Slow-Cooked Beef Goulash

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Slow-Cooked Beef Goulash to bring comfort and flavor to the table. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends. With its rich sauce and tender beef, it captures the essence of hearty European cuisine. The unique blend of spices sets this recipe apart, making it not just a meal but an experience that transports you to Hungary.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The slow cooking process infuses every bite with deep, savory flavors that are hard to resist.
• Easy Preparation: Simply toss everything into your slow cooker and let it do the work while you relax.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect for lunch or dinner, this goulash pairs well with various sides, from bread to rice.
• Feed a Crowd: Ideal for family gatherings or Sunday dinners, this recipe can easily be scaled up depending on your needs.
• Comforting Meal: A warm bowl of beef goulash is perfect for chilly days when you crave something hearty.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything on hand will make your experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Slow cooker
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Slow cooker: Allows for even cooking over a long period, enhancing flavor and tenderness.
• Chef’s knife: Ensures quick and safe chopping of ingredients for efficient preparation.

Ingredients

For the Beef Goulash

• 2 pounds chuck beef, cut into chunks
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 4 cups beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

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How to Make Slow-Cooked Beef Goulash

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Start by chopping the onions and mincing the garlic. Cut the chuck beef into bite-sized chunks for even cooking.

Step 2: Sear the Beef (Optional)

For added depth of flavor, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef chunks until browned on all sides before transferring them to the slow cooker.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Slow Cooker

In your slow cooker, add the seared beef (if searing), diced onions, minced garlic, tomato paste, paprika, caraway seeds, and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Cook on Low Heat

Cover your slow cooker and set it on low heat. Allow it to cook for 6-8 hours or until the beef is fork-tender.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once cooked, taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with fresh parsley sprinkled on top as a garnish.

Ready to enjoy your homemade Slow-Cooked Beef Goulash? Gather some friends or family around the table—it’s time to dig in!

How to Serve Slow-Cooked Beef Goulash

A warm bowl of Slow-Cooked Beef Goulash is perfect for sharing and enjoying with family and friends. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A fresh, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the rich sauce.
• Homemade Rolls: Soft homemade rolls add a comforting touch and soak up the savory flavors.

Over Noodles or Rice

• Egg Noodles: Serve goulash over tender egg noodles for a heartier dish.
• Steamed Rice: Fluffy steamed rice complements the flavors and makes for a filling meal.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
• Thyme Sprigs: Add a few sprigs of thyme for an aromatic finish.

Pairing with a Side Salad

• Green Salad: A light green salad balances the richness of the goulash.
• Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast in texture.

How to Perfect Slow-Cooked Beef Goulash

Perfecting your Slow-Cooked Beef Goulash takes practice, but these tips will help you achieve the best results.

• Use Quality Meat: Choose well-marbled beef chuck for rich flavor and tenderness.
• Brown the Meat: Searing the beef before slow cooking adds depth to the overall taste.
• Add Aromatics Early: Include onions and garlic at the start to build a flavorful base.
• Don’t Rush Cooking Time: Allow enough time for slow cooking to develop rich flavors; 6-8 hours is ideal.
• Adjust Seasonings Last: Taste and adjust the seasoning toward the end for balanced flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Slow-Cooked Beef Goulash

When serving Slow-Cooked Beef Goulash, pairing it with delicious side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are perfect for soaking up the sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition to your plate.
3. Polenta: Soft polenta provides a comforting base that pairs beautifully with goulash.
4. Crispy Potato Wedges: Golden potato wedges offer a satisfying crunch alongside your stew.
5. Pickles or Pickled Vegetables: A tangy contrast that cuts through the richness of goulash.
6. Garlic Bread: This classic side is great for dipping into your saucy beef stew.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Slow-Cooked Beef Goulash can be a joy, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Overcooking the beef: This can lead to tough meat. Ensure you cook it just long enough to become tender.
• Using low-quality ingredients: Quality matters in dishes like goulash. Always choose fresh vegetables and good cuts of meat for the best flavor.
• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the beef can result in a less flavorful dish. Take the time to sear the meat for rich, deep flavors.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Tasting during cooking is key. Adjust spices and salt as needed to enhance the final dish.
• Rushing the cooking time: Slow cooking is essential for flavor development. Resist the urge to shorten the cooking time; patience pays off.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the stew to cool before refrigerating to maintain quality.

Freezing Slow-Cooked Beef Goulash

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Slow-Cooked Beef Goulash

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat covered until warm. This method keeps the goulash moist.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Place on medium heat in a saucepan and stir occasionally until heated through, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Slow-Cooked Beef Goulash?

Slow-Cooked Beef Goulash is a hearty stew made with tender beef, vegetables, and spices, simmered slowly for deep flavor.

Can I customize my Slow-Cooked Beef Goulash?

Yes! You can add different vegetables like bell peppers or carrots, or adjust spices according to your taste preferences.

How do I serve Slow-Cooked Beef Goulash?

This dish pairs well with bread, noodles, or rice. It’s perfect as a comforting Sunday dinner recipe.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! Slow-Cooked Beef Goulash often tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together.

Final Thoughts

Slow-Cooked Beef Goulash is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with various ingredients based on your preferences. Try this recipe for a comforting meal that brings warmth and richness to your table!

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Slow-Cooked Beef Goulash

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 13 minute
• Yield: Serves approximately 6

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Description

Indulge in the warmth and flavor of Slow-Cooked Beef Goulash, a comforting dish that embodies the spirit of hearty European cuisine. This rich stew features tender chunks of beef simmered with aromatic spices, creating a mouthwatering experience that transports you straight to Hungary. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. With each bite, you’ll savor deep savory flavors that make every meal special. Serve it alongside crusty bread, noodles, or rice for a truly delightful dining experience.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 pounds chuck beef, cut into chunks
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 4 cups beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

1. Chop onions and mince garlic; cut chuck beef into bite-sized pieces.
2. Optional: Sear beef chunks in a skillet over medium-high heat until browned.
3. In a slow cooker, combine seared beef (if applicable), onions, garlic, tomato paste, paprika, caraway seeds, and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Cover and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours until the beef is fork-tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed; serve hot with fresh parsley on top.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 6-8 hours
• Category: Main
• Method: Slow Cooking
• Cuisine: Hungarian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 16g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 80mg

Keywords: For added depth of flavor, do not skip the browning step of the beef. Customize your goulash by adding vegetables like bell peppers or carrots. This dish tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together.