Pork goulash

Pork Goulash: A Soul Recipe, Full of Flavors and Warmth

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

In a hectic world, some recipes manage to bring us closer to traditions, pleasant memories, and moments spent with loved ones. Pork goulash is one of those dishes that not only delights the taste buds but also fills the house with inviting aromas. This simple and flavorful recipe is perfect for a family dinner or to impress friends at a festive meal. Let’s begin the culinary adventure!

The History of Goulash

Goulash is a historic dish, originating from the culinary traditions of several cultures. It is a meal that has evolved over time, being adapted each time to the available ingredients. Due to its versatility, goulash has become known worldwide, with countless variations. In this recipe, we focus on the delicious combination of pork and vegetables, which gives it an unmistakable taste.

Ingredients

1. 4 slices of pork shoulder (about 600 g)
2. 150 g smoked bacon (choose a smoked variant for a more intense flavor)
3. 1 medium white onion
4. 1 carrot (fresh and crunchy)
5. 1 red bell pepper (for a splash of color and sweetness)
6. 1 tablespoon sweet paprika (it will give a beautiful color)
7. 2 tablespoons pepper paste (you can use homemade pepper paste for better flavor)
8. 6 medium potatoes (about 800 g)
9. 1 tablespoon oil (sunflower oil or olive oil)
10. Salt (to taste)
11. Pepper (to taste)
12. Water (enough to cover the ingredients)
13. Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Useful Tips for Preparing the Recipe

- Make sure the ingredients are fresh to achieve a goulash full of flavors.
- Prepare all the ingredients before starting to cook, so you will work more efficiently.
- Use a sharp knife to cut the meat and vegetables evenly.

Step-by-Step Preparation

1. Preparing the meat:
Start by cutting the pork shoulder and bacon into cubes of about 2 cm. This will allow for even cooking and help release the flavors.

2. Sautéing the meat:
In a deep skillet or pot, add the oil and let it heat up slightly. Add the pork and bacon cubes. Sauté them over medium heat until the meat changes color and becomes slightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. It is important to turn them occasionally to cook evenly.

3. Preparing the vegetables:
Meanwhile, chop the white onion into small cubes, slice the carrot, and cut the red bell pepper into strips. When the meat is ready, add the vegetables to the pot and mix well. Cook everything together for 5-7 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.

4. Adding the spices:
Once the vegetables have softened, add salt, pepper, sweet paprika, and pepper paste. These will add depth and a rich flavor to the dish. Mix everything well and let it simmer together for 2-3 minutes.

5. Boiling the goulash:
Cut the potatoes into large cubes so they hold up during cooking. Add them to the pot and pour in enough water to cover all the ingredients. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the goulash simmer for about 30-40 minutes until the potatoes are tender and the meat is juicy.

6. Finalizing the dish:
When the goulash is nearly done, add 1 cup of sour cream for a creamy touch and a slightly tangy flavor. Mix well and let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes.

7. Serving:
The goulash is ready! Serve it hot, sprinkled with freshly chopped parsley on top. It can be accompanied by a slice of fresh bread or polenta to soak up the delicious juices.

Useful Tips

- Variations: You can add other vegetables, such as celery or zucchini, to diversify the flavor. You can also substitute pork with beef or chicken, depending on your preferences.
- Enhancing the flavor: If you want an even more aromatic goulash, you can add a few black peppercorns, bay leaves, or even a teaspoon of crushed garlic. These will add an extra layer of flavor.
- Goulash in a jar: If you want to prepare the goulash in advance, you can preserve it in sterilized jars. This way, you have a quick meal on hand for days when you don’t have time to cook.

Nutritional Benefits

Pork goulash is a balanced meal that provides protein from the meat, carbohydrates from the potatoes, and vitamins from the vegetables. Consumed in moderation, this dish can be part of a healthy diet. It is important to use fresh and quality ingredients, which will contribute to optimal nutritional intake.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can use beef or chicken. The goulash will have a different flavor, but it will be just as delicious.

2. What should I do if the goulash is too salty?
You can add a few extra potatoes, which will absorb the excess salt. Make sure to remove them at the end.

3. How can I make the goulash spicier?
Add hot peppers or chili flakes for an extra kick.

Pork goulash is a dish that will not only delight your taste buds but will also bring to your table a part of the culinary traditions of the past. With every bite, you will feel the warmth and joy of cooking. So, don’t hesitate! Put on your chef’s apron and let yourself be carried away by the magical aromas of this comforting goulash!