Slow-cooking Goulash

Authentic Hungarian Slow-Cooking Goulash Recipe with Beef Chuck and Paprika

Region / culture: Hungary | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 6-10 hours | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Goulash is a traditional Hungarian dish that has become popular all over the world for its rich and hearty flavors. This slow-cooking goulash recipe is a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for a cozy night in.

History

Goulash has its origins in Hungary, where it was originally a simple stew made with meat, vegetables, and paprika. Over time, the recipe has evolved to include a variety of ingredients such as tomatoes, onions, and mushrooms. Today, goulash is enjoyed in many different countries and is a beloved comfort food for many.

Ingredients

2 lb (907 g) boneless beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tbsp flour
1 small onion, diced
0.5 tsp garlic powder (optional)
1 tsp salt
1 tsp paprika
0.13 tsp pepper
1 can (15 oz (425 g)) tomato sauce
1 cup fresh or canned sliced mushrooms
0.5 cup sour cream

How to prepare

Place the meat in a slow cooker and coat it with flour by tossing it.
Add onion, optional garlic powder, salt, paprika, pepper, and tomato sauce.
Cook on low heat for six to ten hours or until the meat becomes tender.
Alternatively, you can cook the beef in a covered three-quart casserole dish in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for three hours.
Add mushrooms and sour cream twenty minutes before serving.
Serve the dish over rice or in avocado halves.
Note: You can substitute beef with venison.
You can prepare this dish ahead of time and freeze it.

Variations

Use lamb or pork instead of beef for a different flavor.
Add diced bell peppers or carrots for extra vegetables.
Experiment with different herbs and spices such as thyme, oregano, or bay leaves.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For a richer flavor, brown the meat before adding it to the slow cooker.

- Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences.

- Add a splash of red wine for an extra depth of flavor.

- Stir in a tablespoon of tomato paste for a thicker sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the goulash over rice, noodles, or mashed potatoes.

- Garnish with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream.

- Pair with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Slow cooking allows the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender.

- Browning the meat before cooking adds depth of flavor.

- Adding sour cream at the end of cooking creates a creamy and rich sauce.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use Greek yogurt or coconut cream as a dairy-free alternative to sour cream.

- Substitute beef with chicken or tofu for a vegetarian option.

- Use canned diced tomatoes instead of tomato sauce.

Make Ahead Tips

This goulash can be prepared ahead of time and frozen for later use.

- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the goulash in a bread bowl for a fun and creative presentation. - Top with a sprinkle of smoked paprika or chopped fresh herbs for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this goulash with a glass of red wine such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon.

- Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

350 per serving

Carbohydrates

15g per serving

Fats

12g per serving

Proteins

30g per serving

Vitamins and minerals

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

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (sour cream).

Summary

This slow-cooking goulash is a balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious choice for a hearty dinner.

Summary

This slow-cooking goulash recipe is a delicious and comforting meal that is perfect for a cozy night in. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy this traditional dish with a modern twist!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Slow-cooking Goulash. It was a crisp autumn day, and I had decided to take a leisurely stroll through the local farmer's market. As I perused the various stands filled with fresh produce and homemade goods, a kind elderly woman caught my eye.

She was standing behind a table covered with jars of homemade jams and jellies, her weathered hands expertly tying ribbons around the lids. I struck up a conversation with her, and she mentioned that she had a recipe for Slow-cooking Goulash that had been passed down through her family for generations.

Intrigued, I asked her if she would be willing to share the recipe with me. With a twinkle in her eye, she handed me a worn piece of paper covered in faded handwriting. She explained that the key to a delicious Slow-cooking Goulash was to be patient and let the flavors develop over time.

Excited to try out this new recipe, I rushed home and gathered all the necessary ingredients. As I chopped onions, bell peppers, and garlic, the savory aroma filled my kitchen. I browned the beef in a hot skillet, watching as it sizzled and caramelized, before transferring it to the slow cooker.

I added the vegetables, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and a blend of spices to the slow cooker, stirring everything together until it was well combined. The scent of paprika, cumin, and bay leaves wafted through the air, promising a rich and hearty meal.

I set the slow cooker to low and let it simmer for hours, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a mouthwatering dish. The anticipation was almost unbearable as I waited for the Goulash to finish cooking.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, the timer dinged, signaling that it was time to serve. I carefully ladled the Goulash into bowls, garnishing each one with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

As I took my first bite, I was transported back in time to the countryside of Hungary, where this dish originated. The tender chunks of beef melted in my mouth, while the vegetables added a burst of freshness to each bite. The spices danced on my tongue, warming me from the inside out.

I couldn't believe how delicious this Slow-cooking Goulash was. It was a comforting and hearty meal that reminded me of the importance of taking things slow and savoring the moment.

From that day on, Slow-cooking Goulash became a staple in my recipe collection. I shared it with friends and family, who all raved about its incredible flavor and comforting aroma.

I often think back to that chance encounter at the farmer's market and the kind woman who shared her family recipe with me. It's amazing how a simple recipe can bring people together and create lasting memories.

So, if you ever find yourself in need of a warm and comforting meal, look no further than Slow-cooking Goulash. It's a recipe that has stood the test of time and will continue to delight for generations to come.