Description
Hungarian goulash brings hearty comfort from traditional kitchens, blending rich beef, paprika-infused broth, and tender vegetables into a soul-warming meal. Passionate cooks can easily craft this classic European dish that delivers robust flavors and genuine culinary warmth.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat:
- 1 pound ground beef (80/20)
Vegetables:
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
Pantry Ingredients:
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups beef broth (low-sodium)
- 2 cups elbow macaroni
- 1 tablespoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, thoroughly brown the ground beef, crumbling it into fine pieces. Carefully drain any accumulated fat to ensure a clean, rich base for the dish.
- Introduce diced onions, minced garlic, and vibrant bell peppers to the beef. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and release their aromatic flavors, creating a robust foundation.
- Pour in diced tomatoes and beef broth, creating a savory liquid base. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, allowing the ingredients to harmonize and develop a deep, complex flavor profile.
- Incorporate elbow macaroni, along with paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Ensure the pasta is completely submerged in the liquid, stirring thoroughly to distribute the spices evenly.
- Reduce heat to a low simmer, cover the pot, and let the goulash cook for 20-25 minutes. Occasionally stir to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. The pasta should become tender and absorb most of the liquid, creating a thick, hearty consistency.
- Once the pasta reaches perfect tenderness and the liquid has reduced, remove from heat. Allow the goulash to rest for a few minutes, which helps the flavors meld and the dish to set slightly before serving piping hot.
Notes
- Customize the pasta type to match dietary needs, like gluten-free or whole wheat options for added nutrition.
- Drain ground beef thoroughly to reduce excess fat and create a leaner dish without compromising flavor.
- Enhance flavor complexity by adding a splash of red wine or a dash of smoked paprika during cooking for deeper taste profile.
- Consider making this dish vegetarian by substituting ground beef with plant-based crumbles or lentils for a protein-packed alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Lunch, Dinner
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Hungarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6
- Calories: 410 kcal
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 420 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0.5 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg