Warm and comforting old fashioned goulash plated with a side of steamed green beans and mashed potatoes.

Delve into the rich, comforting flavors of our Old Fashioned Goulash—a classic dish that has warmed hearts and satisfied appetites for generations. This hearty stew combines tender beef, savory vegetables, and a robust tomato-based sauce, creating a delightful blend of textures and tastes that embody the essence of traditional comfort food. Perfect for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or any occasion that calls for a satisfying meal, this goulash recipe is both timeless and versatile. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or new to the kitchen, our Old Fashioned Goulash offers a straightforward yet flavorful experience that promises to become a staple in your culinary repertoire.

Hearty old fashioned goulash served in a deep bowl, topped with a sprinkle of fresh parsley

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover how to craft the perfect Old Fashioned Goulash from scratch. From selecting the finest cuts of beef to mastering the art of slow simmering, each step is meticulously detailed to ensure a delicious and hearty result. You’ll also find tips for customization, creative variations to suit different tastes, and answers to common questions, empowering you to create a standout goulash that’s as impressive as it is comforting. By the end of this article, you’ll have everything you need to prepare an Old Fashioned Goulash that delights both eyes and palate.

Why You’ll Love This Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe

  1. Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with tender beef, robust vegetables, and a rich sauce, this goulash is a complete and fulfilling meal.
  2. Simple Preparation: Easy-to-follow steps make this recipe accessible for cooks of all levels.
  3. Versatile and Customizable: Adapt the ingredients and spices to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs.
  4. Perfect for Batch Cooking: Ideal for making in large quantities, making it great for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
  5. Timeless Flavor: Combines classic ingredients and flavors that have stood the test of time in comfort cuisine.
  6. Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ingredients without compromising on taste or quality.

Whether you’re seeking a comforting meal on a cold night or a dish that brings nostalgic flavors to your table, this Old Fashioned Goulash recipe is sure to satisfy your culinary cravings.

Essential Ingredients for Old Fashioned Goulash

Creating the perfect Old Fashioned Goulash involves selecting fresh, high-quality ingredients that blend harmoniously. Here’s what you’ll need:

Ingredient Table

Component Ingredient Quantity/Notes Purpose/Flavor Notes
Beef Beef Chuck or Stew Meat 2 pounds, cut into 1-inch cubes Provides the hearty, tender base of the goulash
Vegetables Onion 1 large, diced Adds sweetness and depth of flavor
Garlic 3 cloves, minced Enhances the savory profile
Carrots 2 large, sliced into rounds Introduces sweetness and texture
Bell Peppers 2 (various colors), sliced Adds vibrant color and crispness
Potatoes 2 medium, diced Contributes to the hearty texture
Tomato Base Crushed Tomatoes 1 can (28 ounces) Forms the rich, flavorful sauce
Tomato Paste 2 tablespoons Intensifies the tomato flavor
Beef Broth 2 cups Adds depth and richness to the sauce
Spices and Seasonings Paprika 2 teaspoons Provides smoky and sweet undertones
Dried Oregano 1 teaspoon Adds aromatic herbiness
Dried Thyme 1 teaspoon Enhances the earthy flavors
Bay Leaves 2 Infuses the stew with subtle floral notes
Salt To taste Balances the flavors
Black Pepper To taste Adds a mild heat and seasoning
Thickening Agents All-Purpose Flour 2 tablespoons Thickens the stew
Cornstarch 1 tablespoon (optional) Alternative thickener for a glossier sauce
Fat Olive Oil or Vegetable Oil 2 tablespoons Sautéing and browning the beef and vegetables
Optional Add-Ins Worcestershire Sauce 1 tablespoon Adds umami depth
Red Wine ½ cup (optional) Introduces complexity and richness to the sauce
Fresh Parsley For garnish Adds freshness and color
Serving Suggestions Cooked Egg Noodles or Rice For serving Complements the hearty stew
Sour Cream For topping (optional) Adds creaminess and tang
Shredded Cheese For topping (optional) Enhances the savory richness

Pro Tip: Choosing a well-marbled cut of beef like chuck ensures maximum tenderness and flavor in your goulash.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Old Fashioned Goulash

Close-up of traditional old fashioned goulash showcasing tender beef, vegetables, and a rich tomato sauce.

Follow these detailed instructions to craft a Old Fashioned Goulash that’s both delicious and visually appealing.

Step 1 – Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Cut the Beef:
    • Trim any excess fat from the beef chuck and cut it into 1-inch cubes. Pat dry with paper towels to ensure proper browning.
  2. Chop the Vegetables:
    • Dice the onion, mince the garlic, slice the carrots and bell peppers, and dice the potatoes. Keep them organized for easy access during cooking.

Pro Tip: Uniformly cut vegetables ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the dish.

Step 2 – Brown the Beef

  1. Heat the Oil:
    • In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
  2. Brown the Beef:
    • Add the beef cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the meat on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Remove and set aside.

