Goulash Recipe

Goulash, a hearty and flavorful stew with Hungarian origins, has found its way into the hearts and kitchens of the Midwest region of the United States. This comforting dish is packed with tender meat, vegetables, and rich spices, making it a beloved comfort food for chilly Midwestern evenings. Here's a detailed recipe for making goulash at home:

Ingredients:

• 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into cubes 🥩
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 🌿
• 1 onion, chopped 🧅
• 2 cloves garlic, minced 🧄
• 2 tablespoons sweet paprika 🌶️
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika 🌶️
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds 🌿
• 1 bay leaf 🍃
• 2 cups beef broth 🍖
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes 🍅
• 2 cups chopped potatoes 🥔
• 1 cup chopped carrots 🥕
• Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish 🌿

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef stew meat to the pot and cook until it's browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the meat from the pot and set it aside.
3. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Return the browned beef to the pot. Stir in the sweet paprika, smoked paprika, caraway seeds, and bay leaf. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the spices are fragrant.
5. Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes with their juices. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Cover the pot and let the goulash simmer for 1-1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender.
7. Add the chopped potatoes and carrots to the pot. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the sauce has thickened.
8. Season the goulash with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve the goulash hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
10. Enjoy the comforting and soul-warming goodness of homemade goulash, a Midwest favorite! 🥩🍅🥔

Goulash is more than just a stew; it's a taste of tradition and heritage in the Midwest. With its rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and comforting aroma, goulash has earned its place as a beloved comfort food dish that brings families together around the dinner table. Whether enjoyed on a cold winter's night or served up at a summer cookout, goulash is sure to warm both body and soul with every spoonful. 🍲🌟🌾