Pork goulash

Pork Goulash: A Classic and Satisfying Recipe

When it comes to culinary comfort, few recipes can match the deliciousness of a pork goulash. This dish is not only nourishing but also an explosion of flavors that will delight your senses. Goulash has a rich history, being a dish that has evolved over time, adapting to the available ingredients and the cultural preferences of each region. Therefore, each version of goulash is unique and reflects the cooking style of the area in which it is prepared.

Total Time: 2 hours
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

- 500 g pork (you can use shoulder or leg for a more tender result)
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 2 red peppers, diced
- 1 can (about 400 g) chopped tomatoes in their juice
- 1 kg potatoes, peeled and diced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon paprika (sweet or spicy, depending on preference)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 250 ml tomato juice (or water, as preferred)
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Step-by-Step Preparation:

1. Preparing the meat: Start by cutting the pork into slices about 2 cm thick. These will become tender and flavorful after cooking. Season the meat with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance its flavor.

2. Browning the meat: In a large pot heated over medium heat, add a little oil (preferably sunflower or olive oil) and place the meat to fry. Make sure not to overcrowd the slices to achieve even browning. Fry the meat for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden. This step is essential for creating a rich flavor base.

3. Add the onion: Once the meat is browned, add the chopped onion. Stir occasionally, allowing the onion to soften for about 5-8 minutes. It will add sweetness and depth to the goulash.

4. Incorporate the peppers: The next step is to add the diced red peppers. They will bring a note of freshness and vibrant color to the dish. Mix everything well and let it cook together for another 5 minutes.

5. Tomatoes and spices: Add the canned chopped tomatoes, paprika, tomato paste, and bay leaf. Stir to combine the flavors. The tomato juice or water added now will help form a delicious sauce. Make sure everything is well mixed.

6. The potatoes: Add the diced potatoes and enough water (or tomato juice) to cover the ingredients. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer over low heat for about 1 hour. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

7. Final touches: After the goulash has cooked, taste and add salt, pepper, and chopped fresh parsley to your liking. These final adjustments will enhance the flavor and freshness.

Serving: The goulash is served hot, alongside a generous portion of fresh bread or polenta. A bottle of red wine or a cold beer can perfectly complement the culinary experience.

Practical Tips:

- You can also add other vegetables, such as carrots or celery, to enrich the texture and flavor of the goulash.
- If you prefer a spicier goulash, feel free to add chili peppers or chili sauce.
- For an even more intense flavor, let the goulash sit for a few hours or even overnight; the flavors will have time to develop.

Nutritional Information (per serving, estimated):

- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 28 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fat: 18 g

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use chicken instead of pork?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe using chicken or even beef, but the cooking time may vary.

2. What side dishes go well with goulash?
Goulash is delicious alongside rice, bread, or polenta. You can also serve it with a green salad for a fresh contrast.

3. How can I store goulash?
You can store cooled goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for a longer time, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to preserve the flavors.

This pork goulash recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor. With each serving, you will feel the warmth and comfort of a traditional dish that combines simple ingredients with cooking techniques passed down through generations. So, embrace the art of cooking and enjoy every step of this delicious adventure!