Beef goulash with mushrooms

Beef Goulash with Mushrooms - a Savory Recipe

Beef goulash with mushrooms is a traditional recipe that combines the rich flavors of meat with the meaty texture of mushrooms and the sweetness of vegetables. It is a comforting dish, perfect for chilly days when you need something to warm you up and indulge your taste buds. The origins of this dish are deeply rooted in culinary culture, based on spice blends and cooking techniques that have evolved over time.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Necessary ingredients:
- 1,500 g beef (choose a cut with a suitable amount of fat, such as shoulder or neck)
- 4 large onions
- 5 bell peppers
- 2 hot peppers (you can adjust the amount according to your spice preferences)
- 400 g tomatoes in purée
- 150 g mushrooms (you can use champignon or any other preferred mushrooms)
- 100 ml olive oil
- 400 ml water
- 2 tablespoons sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (this will add a slightly smoky flavor)
- 1 tablespoon caraway seeds
- 1 tablespoon Delikat (or salt, to taste)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- 400 g pasta (choose your preferred type, from spaghetti to penne)

Step by step for a perfect goulash:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling and slicing the onions into thin rings. Cutting the onion into larger slices helps release flavors during cooking. The next step is to prepare the peppers. Roast the bell peppers in a hot pan or on a grill until the skin becomes black and crispy. Then, peel them and remove the stems, slicing them into strips. The hot peppers should be chopped finely or sliced, depending on how spicy you want the goulash. Dice the tomatoes and clean and slice the mushrooms.

2. Cooking the meat: In a large pot, heat the olive oil. Add the beef cut into approximately 2 cm cubes and brown it on all sides. This step is essential to seal in the juices of the meat and give it a tender texture.

3. Adding the vegetables: Once the meat is browned, add the sliced onion and mushrooms. Sauté them together for 15 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and the mushrooms release their juices. This mixture will form the flavorful base of the goulash.

4. Including the peppers: Add the roasted bell peppers and hot peppers to the pot, then let them cook together for 10 minutes. The flavors will combine, and you’ll feel the entire room fill with an irresistible aroma.

5. Seasoning: Now it’s time to add the sweet paprika, smoked paprika, caraway seeds, and water. Mix well and let the goulash simmer for 30 minutes. This time allows the flavors to develop and integrate into the meat and vegetables.

6. Finalizing the dish: After 30 minutes, add the tomatoes in purée and Delikat (or salt) to taste. Let everything simmer for another 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.

7. Preparing the pasta: In a separate pot, boil the pasta according to the package instructions. Once cooked, drain and sauté them with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, then sprinkle a little ground caraway for extra flavor.

8. Serving: The goulash is served hot, alongside the flavored pasta. Sprinkle finely chopped fresh parsley on top for added freshness and color.

Practical tips:
- If you want a spicier goulash, you can also add fresh hot peppers or chili flakes.
- Experiment with different types of mushrooms to add variety to the texture and flavor.
- You can replace the beef with pork or chicken, depending on your preferences, but the cooking time may vary.

Nutritional benefits:
This beef goulash with mushrooms is rich in protein and vitamins thanks to the meat and vegetables. Mushrooms are an excellent source of antioxidants, while bell peppers are full of vitamin C.

Possible variations:
- Replace the pasta with rice or even mashed potatoes for a different serving option.
- Add a splash of red wine during cooking for an even deeper flavor.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, chicken can be used, but the cooking time will be shorter.

2. What type of pasta is most recommended?
Penne or farfalle pasta pairs very well with goulash.

3. How can I store the goulash for reheating?
It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. Reheat on low heat, adding a little water to rehydrate it.

This is beef goulash with mushrooms, a recipe that combines tradition with modern flavors, perfect for any occasion. I guarantee it will quickly become a favorite in your family. Enjoy your meal!