Lithuanian Goulash
Lithuanian Goulash is a hearty, comforting dish featuring ground meat, tender vegetables, and a creamy sour cream finish. Its robust flavors and simple ingredients make it perfect for family dinners or cold evenings, offering a taste of Lithuanian home cooking with a satisfying, savory profile.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef or turkey in a large skillet or pot and drain any excess fat.
- Add chopped garlic, diced onion, chopped celery, shredded cabbage, water, and cubed potatoes to the meat.
- Season with salt and pepper, then cook until the vegetables are tender and flavors meld, about 30-40 minutes.
- Remove from heat and stir in about 1 cup of sour cream.
- Serve hot, ideally accompanied by salad, rye bread, and butter.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of vinegar or a tablespoon of tomato paste. If you're short on time, pre-chopped frozen vegetables can be a great alternative to fresh ones. You can use ground turkey for a lighter option, or even substitute with other proteins like chicken or pork. This dish is versatile enough to adapt to your pantry staples.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the goulash hot with a dollop of sour cream on top for added creaminess. It pairs beautifully with rye bread, which can be spread with butter for a delightful contrast. A fresh salad, like B. Q. Salad Dressing, on the side adds a refreshing crunch that complements the hearty dish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if it seems too thick. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a covered dish, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lithuanian Goulash contains roughly 235 calories, with 17g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (67% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (54% of the Daily Value), and protein (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1201mg per serving (52% 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 other meats instead of ground beef or turkey?
Absolutely! You can substitute ground pork or chicken for a different flavor profile. If you prefer a vegetarian option, try using lentils or a meat substitute like tempeh or textured vegetable protein, adjusting cooking times as necessary.
What can I do if I don’t have cabbage?
If cabbage isn't available, you can use other leafy greens like kale or Swiss chard. Alternatively, adding more potatoes and celery can help maintain the dish's texture and bulk without compromising the overall flavor.
How do I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes during cooking. You might also stir in a bit of hot sauce or serve it with a spicy condiment on the side to let everyone adjust the heat to their liking.
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).