Instant Pot Goulash: Can You Whip Up This Hungarian Delight in Minutes?

Yes, you absolutely can make goulash in an Instant Pot! This versatile kitchen appliance makes it incredibly easy to prepare this hearty and flavorful dish. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, you’ll find that the Instant Pot simplifies the process while delivering delicious results.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make goulash in an Instant Pot, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons Hungarian paprika
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 cup egg noodles (optional)
• Sour cream and chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Beef: Turn on the Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Add the olive oil and heat it for 1 minute. Once the oil is hot, add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides for about 5 minutes.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Remove the beef from the Instant Pot and set it aside. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and sauté for 2 minutes, until softened.
3. Add the Spices: Sprinkle the paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper over the vegetables. Stir to combine and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Deglaze the Pot (Optional): If there are any browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot, deglaze it by adding a splash of beef broth and scraping the bottom with a wooden spoon.
5. Add the Liquids: Pour in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Stir to combine.
6. Return the Beef: Add the browned beef cubes back to the Instant Pot.
7. Cook on High Pressure: Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to “Pressure Cook” on high pressure for 20 minutes.
8. Quick Release: Once the cooking time is complete, quick release the pressure by turning the valve to “Venting.”
9. Add Noodles (Optional): If desired, add the egg noodles to the pot and stir. Close the lid and cook on high pressure for an additional 3 minutes.
10. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the goulash into bowls and garnish with sour cream and chopped parsley. Enjoy while hot!

Tips for the Perfect Goulash

• Use high-quality beef: The quality of the beef will significantly impact the flavor of the goulash. Choose a lean cut, such as stew meat or chuck roast, for best results.
• Don’t overcrowd the pot: It’s important to not overcrowd the Instant Pot when browning the beef. If necessary, brown the beef in batches.
• Adjust the seasonings to taste: Paprika is the primary spice in goulash, but you can adjust the amount to suit your taste. Feel free to add more cumin, oregano, or other spices as desired.
• Serve with your favorite sides: Goulash is a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides. Consider mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or crusty bread.

Variations on Goulash

• Vegetarian Goulash: Omit the beef and substitute with plant-based protein, such as tofu or lentils.
• Spicy Goulash: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or chili powder to give your goulash a kick.
• Creamy Goulash: Stir in a cup of heavy cream or sour cream after cooking for a richer, more indulgent flavor.

Storing and Reheating Goulash

• Storing: Leftover goulash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the goulash in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

The Verdict: Can You Make Goulash in an Instant Pot?

Absolutely! The Instant Pot makes it incredibly easy to prepare a delicious and hearty goulash. With its simple step-by-step instructions and customizable options, you can create a perfect goulash that will satisfy your taste buds. So, the next time you’re craving a comforting and flavorful meal, give Instant Pot goulash a try!

Popular Questions

Q: How long does it take to cook goulash in an Instant Pot?
A: The Instant Pot cooks goulash in just 20 minutes on high pressure.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to my goulash?
A: Yes, you can add other vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or green bell peppers, to your goulash for extra flavor and nutrition.

Q: Is it better to use pre-browned beef or raw beef for goulash?
A: It’s best to brown the beef yourself before adding it to the Instant Pot. This will develop more flavor and depth in your goulash.

Q: Can I make goulash ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make goulash ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, reheat the goulash over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Q: What are some good side dishes to serve with goulash?
A: Goulash pairs well with a variety of side dishes, such as mashed potatoes, egg noodles, crusty bread, or a side salad.