Beef Goulash
Beef Goulash is a hearty, comforting stew featuring tender chunks of beef simmered in a savory onion and tomato-flavored broth. Perfect for cold evenings, it offers rich flavors with a simple preparation, making it ideal for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven or heavy saucepan, heat the shortening and brown the beef cubes well.
- Stir in the Lipton onion soup mix, tomato paste, and water.
- Simmer, covered, for 1 1/2 hours or until the meat is tender, adding more water if needed.
- Serve over noodles.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce to the mixture. If you don't have Lipton onion soup mix, you can create a substitute using dried onion flakes, salt, and a bit of beef bouillon. For a thicker sauce, you can mix a bit of cornstarch with cold water and stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
This goulash is delicious served over egg noodles or rice. A side of crusty bread, like Lettie'S French Bread, complements the dish perfectly, allowing you to soak up the savory sauce. You can also serve it with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover beef goulash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beef Goulash contains roughly 147 calories, with 8g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of protein (16% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 674mg per serving (29% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef for this goulash?
Yes, you can use other cuts such as brisket or round steak, but chuck is ideal for its tenderness and flavor when slow-cooked. Just ensure the meat is cut into similar-sized cubes for even cooking.
Is it possible to make this goulash in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! You can brown the beef in a pan first, then transfer all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender.
What can I serve with beef goulash?
This hearty dish pairs well with egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes. You might also enjoy it with steamed vegetables or a simple side salad for a complete meal. Consider a slice of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).