Goulash Stew

Goulash Stew Recipe from Hungary - Essential Ingredients for a Hearty Meal

Region / culture: Hungary | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours and 30 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Goulash stew is a traditional Hungarian dish that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a comforting meal. This stew is made with tender beef, onions, paprika, garlic, and tomatoes, all simmered together to create a rich and delicious dish.

History

Goulash stew has its origins in Hungary, where it has been a popular dish for centuries. Originally a simple peasant dish made with whatever ingredients were on hand, goulash stew has evolved over time to become a beloved comfort food enjoyed by people all over the world.

Ingredients

3 tbsp of butter
2 large onions, sliced thin
2 tbsp of paprika
0.5 tsp of salt
1 clove of garlic, minced
2 lb (907 g) of beef round
2 cups of drained canned tomatoes
0.5 cups of sour cream, at room temperature

How to prepare

Melt the butter in a casserole dish with a cover. Add the sliced onions and cook gently for 10 minutes.
Stir in the paprika, salt, and garlic, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Remove the onions from the dish using a slotted spoon and set them aside.
Increase the heat and brown the beef, a few pieces at a time, in the oils in the dish.
Return the onions to the dish along with all the meat and the tomatoes. Cover and simmer for 2.5 hours.
Once done, remove the dish from the heat and briskly stir in the sour cream.

Serves 4

Cookbook: The Fannie Farmer Cookbook.
Author: Marion Cunningham.
Typed By: Susan Godfrey.
Email: alexanderjamesmom@gmail.com

Variations

Add diced bell peppers or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition.
Use smoked paprika for a different twist on the traditional recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to brown the beef in batches to ensure that it cooks evenly and develops a nice crust.

- Simmer the stew gently over low heat to allow the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender.

- Stir in the sour cream at the end of cooking to add a creamy richness to the stew.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the goulash stew over cooked noodles or with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Browning the beef before simmering helps to develop a rich flavor in the stew.

- Simmering the stew slowly over low heat allows the flavors to meld together and the meat to become tender.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use chicken or pork in place of beef for a different variation of the stew.

- Greek yogurt can be used in place of sour cream for a lighter option.

Make Ahead Tips

This stew can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving for an easy weeknight meal.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the stew with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve the goulash stew with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

350 per serving

Carbohydrates

12g per serving

Fats

18g per serving

Proteins

32g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

This stew is a good source of vitamin C, iron, and potassium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (sour cream).

Summary

This goulash stew is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Goulash stew is a classic dish that is perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal. With tender beef, onions, paprika, and tomatoes, this stew is full of flavor and sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy this hearty dish with your family and friends for a delicious and memorable meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always stay with me. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves were turning vibrant shades of red and orange, and there was a chill in the air that hinted at the coming winter. I was rummaging through some old cookbooks that had been passed down to me from my mother when I stumbled upon a faded, handwritten recipe for Goulash Stew.

As I carefully read through the ingredients and instructions, memories flooded back to me of my time spent in Hungary many years ago. I remembered the warm, savory aroma of Goulash stew wafting through the streets of Budapest, and the hearty meals shared with friends and family around the table. I knew that I had to try my hand at making this beloved dish once again.

I called up an old friend who had grown up in Hungary and asked her to share her family's recipe with me. She was happy to oblige, and over the phone, she guided me through the process of making Goulash Stew. I gathered all the necessary ingredients – beef, onions, garlic, paprika, tomatoes, and potatoes – and set to work in my cozy kitchen.

I started by browning the beef in a large pot, letting it sizzle and release its rich, meaty aroma. Next, I added in the onions and garlic, letting them soften and caramelize before sprinkling in the smoky paprika that would give the stew its signature flavor. As the spices melded together, I added in the tomatoes and let the mixture simmer and thicken, filling the kitchen with a mouthwatering scent.

Finally, I added in the potatoes, letting them soak up all the flavors and tenderize as the stew cooked low and slow on the stovetop. I stirred the pot occasionally, tasting and adjusting the seasonings until the flavors were just right. And when the stew was finally done, I ladled it into bowls and garnished it with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

As I took my first bite of the Goulash Stew, I was transported back to Hungary once again. The rich, hearty flavors enveloped my taste buds, warming me from the inside out. Each spoonful was a delight, a symphony of savory tastes and tender textures that reminded me of the joys of good food and good company.

Since that day, Goulash Stew has become a staple in my kitchen. I make it often, both for myself and for my loved ones, sharing the recipe and the memories that come with it. It's a dish that never fails to bring a smile to my face and a warmth to my heart, a reminder of the power of food to nourish not just the body, but the soul.

And so, as I sit here now, penning this story and sharing it with you, I hope that you too will be inspired to try your hand at making Goulash Stew. Let it be a reminder of the joys of cooking and the connections that food can create, a taste of Hungary that will linger in your memories long after the last bite is gone. Bon appétit!