What To Know
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a fiery kick.
- Transfer all the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours for a tender and flavorful meal.
- Serve the goulash with a side of crusty bread or pasta for a satisfying meal.
Embark on a tantalizing culinary journey with this comprehensive guide on how to make ground beef goulash. This hearty and flavorful dish is a symphony of savory flavors, guaranteed to warm your soul and satisfy your cravings.
Ingredients: A Symphony of Flavors
To craft this culinary masterpiece, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 (15 ounce) can beef broth
- 1 (15 ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup chopped carrots
- 1/2 cup chopped celery
- 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 bay leaf
Step-by-Step Instructions: A Culinary Dance
1. Prepare the Ground Beef: In a large skillet, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
3. Enhance the Flavor: Stir in the paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
4. Add the Liquid Base: Pour in the tomato sauce, beef broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a simmer.
5. Incorporate the Vegetables: Add the carrots, celery, green bell pepper, and Worcestershire sauce. Stir to combine.
6. Simmer to Perfection: Reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the sauce has thickened.
7. Add the Bay Leaf: Throw in the bay leaf for an extra layer of aroma.
8. Serve and Savor: Ladle the hearty goulash into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings, such as sour cream, shredded cheese, or chopped parsley.
Variations: A Canvas for Creativity
This ground beef goulash recipe provides a solid foundation, but feel free to experiment with different variations to suit your taste:
- Spicy Goulash: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce for a fiery kick.
- Vegetarian Goulash: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or beans for a plant-based twist.
- Slow Cooker Goulash: Transfer all the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours for a tender and flavorful meal.
Tips for Success: Mastering the Art
- Use high-quality ground beef for a richer flavor.
- Don’t overcook the ground beef, as it will become tough.
- Sauté the vegetables until they have a bit of color to enhance their sweetness.
- Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasonings to your liking.
- Serve the goulash with a side of crusty bread or pasta for a satisfying meal.
Nutritional Value: A Nourishing Delight
This ground beef goulash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:
- Protein: The ground beef provides a substantial amount of protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.
- Fiber: The vegetables add fiber to the dish, promoting digestive health and satiety.
- Vitamins and Minerals: The tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and vegetables provide a variety of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, potassium, and iron.
Final Thoughts: A Culinary Triumph
Making ground beef goulash is a culinary adventure that will bring joy to your taste buds and warmth to your soul. With its savory flavors, tender vegetables, and endless variations, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe book. So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and embark on a culinary journey that will leave you craving more.
Frequently Asked Questions: Unlocking the Secrets
Q: How long can I store the goulash?
A: Properly stored in an airtight container, the goulash can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze the goulash?
A: Yes, you can freeze the goulash for up to 3 months. Defrost it overnight in the refrigerator or in the microwave before reheating.
Q: What are some additional toppings I can add to the goulash?
A: Consider adding shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, or a dollop of plain yogurt for extra flavor and texture.