Pro Tip: Browning the beef in batches prevents steaming, allowing for a rich, caramelized exterior.

Step 3 – Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
    • In the same pot, add the diced onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute.
  2. Add Carrots and Bell Peppers:
    • Stir in the sliced carrots and bell peppers, cooking for another 5 minutes until they begin to soften.

Pro Tip: Deglaze the pot with a splash of beef broth or red wine to lift the flavorful browned bits from the bottom.

Step 4 – Build the Stew

  1. Return the Beef to the Pot:
    • Add the browned beef back into the pot with the sautéed vegetables.
  2. Add Tomato Base:
    • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
  3. Season the Stew:
    • Add paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper. Stir to evenly distribute the spices.
  4. Optional Enhancements:
    • For added depth, stir in Worcestershire sauce and a splash of red wine.

Pro Tip: Taste and adjust the seasoning as you go, ensuring a well-balanced flavor profile.

Delicious homemade old fashioned goulash paired with crusty bread for dipping into the savory gravy

Step 5 – Simmer the Goulash

  1. Bring to a Boil:
    • Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
  2. Reduce to a Simmer:
    • Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
  3. Add Potatoes:
    • After the initial simmering time, add the diced potatoes. Continue to simmer until the beef is tender and the potatoes are cooked through, approximately 30 minutes more.

Pro Tip: Low and slow cooking allows the flavors to meld and the beef to become melt-in-your-mouth tender.

Step 6 – Thicken the Sauce

  1. Mix Thickening Agents:
    • In a small bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour and a few tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Alternatively, dissolve cornstarch in cold water for a glossier finish.
  2. Incorporate into the Stew:
    • Slowly pour the flour mixture into the simmering goulash, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Let it cook for an additional 10 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  3. Final Seasoning:
    • Remove the bay leaves and taste the goulash. Adjust salt and pepper as needed.

Pro Tip: For a richer sauce, you can stir in a tablespoon of butter at the end of cooking.

Step 7 – Serve and Garnish

  1. Prepare the Serving Base:
    • Cook your choice of egg noodles or rice according to package instructions as a base for the goulash.
  2. Plate the Goulash:
    • Spoon a generous portion of the beef and vegetable stew over the noodles or rice.
  3. Garnish:
    • Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over the top and add a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese if desired.

Pro Tip: Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Old Fashioned Goulash

Rustic old fashioned goulash simmering in a cast-iron pot with colorful bell peppers and potatoes

Achieving the perfect Old Fashioned Goulash involves a few key techniques and tips:

  1. Choose the Right Cut of Beef:
    • Opt for chuck or stew meat, which becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked.
  2. Proper Browning:
    • Ensure the beef is well-browned to develop a deep, rich flavor in the stew.
  3. Low and Slow Cooking:
    • Allow the goulash to simmer gently for an extended period to tenderize the beef and meld the flavors.
  4. Layer Flavors:
    • Add spices and herbs at different stages to build a complex and balanced flavor profile.
  5. Consistency Control:
    • Adjust the thickness of the stew by adding more broth for a thinner consistency or using thickening agents like flour or cornstarch for a heartier sauce.
  6. Fresh Ingredients:
    • Use fresh vegetables and high-quality tomatoes to enhance the overall taste and nutrition of the dish.
  7. Taste and Adjust:
    • Continuously taste the goulash during cooking and adjust seasoning as needed to achieve the desired flavor balance.

Pro Tip: For an extra layer of flavor, incorporate a splash of red wine or a touch of smoked paprika into the stew.

Creative Variations of Old Fashioned Goulash

Classic old fashioned goulash featuring chunks of beef, carrots, and celery in a flavorful broth.

While the classic Old Fashioned Goulash is delicious on its own, experimenting with different flavors and ingredients can add excitement and personalization to your dish. Here are some inspiring variations to try:

1. Hungarian-Style Goulash

  • Add Paprika:
    • Increase the amount of paprika and incorporate Hungarian sweet paprika for an authentic flavor.
  • Include Caraway Seeds:
    • Add a teaspoon of caraway seeds to enhance the traditional taste.
  • Serve with Nokedli:
    • Pair with Hungarian egg noodles called nokedli instead of regular egg noodles or rice.

2. Vegetarian Goulash

  • Replace Beef with Mushrooms:
    • Use a mix of hearty mushrooms like cremini and portobello to substitute beef.
  • Add More Vegetables:
    • Incorporate additional vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant for a robust vegetarian option.
  • Use Vegetable Broth:
    • Substitute beef broth with vegetable broth to maintain depth of flavor.

3. Spicy Goulash

  • Add Chili Peppers:
    • Incorporate diced jalapeños or serrano peppers for heat.
  • Use Hot Paprika:
    • Replace sweet paprika with hot paprika to increase spiciness.
  • Include Cayenne Pepper:
    • Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for an extra kick.

