Southern Goulash

Introduction

Southern Goulash is a hearty and flavorful dish that has its roots in southern cuisine. This traditional comfort food is a staple in many households, and for good reason. With its combination of tender meat, savory spices, and rich tomato sauce, Southern Goulash is a dish that warms both the body and the soul. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or enjoying a cozy meal at home, Southern Goulash is sure to satisfy your cravings for a delicious and filling meal.

Ingredients

To make Southern Goulash, you will need the following ingredients:

1. 2 pounds of beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces

2. 1 large onion, diced

3. 2 cloves of garlic, minced

4. 2 bell peppers, diced

5. 2 cans of diced tomatoes

6. 2 tablespoons of tomato paste

7. 2 cups of beef broth

8. 2 teaspoons of paprika

9. 1 teaspoon of dried oregano

10. 1 teaspoon of dried thyme

11. Salt and pepper to taste

Steps

To prepare Southern Goulash, follow these steps:

1. Sear the meat

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meat from the pot and set it aside.

2. Sauté the vegetables

In the same pot, add the diced onion, minced garlic, and diced bell peppers. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.

3. Add the tomatoes and tomato paste

Add the diced tomatoes and tomato paste to the pot, stirring well to combine. Cook for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

4. Return the meat to the pot

Return the seared meat to the pot and pour in the beef broth. Add the paprika, dried oregano, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

5. Simmer and cook

Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow the goulash to simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together.

6. Serve and enjoy

Once the goulash is cooked to perfection, serve it hot with your choice of side dishes, such as rice or mashed potatoes. Enjoy the comforting flavors of Southern Goulash!

Variations

While the classic Southern Goulash recipe is delicious on its own, you can also experiment with variations to suit your taste preferences. Here are some ideas:

1. Add vegetables

Feel free to add more vegetables to the goulash, such as carrots, celery, or corn. These additions can provide extra flavor and nutrients to the dish.

2. Use different meats

Instead of beef stew meat, you can use other types of meat, such as pork or chicken. Each type of meat will lend its own unique flavor to the goulash.

3. Spice it up

If you prefer a spicier goulash, you can add some chili powder or red pepper flakes to the dish. Adjust the amount of spice according to your heat tolerance.

Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Southern Goulash turns out perfectly:

1. Choose a tender cut of meat: Opt for beef stew meat or any other cut that becomes tender when slow-cooked.

2. Brown the meat: Searing the meat before cooking it with the other ingredients adds extra flavor to the dish.

3. Simmer for longer: Allowing the goulash to simmer for a longer time helps to develop the flavors and ensures that the meat becomes tender.

4. Adjust the seasoning: Taste the goulash as it cooks and adjust the seasoning as needed. Everyone’s taste preferences are different, so feel free to add more spices or salt and pepper to suit your liking.

Conclusion

Southern Goulash is a classic southern dish that is loved for its comforting flavors and hearty ingredients. With its tender meat, savory spices, and rich tomato sauce, it’s no wonder this dish has become a staple in many households. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or simply craving a delicious and filling meal, Southern Goulash is sure to satisfy.

FAQs

1. Can I make Southern Goulash in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Simply follow the steps for searing the meat and sautéing the vegetables in a separate pan, then transfer everything to the slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-6 hours, until the meat is tender.

2. Can I freeze Southern Goulash?

Yes, Southern Goulash freezes well. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bags. Label the containers with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

3. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of canned. Simply dice the equivalent amount of fresh tomatoes and use them in the recipe. Keep in mind that fresh tomatoes may have a slightly different flavor and consistency compared to canned tomatoes.

Southern Goulash

Introduction

Ingredients