Beef goulash with spätzle

Beef goulash with spatzle - a delicious and comforting recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 75 minutes
Total time: 95 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Today, I invite you to embark on a delicious culinary journey with a recipe for beef goulash with spatzle, a dish that perfectly combines the rich flavors of meat with the fine textures of pasta. This recipe is ideal for a family dinner or a special lunch with friends.

The history of goulash is fascinating, with deep roots in culinary traditions. It is a dish that has been enjoyed for generations, bringing people together around the table. Goulash has evolved in different forms over time, but its essence remains unchanged: a rich stew, full of flavors and warmth.

Ingredients

- 600 g beef pieces (ideally use chuck or round)
- 3 large yellow onions
- 3 bell peppers (red, green, or yellow)
- 1 can of mushrooms (about 400 g)
- 2-3 tablespoons sunflower oil
- Iodized salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tablespoons sweet paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- 1-2 tablespoons dried thyme
- 250 ml tomato paste
- 300 g spatzle (egg noodles)

Preparation instructions

Step 1: Preparing the vegetables
The first step in achieving a delicious goulash is to prepare the vegetables. Peel the onions and peppers, then chop them finely. The canned mushrooms should be well drained. This step is essential to avoid a watery goulash and to concentrate the flavors.

Step 2: Heating the oil
In a large pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of sunflower oil and heat it over medium heat. The oil will help sauté the vegetables and allow the flavors to develop.

Step 3: Sautéing the vegetables
Add the chopped onion and peppers to the hot oil. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion becomes translucent and the peppers are slightly soft. This mixture will form the flavorful base of the goulash.

Step 4: Adding the meat
Now it’s time to add the beef pieces. Let them brown nicely on all sides. This process will add an extra layer of flavor to the goulash.

Step 5: Seasoning
After the meat has browned, add the drained mushrooms, salt, pepper, sweet paprika, thyme, and bay leaf. Mix well to combine the flavors.

Step 6: Simmering the goulash
Add approximately 1000 ml of water. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and let it simmer over medium heat for 60 minutes. This step is essential for allowing the meat to become tender and for developing the flavors.

Step 7: Preparing the spatzle
While the goulash is simmering, prepare the spatzle according to the package instructions. Usually, they are boiled in salted water for 3-5 minutes. Once cooked, drain them and rinse quickly under cold running water to stop the cooking process.

Step 8: Finishing the goulash
After the 60 minutes have passed, add the diluted tomato paste to the goulash. Let it simmer for another 15 minutes over medium heat to blend the flavors.

Step 9: Mixing the spatzle
Finally, mix the spatzle with the meat and goulash sauce. Make sure all the noodles are evenly coated with the sauce.

Serving
Serve the goulash hot, garnished with pickles for a pleasant contrast. This dish pairs wonderfully with a green salad or fresh bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

Helpful tips
- Choose the right meat: A moderately fatty beef will ensure a juicier and more flavorful goulash.
- Spices are key: Don’t hesitate to adjust the spices to your taste. A hint of chili powder can add an extra kick.
- Homemade spatzle: If you’re eager to try, spatzle can be made at home. It’s a simple process that can add an extra touch of authenticity to the dish.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use another type of meat? Yes, you can use pork or chicken, but the cooking time will vary.
- What other side dishes can I use? Besides spatzle, rice or mashed potatoes are excellent options.
- Can the goulash be frozen? Yes, goulash freezes well. Make sure it is completely cooled before freezing.

Nutritional benefits
This beef goulash is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals. Beef provides iron, essential for hemoglobin formation, while the vegetables offer a rich supply of fiber and antioxidants.

So, get ready to treat your friends and family to this beef goulash with spatzle, a dish that will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!