Pork goulash

Pork Goulash - A Tasty Recipe for Unforgettable Moments

Goulash is a traditional dish with a rich history that has gathered not only a multitude of memories but also many variations adapted to the tastes and ingredients available in each area. Although it is often made with beef, today we will focus on a delicious version with pork, perfect for a family meal or a gathering with friends. It is a hearty, flavorful, and comforting dish that is sure to bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:

- 500 g pork (shoulder or back is ideal)
- 3 large onions
- 4 medium potatoes
- 1 bell pepper (or sweet pepper)
- 200 g canned tomatoes (or 2 ripe fresh tomatoes)
- 50 ml oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil)
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika (or spicy, depending on preference)
- 1 teaspoon cumin (seeds or ground)
- 1 teaspoon vegetable seasoning (or other preferred seasoning)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- 2-3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Step by step in preparing pork goulash:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling and chopping all the ingredients. Cut the pork into cubes of about 2-3 cm, the onion into thin slices, the pepper into small cubes, and the potatoes into large pieces. This step is crucial for even cooking of all ingredients.

2. Sautéing the meat: In a large pot, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the pork cubes and sauté for 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides. This step will help develop the deep flavors of the goulash.

3. Adding vegetables: Once the meat is browned, add the sliced onion and pepper. Continue to sauté for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and soft.

4. Seasoning: Add the paprika and cumin, mixing well to combine with the meat and vegetables. These spices are essential for giving the goulash its characteristic flavor. Add vegetable seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste, then pour in a little water (about 100 ml) to prevent sticking.

5. Boiling: Cover the pot with a lid and let the goulash simmer on low heat for 20 minutes. This step will allow the meat to become tender.

6. Adding potatoes: After 20 minutes, add the peeled and chopped potatoes. Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients. Boil everything for 20 minutes until the potatoes are soft.

7. Finishing the goulash: At the end, add the chopped tomatoes and bay leaf. Let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Check the taste and adjust the spices if necessary.

8. Serving: The goulash is served hot, sprinkled with chopped fresh parsley, alongside pickles or fresh bread. It is an excellent choice for an autumn or winter meal when rich and comforting flavors are most sought after.

Useful tips:

- Choosing the meat: Pork with a certain fat content is ideal for goulash, as it provides extra flavor and juiciness.
- Dumpling variant: If you want to experiment, you can add dumplings made from flour and egg in the last 10 minutes of cooking for an even heartier goulash.
- Thickening the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can add a tablespoon of flour to the meat and onion mixture before adding the liquid.
- Storing leftovers: Goulash keeps excellently in the refrigerator and may even taste better the next day after the flavors have had time to blend.

Combinations and serving suggestions:

Pork goulash pairs perfectly with mashed potatoes or a fresh salad to balance the rich flavors. You can accompany the meal with a glass of red wine or even a cold beer to complement the delicious flavors of the goulash.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use beef instead of pork? Yes, it is a classic and equally delicious variant.
- How can I adapt the recipe to make it easier? You can use pre-cut pork cubes from the store and frozen vegetables to reduce preparation time.
- Is this recipe healthy? Pork goulash is high in protein, and the vegetables provide a significant amount of vitamins and minerals.

We hope this pork goulash recipe inspires you to gather your family and friends for a tasty meal full of stories to tell. Enjoy your meal!