Old Fashioned Goulash

Discover the rich flavors and timeless comfort of Old Fashioned Goulash, a classic recipe loved across generations. This hearty dish combines tender beef, savory onions, and paprika-spiced sauce to create a warm, satisfying meal that feels like a cozy hug on a plate. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or shared with family and friends, Old Fashioned Goulash continues to hold a special place in kitchens because of its simplicity, bold flavors, and soul-soothing qualities.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich, Comforting Flavor: The combination of beef and paprika creates a deeply satisfying taste that warms you from the inside out.
• Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples that make it easy to prepare anytime without a long list of fancy items.
• Generational Favorite: This recipe has been passed down and cherished through many families, which speaks to its timeless appeal.
• Versatile Meal: Whether served over noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes, it adapts to your preferences easily.
• One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with most of the cooking done in a single pan, saving you time and effort.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for Old Fashioned Goulash are straightforward but crucial to capturing the full, authentic flavor and hearty texture. Each element plays an essential role, from the tender meat to the warming spices and peppers that create the perfect balance.

• Beef chuck or stew meat: For tender and flavorful chunks that hold up well during slow cooking.
• Onions: Provide natural sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• Garlic: Adds aromatic complexity and enhances the savory profile.
• Sweet paprika: The star spice that gives goulash its signature smoky, slightly sweet flavor and rich color.
• Tomato paste: Intensifies the sauce’s richness and adds a subtle tanginess.
• Beef broth: Keeps the goulash moist and enriches the sauce with meaty goodness.
• Bell peppers: Bring freshness, sweetness, and texture variation.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that balance all the flavors together.
• Flour: Helps to thicken the sauce to a luscious consistency.
• Cooking oil or lard: For browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables.

Variations for Old Fashioned Goulash

Feel free to put your personal spin on Old Fashioned Goulash. It’s incredibly adaptable and perfect for tailoring to dietary needs or simply switching things up based on what’s in your kitchen.

• Vegetarian version: Substitute beef with mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based proteins for a meatless yet hearty alternative.
• Spicy kick: Add some crushed red pepper flakes or hot paprika for a more robust, fiery flavor.
• Slow cooker style: Let the ingredients simmer slowly all day for melt-in-your-mouth tenderness and intensified flavors.
• With noodles or potatoes: Serve over classic egg noodles or creamy mashed potatoes to suit your texture preference.
• Incorporate herbs: Fresh thyme or marjoram can add an earthy layer of flavor that complements the paprika beautifully.

How to Make Old Fashioned Goulash

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Start by heating oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks and brown them on all sides until they develop a rich, caramelized color. This step locks in the flavor and lays the groundwork for the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

Remove the beef and set it aside. In the same pot, add the onions and cook until soft and translucent. Toss in the garlic and cook for another minute to release its aroma without burning.

Step 3: Add Paprika and Tomato Paste

Sprinkle the sweet paprika over the onions and stir vigorously to ensure it doesn’t burn but releases its color and smoky fragrance. Then stir in the tomato paste, cooking it briefly to deepen its flavor.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients and Add Broth

Return the browned beef to the pot and toss in the chopped bell peppers. Pour in the beef broth until the ingredients are just covered. Give everything a good stir to combine and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Lower the heat and let your goulash gently bubble for at least 1 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The slow cooking tenderizes the beef and melds all the rich flavors together into a comforting stew.

Step 6: Thicken the Sauce

Mix a small amount of flour with cold water to form a slurry, then stir it into the simmering goulash. Cook for a few more minutes to thicken the sauce to your desired consistency.

Pro Tips for Making Old Fashioned Goulash

• Use quality beef: Choosing well-marbled meat makes a big difference in tenderness and flavor.
• Don’t rush browning: Take your time to get a good sear on the meat for deeper taste.
• Fresh paprika matters: Use fresh, high-quality sweet paprika to avoid bitter flavors.
• Simmer low and slow: Low heat over a longer time ensures the beef softens perfectly.
• Adjust thickness carefully: Add flour slurry gradually to avoid an overly thick or gluey sauce.

How to Serve Old Fashioned Goulash

Garnishes

A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds brightness and balances the deep flavors, making the dish visually appealing and extra tasty.

Side Dishes

Classic pairings like buttered egg noodles, fluffy mashed potatoes, or even crusty bread soak up the rich sauce beautifully and round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a modern twist, serve Old Fashioned Goulash in hollowed-out bread bowls or atop roasted root vegetables to impress friends and family with both flavor and presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let the goulash cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 3 days, allowing the flavors to deepen even more overnight.

Freezing

This dish freezes wonderfully—portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags, and it will keep for 2 to 3 months while maintaining its taste and texture.

Reheating

Slowly reheat goulash on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently. Adding a splash of broth or water keeps the sauce luscious and prevents drying out.

FAQs

What cut of beef is best for Old Fashioned Goulash?

Beef chuck or stew meat is ideal because it becomes tender during slow cooking and absorbs the flavors beautifully.

Can I make Old Fashioned Goulash in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours.

Is Old Fashioned Goulash gluten-free?

The traditional recipe uses flour to thicken the sauce, but you can substitute with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour to make it gluten-free.

How spicy is Old Fashioned Goulash?

Typically, Old Fashioned Goulash is mild and focuses on sweet paprika’s smoky flavor, but you can easily add heat with cayenne or hot paprika if desired.

Can I prepare Old Fashioned Goulash ahead of time?

Yes, many find the flavors improve after resting overnight, making it a perfect dish to make a day ahead.

Final Thoughts

Old Fashioned Goulash is more than just a stew; it’s a warm, inviting tradition that brings people together with every flavorful spoonful. Whether you’re revisiting a family favorite or discovering it for the first time, this classic recipe promises comfort, simplicity, and a delicious meal that never goes out of style. Give it a try—you’ll soon understand why Old Fashioned Goulash remains a beloved dish across generations.

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