Goulash is a hearty and comforting dish that has been a staple in many households for generations. Originating from Hungary, this traditional stew is known for its rich flavors and tender meat. One of the most popular variations of goulash is made with ground beef, which adds a unique texture and depth of flavor. This version of Goulash With Ground Beef is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.
Ingredients for Goulash With Ground Beef
To make a delicious Goulash With Ground Beef, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz/411g) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups (480ml) beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon paprika (preferably Hungarian paprika)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1⁄2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1⁄2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1⁄2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Optional: sour cream for serving
Instructions for Goulash With Ground Beef
Follow these steps to create a flavorful Goulash With Ground Beef:
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once the beef is browned, drain off any excess fat.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the diced carrots, potatoes, and green bell pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Add Spices and Tomato Paste
Sprinkle the paprika, salt, black pepper, thyme, and oregano over the vegetables. Stir well to combine. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Step 4: Simmer the Goulash
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice) and beef broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Add the bay leaf and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
Step 5: Thicken the Goulash
In a small bowl, mix the flour with a little bit of water to create a slurry. Slowly pour the slurry into the pot, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the goulash has thickened to your desired consistency.
Step 6: Serve
Remove the bay leaf and taste the goulash, adjusting the seasoning if necessary. Ladle the goulash into bowls and serve hot. For an extra touch of creaminess, you can top each serving with a dollop of sour cream.
🍲 Note: If you prefer a spicier goulash, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the pot while sautéing the vegetables.
🍲 Note: For a richer flavor, you can use beef stock instead of beef broth. Additionally, you can add a splash of red wine to the pot after sautéing the vegetables for an extra depth of flavor.
Variations of Goulash With Ground Beef
While the classic recipe for Goulash With Ground Beef is delicious on its own, there are several variations you can try to add a unique twist to the dish. Here are a few ideas:
Vegetable Variations
You can customize the vegetables in your goulash to suit your preferences or what you have on hand. Some popular vegetable additions include:
- Celery
- Mushrooms
- Zucchini
- Peas
- Spinach
Meat Variations
If you want to experiment with different types of meat, you can try substituting the ground beef with:
- Ground turkey
- Ground chicken
- Ground pork
- Ground lamb
Spice Variations
To change up the flavor profile, you can adjust the spices in your goulash. Some spice variations to consider include:
- Smoked paprika for a smoky flavor
- Cumin for an earthy taste
- Coriander for a citrusy note
- Chili powder for added heat
Nutritional Information
Goulash is a nutritious and balanced meal, packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals. Here is a breakdown of the nutritional information for a serving of Goulash With Ground Beef:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Protein | 25g |
| Total Fat | 18g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Cholesterol | 70mg |
| Sodium | 800mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g |
| Sugars | 6g |
| Vitamin A | 100% |
| Vitamin C | 30% |
| Calcium | 4% |
| Iron | 20% |
Note that the nutritional information may vary based on the specific ingredients and brands used. This table provides an approximate breakdown of the nutrients in a typical serving of Goulash With Ground Beef.
Tips for Making the Best Goulash With Ground Beef
To ensure your Goulash With Ground Beef turns out perfectly every time, follow these tips:
Choose the Right Ground Beef
Opt for ground beef with a higher fat content (around 80⁄20) for a richer flavor and more tender texture. Lean ground beef can become dry and less flavorful when cooked.
Sauté the Vegetables Properly
Take your time sautéing the vegetables to bring out their natural sweetness and flavors. This step is crucial for building the foundation of your goulash.
Simmer Slowly
Allow the goulash to simmer slowly over low heat to develop the flavors and tenderize the meat and vegetables. Rushing this process can result in a less flavorful dish.
Adjust Seasoning
Taste the goulash as it cooks and adjust the seasoning as needed. Adding a pinch of salt or a dash of paprika can enhance the overall flavor.
Serve with Sides
Pair your Goulash With Ground Beef with complementary sides such as crusty bread, egg noodles, or a simple green salad to create a well-rounded meal.
🍲 Note: For a healthier option, you can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef. Additionally, you can reduce the amount of oil used for cooking to lower the fat content.
🍲 Note: If you prefer a thicker goulash, you can add more flour to the slurry or let it simmer uncovered for a longer period to reduce the liquid.
🍲 Note: To make the goulash ahead of time, prepare it as instructed and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little water if needed to adjust the consistency.
Goulash is a versatile and comforting dish that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal on a cold winter day or a satisfying dinner on a busy weeknight, Goulash With Ground Beef is sure to please. The combination of tender ground beef, flavorful vegetables, and rich spices creates a dish that is both comforting and delicious. With its easy preparation and customizable ingredients, this goulash recipe is perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a bowl of warm, comforting Goulash With Ground Beef today.
Related Terms:
- american goulash recipe
- classic goulash
- old fashioned goulash
- grandma's american goulash
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