
Here’s a detailed and unique article about Old Fashioned Goulash with a step-by-step method:
Old Fashioned Goulash: A Hearty Comfort Dish
Goulash is a timeless dish with roots in Hungarian cuisine, but over the years, it has traveled across borders and kitchens, becoming a comfort food classic in many homes. Unlike modern interpretations with quick-cooking shortcuts, old-fashioned goulash relies on slow-cooked, rich flavors and tender ingredients. This dish is the perfect embodiment of cozy, homemade cooking, ideal for chilly evenings or family gatherings.
Ingredients
To make a traditional old-fashioned goulash, you will need the following ingredients:
For the stew:
- 1.5 pounds (700g) beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or lard
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons sweet paprika (Hungarian preferred)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for depth)
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional, traditional touch)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for mild heat)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes or 2 fresh tomatoes, chopped
- 4 cups beef broth or water
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Method
1. Brown the Meat
Begin by heating the vegetable oil or lard in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the beef cubes in batches to avoid overcrowding. Sear the meat on all sides until nicely browned. Remove the beef and set it aside—browning is key for developing deep flavors.