Grandmas Hungarian Goulash
Hankering for a heartwarming old fashioned goulash recipe This is Grandmas secret Tender beef sweet paprika and slowcooked flavour The ultimate comfort food Get the recipe now ... Quick & Easy
Recipe Introduction
Fancy Some Proper Comfort Food?
Have you ever craved a dish that hugs you from the inside? Well, let me tell you about my old fashioned goulash recipe .
It's proper lush. Trust me, it's a hearty and comforting stew, loaded with flavour from sweet paprika. This isn't just food, it's like a warm hug on a cold day.
A Taste of Hungary, Right in Your Kitchen
This authentic Hungarian goulash recipe comes from humble beginnings. It's traditionally a peasant dish, designed to feed a family using simple ingredients.
My version is pretty easy to make, although it does need some time to simmer, about 3 to 3. 5 hours from start to finish.
It yields around 6 to 8 servings, perfect for a family dinner or batch cooking!
More Than Just a Meal: Benefits Galore
Honestly, apart from being soul-satisfying, this goulash is packed with protein and nutrients from the beef and vegetables. It's perfect for a cozy Sunday dinner, or any time you need a bit of cheering up.
What makes this recipe for goulash special is the depth of flavor you get from slow cooking and the combination of sweet and smoked paprika.
Let's Talk Ingredients
Okay, let's get into the nitty-gritty and talk ingredients. Get your shopping list ready! To make this best goulash recipes , you'll need a couple of pounds of beef chuck.
You know, go for the well-marbled stuff, it makes all the difference. And don't forget the onions, paprika (both sweet and smoked – crucial!), caraway seeds, and a few other bits and bobs.
Equipment You'll Need
Right, before we get started, make sure you have a big ol' Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed pot. You will also need a cutting board and a decent knife.
A mortar and pestle is handy for crushing the caraway seeds, but if you don't have one, no worries, just give them a bash with the side of your knife.
It's really easy goulash recipes , don't panic!.
A Note Before You Start
Before you start, I want to share something. I once tried to rush this recipe. Big mistake. The beef was tough, the flavors hadn't melded and frankly, it was a bit rubbish.
So, learn from my mistakes – low and slow is the way to go for a truly classic goulash . Ready to make some magic? Let's get cooking!
Alright, let’s talk ingredients and kit for the old fashioned goulash recipe . Honestly, it's all pretty straightforward stuff. You don't need to be Nigella Lawson to nail this! Think about this as Grandma's cooking.
.. real food.
Grandmas Hungarian Goulash Recipe Card
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Main Ingredients: The Heart of the Matter
Okay, here's what you'll need for this best goulash recipe . No cutting corners now!
- Beef Chuck: 2 lbs (900g) , cubed. Get the good stuff, with a bit of fat. It melts down and makes it amazing.
- Olive Oil: 2 tbsp (30ml) . Just for searing that lovely beef!
- Onions: 2 large , chopped. Don't be shy with them.
- Sweet Paprika: 2 tbsp (30g) . This IS Hungarian Goulash.
- Smoked Paprika: 1 tbsp (15g) . Adds a lovely depth!
- Caraway Seeds: 2 tsp (10g) , crushed.
- Marjoram: 1 tsp (5g) , dried.
- Salt & Pepper: 1 tsp (5g) salt , ½ tsp (2.5g) black pepper . Adjust to taste later.
- Garlic: 4 cloves , minced. Essential, obvs.
- Beef Broth: 6 cups (1.4L) . Low sodium is always good.
- Diced Tomatoes: 1 (14.5 oz) can (400g) , undrained.
- Potatoes: 2 medium , cubed.
- Carrot: 1 large , sliced.
- Green Bell Pepper: 1 , chopped.
That's it. Easy peasy. Right? If you want to make authentic Hungarian goulash recipe then using good quality paprika is really important.
The flavour should be rich and vibrant, so hunt out the best stuff you can find for your recipe for goulash .
Seasoning: Getting That Flavour Just Right!
Paprika is King. Sweet paprika gives that classic taste, but smoked paprika adds a bit of a twist. Trust me.
Caraway seeds and marjoram? They're like the supporting actors, essential for that proper traditional goulash stew flavour.
A dash of Worcestershire sauce? Don't tell anyone I told you that . If you are looking for Easy Goulash Recipes consider using pre-mixed spices.
Equipment: Keep It Simple, Stupid!
You really don't need fancy gadgets for this Dutch Oven Goulash Recipe .
- Dutch Oven (or heavy pot). This is key!
- Chopping board & knife. Obvs.
- Mortar & Pestle (optional). Crushing caraway seeds makes a difference, but you can skip it.
That's all you need! No need for the silver service tonight. Let's get cooking this Beef Goulash with Paprika ! Remember the goal: Grandma's Old Fashioned Goulash .
I know what you might be thinking. "All this for a stew?". But trust me on this, once you have your first mouthful of your very own Classic Goulash , you'll never look back.
It's pure comfort, pure joy and pretty easy to make. Let's get to it!
Let's Cook! Grandma's Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe
Honestly, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of classic goulash on a chilly evening. It brings back memories of Sunday dinners.
This recipe for goulash is my take on a traditional goulash stew . It’s a bit like Grandma's Old Fashioned Goulash , full of flavour and comfort.
Prep Like a Pro for Easy Goulash Recipes
First, the mise en place . Chop your 2 large yellow onions and mince 4 cloves of garlic . Cube 2 lbs of beef chuck into 1-inch pieces.