4. Goulash with Dumplings

  • Add Dumplings:
    • Prepare soft dumplings and add them to the stew during the last 20 minutes of simmering for a hearty, filling variation.
  • Serve with Bread:
    • Accompany with a side of warm, crusty bread to complement the dumplings.

5. Creamy Goulash

  • Add Cream or Sour Cream:
    • Stir in a cup of heavy cream or sour cream towards the end of cooking for a creamier texture.
  • Incorporate Cheese:
    • Sprinkle shredded cheese into the stew and let it melt for added richness.

Pro Tip: Combine elements from different variations, such as adding mushrooms and extra spices, to create your own signature Old Fashioned Goulash.

Frequently Asked Questions About Old Fashioned Goulash

Savory old fashioned goulash served family-style in a large bowl, perfect for cozy dinners.

1. Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef for Goulash?

Yes! While beef chuck is preferred for its tenderness and flavor when slow-cooked, you can also use stew beef, brisket, or even short ribs. The key is to choose a cut that becomes tender and flavorful through long simmering.

2. How Long Should I Simmer the Goulash?

Simmer the goulash on low heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together. Adding the potatoes later ensures they cook perfectly without becoming mushy.

3. Can I Make Goulash Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! Old Fashioned Goulash often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for longer storage.

4. What Can I Serve with Goulash?

Serve goulash with cooked egg noodles, rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. A side of steamed vegetables or a fresh green salad complements the hearty stew nicely.

5. How Do I Prevent the Goulash from Being Soggy?

Ensure that all vegetables are properly sautéed and not overcooked before adding the liquids. Avoid adding too much broth or water, and let the stew simmer uncovered towards the end to allow excess moisture to evaporate if needed.

6. Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Goulash?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like zucchini, celery, parsnips, or peas to enhance the nutritional profile and add different textures and flavors to the goulash.

Pro Tip: Customize the goulash with your favorite vegetables and adjust seasoning to match your taste preferences for a personalized meal.

Nutritional Snapshot

Understanding the nutritional profile of your Old Fashioned Goulash helps you make informed dietary choices. Here’s a rough overview based on one serving (assuming 6 servings per recipe):

  • Calories: ~450-550 kcal
  • Protein: 30-35 grams
  • Carbohydrates: 35-40 grams
  • Fat: 20-25 grams
  • Fiber: 5-7 grams
  • Sugar: 8-10 grams
  • Sodium: ~800-1000 mg

Note: Nutritional values can vary based on specific ingredients, portion sizes, and any additional add-ins like cheese or extra vegetables. For a lighter version, consider using leaner cuts of beef, reducing the amount of added fat, or increasing the proportion of vegetables.

Serving Suggestions and Presentation Ideas

Elevate your Old Fashioned Goulash from a comforting meal to a visually stunning dish with these serving and presentation ideas:

  1. Classic Platter:
    • Serve goulash over a bed of egg noodles or rice in a large serving bowl or individual plates for a traditional presentation.
  2. Rustic Style:
    • Present the goulash in a cast-iron skillet or a rustic ceramic bowl for a hearty, homey feel.
  3. Garnish with Fresh Herbs:
    • Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or dill over the top for a burst of color and freshness.
  4. Cheese Topping:
    • Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, to enhance the savory flavors.
  5. Accompanied with Sides:
    • Pair with a side of garlic bread, a green salad, or steamed vegetables to create a complete and balanced meal.
  6. Individual Portions:
    • Ladle the goulash into individual ramekins or small bowls for easy serving and an elegant touch.
  7. Add a Dollop of Sour Cream:
    • Top each serving with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added creaminess and tang.
  8. Decorative Serving Tray:
    • Arrange the goulash on a decorative serving tray surrounded by extra vegetables or breadsticks for an impressive buffet-style presentation.

Pro Tip: Use warm plates to keep the goulash hot longer and maintain its comforting temperature throughout the meal.

Conclusion: Embrace the Timeless Comfort of Old Fashioned Goulash

The Old Fashioned Goulash is a beloved classic that embodies the essence of hearty, comforting cuisine. With its tender beef, savory vegetables, and rich tomato-based sauce, this dish offers a satisfying and nourishing meal that brings warmth and joy to any table. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting a gathering, or simply craving a delicious homemade stew, this goulash recipe delivers both in flavor and presentation.

By following this detailed guide, you can effortlessly prepare an Old Fashioned Goulash that is both delicious and visually appealing. Embrace the simplicity of the recipe while allowing room for customization and creativity, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. The combination of slow-simmered beef and vegetables creates a depth of flavor that is both comforting and memorable, ensuring that each bite is as delightful as the last.

So, gather your ingredients, heat up your stove, and embark on the rewarding journey of making your own Old Fashioned Goulash. Revel in the rich aromas, the tender textures, and the harmonious blend of flavors that make this dish a timeless favorite. Celebrate the art of slow cooking and enjoy the hearty satisfaction that comes from a well-prepared bowl of goulash. Here’s to creating delicious memories with every serving of Old Fashioned Goulash!

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