Easy And Delicious Ground Beef Goulash Recipe: How To Make It In Just 30 Minutes!
Goulash, a beloved dish with Hungarian roots, is a hearty and flavorful stew that has captured the hearts of food lovers worldwide. Its traditional ingredients include beef, onions, paprika, and a rich broth. This blog post will embark on a culinary journey, guiding you through the steps of how to make ground beef goulash, a delicious variation that offers a flavorful twist on the classic dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, brown the ground beef until no longer pink. Drain off any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Season the Beef: Sprinkle the paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper over the beef mixture. Stir to combine and cook for 1-2 minutes to enhance the flavors.
4. Add the Liquids: Pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for a richer flavor.
5. Optional: Add Sour Cream: If desired, stir in the sour cream for a creamy and tangy touch.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the ground beef goulash hot over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a vibrant touch.
Tips for Perfection:
- Use High-Quality Beef: Choose a lean ground beef with a fat content of 80/20 or less for a healthier and tastier goulash.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When browning the beef, avoid overcrowding the pan as this will prevent it from searing properly.
- Simmer for Flavor: Allow the goulash to simmer for as long as possible to develop a rich and complex flavor profile.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the goulash as it simmers and adjust the seasonings as needed to suit your preferences.
- Serve with Your Favorite Sides: Ground beef goulash pairs perfectly with various sides such as egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice.
Variations on the Classic:
- Spicy Goulash: Add a dash of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
- Vegetable Goulash: Incorporate chopped vegetables such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
- Slow Cooker Goulash: Prepare the goulash in a slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours for a tender and flavorful dish that requires minimal effort.
The Health Benefits of Goulash:
- Rich in Protein: Goulash provides a substantial amount of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.
- Contains Vitamins and Minerals: It is a good source of vitamins such as vitamin C and minerals such as iron and zinc.
- Supports Digestion: The fiber content in the vegetables and broth aids digestion and promotes gut health.
Summary: A Culinary Delight for Any Occasion
Ground beef goulash is a versatile and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed at any time. Its rich flavors, ease of preparation, and customizable nature make it a favorite among home cooks and food enthusiasts alike. Whether you follow the classic recipe or experiment with variations, this culinary adventure is sure to tantalize your taste buds and become a staple in your recipe repertoire.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use ground pork or turkey instead of beef?
A: Yes, you can substitute ground pork or turkey for a leaner version of the goulash.
Q: How can I thicken the goulash?
A: Add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a little water to the simmering goulash. Stir until desired consistency is achieved.
Q: Can I freeze the goulash?
A: Yes, the goulash can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing in airtight containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.