Best Goulash

Goulash is a flavorful Hungarian stew traditionally made with meat, paprika, and various vegetables. Here’s a classic recipe for a delicious beef goulash:Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef chuck or stewing beef, cut into cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 onions, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons sweet paprika
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a deeper flavor)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
• 2 bell peppers, diced (red, green, or yellow)
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional, for added flavor)
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
• Cooked pasta, rice, or crusty bread for serving

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the cubed beef to the pot and brown it on all sides. Work in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pot. Remove the browned beef from the pot and set it aside.
3. In the same pot, add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn translucent. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
4. Return the browned beef to the pot with the onions and garlic.
5. Sprinkle sweet paprika and, if using, smoked paprika over the meat and stir to coat evenly.
6. Add the tomato paste and stir for about a minute to cook off the raw flavor.
7. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes (with their juices) into the pot. Stir well to combine.
8. Add the diced bell peppers, sliced carrots, bay leaves, salt, pepper, and caraway seeds (if using). Stir everything together.
9. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally.
10. Once done, taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove the bay leaves.
11. Serve the goulash hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired. It pairs well with cooked pasta, rice, or crusty bread.

This hearty and comforting beef goulash is rich in flavors and perfect for a satisfying meal, especially on colder days!