Crockpot Goulash Recipe

Introduction

Goulash is a classic Hungarian dish that is loved for its rich and hearty flavors. Traditionally, it is a stew made with tender chunks of beef, onions, and paprika, but there are many variations of this dish. In this recipe, we will show you how to make a delicious and easy crockpot goulash that will become a family favorite. The best part is that you can prepare it in the morning and let it simmer all day, leaving you with a flavorful meal that is ready to be served when you come home.

Ingredients

For the goulash:

• 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 onions, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the garnish:

• Sour cream
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Steps

Follow these simple steps to make the perfect crockpot goulash:

Step 1: Sear the beef

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and brown on all sides. This will help seal in the flavors and juices. Transfer the beef to the crockpot.

Step 2: Sauté the onions and garlic

In the same skillet, add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 5 minutes. Add the paprika and caraway seeds and cook for an additional minute.

Step 3: Combine the ingredients

Add the sautéed onions and garlic to the crockpot with the beef. Then, add the diced bell peppers, diced tomatoes, and beef broth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give everything a good stir to combine all the flavors.

Step 4: Cook on low heat

Cover the crockpot and cook on low heat for 8-10 hours or on high heat for 4-6 hours. The longer it cooks, the more tender and flavorful the meat will be. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Serve and garnish

Once the goulash is done cooking, it’s time to serve and enjoy. Ladle the goulash into bowls and garnish with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread or noodles for a complete and satisfying meal.

Variations

While this recipe is a classic version of crockpot goulash, feel free to add your own twist to it. Here are a few variations you can try:

1. Vegetarian Goulash

Replace the beef stew meat with a variety of vegetables such as mushrooms, potatoes, carrots, and zucchini. You can also add some vegetarian protein options like tofu or tempeh for added texture.

2. Spicy Goulash

If you like a bit of heat, add some chopped chili peppers or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the goulash. This will give it a spicy kick that will warm you up on a cold day.

3. Smoked Goulash

Add a smoky flavor to your goulash by using smoked paprika instead of regular paprika. This will give it a unique and delicious taste that is sure to impress.

Tips

Here are a few tips to ensure your crockpot goulash turns out perfect every time:

• For the best flavor, brown the beef before adding it to the crockpot. This will enhance the richness of the dish.
• If you’re short on time, you can skip the step of sautéing the onions and garlic. Simply add them to the crockpot raw and let the slow cooking process bring out their flavors.
• Feel free to adjust the amount of paprika and spices according to your taste preferences. Add more if you like it spicier or reduce the amount for a milder flavor.
• If the goulash is too thin, you can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water and adding it to the crockpot. Let it cook for an additional 30 minutes until the sauce thickens.

Conclusion

Crockpot goulash is a comforting and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a tender and delicious meal. With its rich combination of beef, onions, paprika, and bell peppers, this goulash is sure to become a favorite in your household. So dust off your crockpot and give this recipe a try!

FAQs

Q: Can I use a different type of meat?

A: Yes, you can use other meats such as pork or lamb instead of beef. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different meats require different cooking times to become tender.

Q: Can I freeze the leftovers?

A: Absolutely! This goulash freezes well, so you can make a big batch and save some for later. Just transfer the cooled leftovers to airtight containers or freezer bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Q: What can I serve with goulash?

A: Goulash is traditionally served with crusty bread or egg noodles. You can also serve it with rice, mashed potatoes, or even polenta for a heartier meal.

Q: Can I make this recipe on the stovetop?

A: Yes, you can adapt this recipe for stovetop cooking. Simply follow the same steps but use a large pot instead of a crockpot. Cook over low heat for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender.

Enjoy your homemade crockpot goulash and savor the delicious flavors of this classic Hungarian dish!