Prep 2 medium potatoes , 1 large carrot , and 1 green bell pepper , you know? It might seem boring but makes life easier.
For time-saving, I like to chop all my veggies while the beef is resting. A sharp knife is key, so be careful. Always curl your fingers under when chopping. Safety first, yeah?
Cooking the Best Goulash Recipes : Step-by-Step
- Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in your Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Season your beef with 1 tsp of salt and ½ tsp of black pepper . Sear the beef in batches until browned. Set aside. Don't overcrowd the pot, alright?
- Add the onions to the pot and cook until softened ( 5- 7 minutes ). Then, stir in the garlic, 2 tbsp of sweet paprika , 1 tbsp of smoked paprika , 2 tsp of crushed caraway seeds , and 1 tsp of dried marjoram . Cook for another minute – smells amazing, doesn't it?
- Return the beef. Pour in 6 cups of beef broth and 1 (14.5 oz) can of diced tomatoes .
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 2-2. 5 hours . The beef should be super tender.
- Add potatoes, carrot, and green bell pepper. Simmer another 30 minutes , until veggies are tender.
- Season to taste. Serve hot.
Pro Tips for your Authentic Hungarian Goulash Recipe
A secret? Don't skimp on the paprika! High-quality Hungarian paprika makes all the difference. Seriously.
Another tip. Resist the urge to rush the simmering. The longer it cooks, the more tender the beef will be. You can also try a Slow Cooker Goulash Recipe
One mistake I made when trying a Dutch Oven Goulash Recipe ? Forgetting to adjust the seasoning at the end. Taste and adjust, you'll be glad you did!
Recipe Notes: Your Goulash Guide
Right then, let's talk recipe notes for our old fashioned goulash recipe ! It's those little tips and tricks that really elevate a dish from "good" to "bloody brilliant," innit? My Grandma's Old Fashioned Goulash was always about the love and care in the details, so let's dive in!
Serving Suggestions: Goulash Glamour
How you plate it up matters! A simple bowl works, but consider a swirl of sour cream or crème fraîche on top.
Presentation is key, even for a humble stew. A sprig of parsley? Why not! To go with it, some nice crusty bread is essential for mopping up that delicious sauce.
Spätzle (German noodles) is a classic pairing. I often serve mine with a simple green salad to balance the richness.
Honestly, nothing beats it!
Storage Tips: Keepin' it Fresh
If you've got leftovers (unlikely, mind you!), fridge them quick. Pop them in an airtight container within two hours. It'll happily keep for 3-4 days no problem.
For longer storage, freezing is your friend. Portion it out, freeze for up to 3 months . Reheating? Just thaw it overnight, then gently heat on the stove, adding a splash of broth if it's thickened up too much.
Variations: Mix It Up!
Fancy a bit of a twist? For a bit of heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper can transform your Beef Goulash with Paprika .
Going veggie? Swap the beef for portobello mushrooms and use vegetable broth to create a hearty vegetarian option. For our gluten-free pals, check your broth and spices are safe.
It's an Easy Goulash Recipe to adapt!
Nutrition Basics: Fuel for the Soul
Let's be real, traditional goulash stew isn't exactly a health food, but it's packed with protein and veggies! Each serving clocks in around 420 calories , with 35g protein , 20g fat , and 25g carbs .
You also get fibre and vitamins from the veggies. The key? Enjoy it in moderation!
So there you have it! All my little secrets for making the best goulash recipes . Don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own.
Get in the kitchen! It's easier than you think, and the results are totally worth it. You've got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between this old fashioned goulash recipe and the American version with macaroni?
That's a great question! This recipe is for authentic Hungarian Goulash, which is a rich, slow-cooked stew made with beef, paprika, and vegetables. Unlike the American version that often includes elbow macaroni, this goulash is all about deep flavor and tender meat – a real taste of Central Europe, not something you'd find at a school cafeteria!
Can I make this old fashioned goulash recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! For a slow cooker adaptation, sear the beef and sauté the onions and garlic as directed in the recipe. Then, transfer everything to your slow cooker, add the remaining ingredients, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. It's a "set it and forget it" way to enjoy a hearty, comforting meal – perfect for those busy weeknights when you just want something home-cooked waiting for you. It gives a whole new meaning to having a proper 'Sunday Roast' equivalent ready without all the work!
What's the best way to store leftover goulash? How long will it last?
Leftover goulash is even better the next day, like a good curry! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 2-3 months. Just make sure to cool it down completely before freezing and thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. A good rule of thumb is if you wouldn't leave leftovers on the counter for a few hours, don't leave the goulash out either!
Can I make this old fashioned goulash recipe spicier?
You bet! If you like a bit of a kick, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped chili pepper along with the paprika. You could also use hot paprika instead of sweet paprika for a more intense heat. Just remember to add a little at a time and taste as you go – you can always add more, but you can't take it away! It's like adding a splash of Tabasco to your Bloody Mary; start slow, then build to your desired level.
Is this old fashioned goulash recipe healthy? What are the nutritional considerations?
Grandma's goulash is pretty hearty! It provides a good source of protein, iron, and vitamins from the beef and vegetables. However, it can be high in sodium, especially if you use regular beef broth, so consider using low-sodium broth. To make it even healthier, you could trim excess fat from the beef and load up on the vegetables. Also, keep in mind portion sizes - enjoy a reasonable serving with a side salad for a well-balanced meal. As they say "Everything in moderation, including moderation!"
