Beef goulash with potatoes

Beef Goulash with Potatoes - A Traditional Recipe Full of Flavor

If you're looking for a recipe for beef goulash with potatoes, you're in the right place! This delicious dish, often associated with Hungarian cuisine, has gained popularity worldwide, becoming a beloved preparation in many cultures. Personally, I had the chance to taste authentic goulash from Hungary and was impressed by its rich flavors and consistency. So, I invite you to prepare this savory goulash, perfect for a family meal or a dinner with friends.

Total preparation time: 3-4 hours (2-3 hours of slow cooking + 1 hour of preparation)
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 700 g beef (choose a fattier cut, such as chuck or neck)
- 5 tablespoons sunflower or olive oil
- 3 medium onions
- 5 cloves of garlic
- 1 glass of dry white wine
- 500 g potatoes (preferably yellow-skinned, for better taste)
- 1 glass of tomato juice
- 1 tablespoon mustard
- 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 bell peppers (preferably one red and one green)
- fresh parsley, for garnish

Preparation:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by washing the beef under cold running water, then cut it into cubes about 3-4 cm in size. This size will allow the meat to cook evenly and absorb the flavors from the sauce.

2. Browning the meat: In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the meat cubes and brown them until golden on all sides. This will help keep the meat juicy and add a delicious flavor to the dish.

3. Adding the onions: Slice the onions thinly and add them to the pot after the meat has browned. Sauté the onions with the meat for 5-7 minutes until they become translucent.

4. Boiling the meat: Pour 2-3 cups of water over the meat and onions, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer on low heat for 2-3 hours. The cooking time depends on the age and texture of the meat. If the meat is younger, it will cook faster.

5. Preparing the potatoes: While the meat is boiling, peel the potatoes and cut them into quarters. This will allow them to absorb the flavors from the goulash. Also, peel and finely chop the garlic.

6. Adding flavor ingredients: After the meat has boiled for 2-3 hours, add the potatoes, chopped garlic, white wine, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and let it simmer on low heat, covered, until the potatoes are almost done.

7. Finishing the dish: Once the potatoes are cooked, add the diced peppers, the tomato juice mixed with mustard, and the paprika. These ingredients will give the goulash a rich taste and beautiful color. Let everything simmer for another 10-15 minutes for the flavors to meld.

8. Serving: The goulash is ready when the meat is tender, and the potatoes are well-cooked. Serve it hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley on top. You can accompany this dish with fresh bread or a crispy green salad.

Useful tips:
- Choose quality beef with a higher fat content for a tastier goulash.
- If you want a spicier version, add a finely chopped hot pepper during cooking.
- The goulash can be prepared a few hours in advance, and the flavor improves as it sits, so don’t hesitate to reheat it the next day.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This beef goulash with potatoes recipe offers a hearty meal, rich in protein from the meat, carbohydrates from the potatoes, and a good amount of vitamins from the vegetables. One serving (about 300 g) contains around 450-500 calories, depending on the oil used and the amount of meat. Goulash is an excellent choice for a comforting, nutrient-rich meal.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use pork instead of beef?
Yes, you can substitute beef with pork, but the taste will be different. Make sure to adjust the cooking time, as pork cooks faster.

2. What drinks pair well with goulash?
A dry white wine or a pale lager pairs excellently with goulash, adding extra flavor.

3. Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, you can experiment by adding carrots, celery, or even zucchini to diversify the recipe.

4. How can I make the goulash spicier?
Add hot paprika or finely chopped fresh chili to intensify the flavor.

The beef goulash with potatoes recipe is an ideal choice for a comforting and tasty dinner. Once you’ve gone through all the steps, you’ll enjoy a savory dish that will surely impress your family and friends. It may not be identical to the one from Hungary, but it will certainly have its unique charm. Happy cooking!