Welcome to a journey through the comforting warmth of an old fashioned goulash recipe, where tradition meets taste in every spoonful. Originating from Eastern Europe, this delightful blend of beef, tomatoes, and spices is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Embark on this flavorful adventure and uncover the magic behind this classic dish.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs of ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 cups of beef broth
- 2 cups of elbow macaroni
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cups of tomato sauce
- 1 can of diced tomatoes
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp oregano
Equipments
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
How to Make Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe – Step By Step
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by organizing your workspace. Gather all the ingredients and equipment you’ll need. This includes chopping the onion and garlic, measuring out your spices, and having the beef broth ready. Creating a clean and efficient prep space will streamline the cooking process and make it much more enjoyable.
Step 2: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon while it cooks. Continue until the beef is browned on all sides.
Step 3: Combine the Ingredients
Once the beef is browned, it’s time to build the flavor. Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir everything together until well combined. Allow this mixture to simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes, which allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Cook the Macaroni
While the sauce simmers, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the elbow macaroni and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. This should take about 7-8 minutes. Drain the macaroni and add it directly to the goulash pot. Stir everything together so that the pasta is well coated with the sauce.
Step 5: Simmer and Serve
Continue to simmer the goulash for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to fully combine and soak into the pasta. Once done, remove from heat and let it cool slightly. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
How to Serve Old Fashioned Goulash
This goulash is perfect when served piping hot in a deep bowl, allowing the comforting aroma to envelop you as you eat. Pair it with a slice of crusty bread and a refreshing side salad for a complete meal. It’s also marvelous when topped with a generous sprinkle of cheese for an extra layer of indulgence!
Recipe Success Tips & Suggestions
To elevate your goulash dish, consider adding in a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick. Additionally, swap the elbow macaroni with whole wheat pasta or gluten-free pasta for dietary preferences. Adding in vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms can also enhance nutritional value and texture.
Pumped Up Protein: Boosting the Old Fashioned Goulash
If you’re aiming to up your protein intake, adding lean ground turkey or extra firm tofu can be a delightful twist that doesn’t stray far from the classic. By retaining all the essential herbs and spices, you can ensure the dish maintains its robust flavor.
Carb-Conscious Delight: Low-Carb Goulash
For a low-carb version of this recipe, substitute the elbow macaroni with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice. Both options are fantastic for those adhering to a low-carb or keto diet, keeping the traditional flavor while aligning with your dietary goals.
Storage Instructions
Old fashioned goulash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Alternatively, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Simply reheat in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to bring back its creamy consistency.
FAQs
- Can I make goulash in a slow cooker? Yes, you can slow cook on low for 4-6 hours for deep flavors.
- Can I freeze old fashioned goulash? Absolutely! Freeze for up to 3 months in airtight containers.
- What can I use instead of beef? Turkey, chicken, or plant-based proteins like tofu work well.
- How can I add a smoky taste? Consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke to enhance the flavor.
- Is there a vegetarian version? Simply skip the beef or replace it with lentils or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian meal.
FAQs JSON Format:
“faqOfArticlePost”: [
{
“question”: “Can I make goulash in a slow cooker?”,
“answer”: “Yes, you can slow cook on low for 4-6 hours for deep flavors.”
},
{
“question”: “Can I freeze old fashioned goulash?”,
“answer”: “Absolutely! Freeze for up to 3 months in airtight containers.”
},
{
“question”: “What can I use instead of beef?”,
“answer”: “Turkey, chicken, or plant-based proteins like tofu work well.”
},
{
“question”: “How can I add a smoky taste?”,
“answer”: “Consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke to enhance the flavor.”
},
{
“question”: “Is there a vegetarian version?”,
“answer”: “Simply skip the beef or replace it with lentils or chickpeas for a hearty vegetarian meal.”
}
],
Embrace the Nostalgia: Final Thoughts on This Goulash Recipe
In conclusion, the old fashioned goulash recipe is a testament to the timeless appeal of hearty, home-cooked meals that everyone will cherish. It bridges generations with its comforting flavors and nostalgic aroma. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family, and leave us a comment with your experience. Happy cooking!
Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- ground beef
- large onion
- garlic
- beef broth
- elbow macaroni
- olive oil
- tomato sauce
- diced tomatoes
- salt
- black pepper
- paprika
- oregano
Instructions
Steps
- Gather all the ingredients and organize your workspace for efficient cooking.
- Heat olive oil in a pot, add onions and garlic, then the ground beef until browned.
- Mix in tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, broth, and spices, letting it simmer.
- Cook macaroni separately, then mix into the goulash. Stir to combine.
- Allow to simmer, then serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs as desired.