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.