beef and pork, along with a variety of spices and seasonings. It is often served with bread or dumplings to soak up the delicious sauce.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) of cubed beef, approximately 0.5 inch
2 lb (907 g) of cubed pork, approximately 0.5 inch
2 tbsp of oil, for browning the meat
2 tsp of pickling spices
1 cup of chopped onions (preferably sweet)
2 (15 oz (425 g)) cans of diced stewed tomatoes
1 (14 oz (397 g)) bottle of catsup (preferably Heinz)
1 (10 oz (283 g)) can of tomato soup (preferably Campbell's)
1 tsp of ground cloves
1 tsp of ground allspice
1 tsp of ground nutmeg
1 tsp of ground turmeric
1 tsp of ground paprika
1 tsp of sugar
0.5 tsp of ground cinnamon
0.5 tsp of salt
0.5 tsp of black pepper
0.5 tsp of red pepper
1 tsp of white vinegar
1 tsp of good whiskey (I use Black Jack Daniels)

How to prepare

Heat oil in a large Dutch oven (a large stew pot) over high heat.
Combine beef and pork and begin to brown them in the oil on all sides.
Once the meat is browned on all sides, add the onion and enough water to cover the meat and onion mixture.
Tie the pickling spices in a cheesecloth or use a metal tea ball filled halfway.
The spices will expand while cooking.
Drop the cheesecloth or tea ball into the meat mixture.
Simmer the mixture for 45 minutes.
Add the ingredients from the cans, diced tomatoes, tomato soup, and ketchup. Stir the mixture well.
Finally, add all the measured spices, vinegar, and whiskey!
Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour with the lid on the pot.
Check and stir frequently to prevent the bottom from scorching or burning.
Remove the pickling spice container and discard it before serving.

Note

You can add 2 cups of egg noodles while simmering the soup until the noodles are tender. You may need to add a little more water for the noodles.

Variations

You can add different vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or potatoes to the goulash for added texture and flavor.
For a spicier version, you can increase the amount of red pepper or add a chopped chili pepper.
You can also use different cuts of meat, such as lamb or chicken, for a unique twist on the classic recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Browning the meat before adding the other ingredients helps to develop flavor.

- Simmering the goulash low and slow allows the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender.

- Stirring frequently while simmering helps to prevent the bottom from scorching.

- Adding a bit of whiskey at the end adds a unique depth of flavor to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Czech Goulash is traditionally served with bread or dumplings on the side. You can also serve it over rice or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking techniques for Czech Goulash include browning the meat, simmering the stew low and slow, and stirring frequently to prevent scorching.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have pickling spices, you can use a combination of whole cloves, allspice, and bay leaves. You can also substitute the whiskey with red wine or beef broth for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Czech Goulash can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Czech Goulash in a large bowl with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Czech Goulash pairs well with a light and refreshing salad, such as cucumber or tomato salad. It also goes well with a glass of Czech beer or red wine.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Czech Goulash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stovetop over low heat until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Czech Goulash contains approximately 350 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Czech Goulash contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Czech Goulash contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Czech Goulash contains approximately 30 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Czech Goulash is a good source of iron, vitamin C, and vitamin A.

Alergens

This recipe contains gluten from the noodles, and it may contain soy from the ketchup.

Summary

Czech Goulash is a hearty and flavorful dish that provides a good balance of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also a good source of iron and vitamins.

Summary

Czech Goulash is a classic dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. With its tender meat, rich tomato sauce, and aromatic spices, it is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful stew with your favorite side dish for a satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I knew it was something I had to try. The rich flavors, the tender meat, the hearty potatoes - it all spoke to my soul. I had always been a fan of Czech cuisine, with its bold spices and comforting dishes. And when I stumbled upon this recipe for Czech Goulash (the Real Thing), I knew I had found a gem.

I first learned about Czech Goulash from a dear friend of mine, Mrs. Novak. She was a Czech immigrant who had brought her family's traditional recipes with her when she moved to America. Mrs. Novak was a wonderful cook, and I had spent many hours in her kitchen, learning the secrets of Czech cuisine. When she shared her recipe for Czech Goulash with me, I was thrilled.

The ingredients were simple - beef, onions, garlic, tomatoes, potatoes, and a blend of spices that included paprika, caraway seeds, and marjoram. But it was the technique that truly set this goulash apart. Mrs. Novak taught me how to brown the meat just right, how to slowly simmer the stew for hours until the flavors melded together perfectly, and how to adjust the seasoning to taste.

I still remember the first time I made Czech Goulash on my own. I carefully followed Mrs. Novak's instructions, browning the beef in batches, sautéing the onions and garlic until they were fragrant, and adding the tomatoes and spices to create a rich, aromatic base for the stew. As the goulash simmered on the stove, filling my kitchen with its mouthwatering scent, I felt a sense of accomplishment and pride.

When I finally served the goulash to my family, they were blown away. The tender beef, the savory sauce, the perfectly cooked potatoes - it was a meal fit for a king. My husband declared it the best goulash he had ever tasted, and my children eagerly asked for seconds. From that moment on, Czech Goulash became a staple in our household.

Over the years, I have continued to perfect my recipe for Czech Goulash. I have added my own twists and tweaks, experimenting with different cuts of meat, adjusting the seasoning, and even incorporating some of my own family's favorite ingredients. But no matter how many times I make it, Czech Goulash always brings back memories of Mrs. Novak and our time spent in her kitchen.

I have since shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, passing on the tradition of Czech cuisine to a new generation. And every time I make Czech Goulash, I am reminded of the power of food to bring people together, to create memories, and to celebrate our shared heritage.

So if you ever find yourself craving a hearty, comforting meal that will warm your soul and satisfy your taste buds, look no further than Czech Goulash (the Real Thing). It may have been Mrs. Novak who first introduced me to this delicious dish, but it is now a part of my own culinary repertoire, a recipe that I will cherish and pass down for generations to come. Bon appétit!