Mary'S Goulash
Mary's Goulash is a hearty, savory dish featuring tender beef, onions, and paprika, simmered to develop rich flavors. This comforting meal is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, served over rice, noodles, or biscuits for a satisfying and flavorful experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the beef into bite-sized cubes.
- Use a large iron frypan and melt the oleo, then add the beef, chopped onions, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Brown the mixture until dark brown, stirring often.
- When the meat is browned on all sides, add water and simmer covered for about 35 minutes.
- Dissolve the cornstarch in milk and add to the mixture.
- Let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes.
- Serve over rice, noodles, or hot biscuits.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider searing the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. You can substitute the oleo with butter or olive oil if desired. Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or a bay leaf can enhance the taste. If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix in a bit more cornstarch with water before adding it to the pot.
Serving Suggestions
This goulash pairs beautifully over rice or noodles, making it a comforting meal. For a complete dinner, serve it with crusty bread or hot biscuits on the side. A simple green salad or steamed vegetables can complement the rich flavors. You might also enjoy it alongside a bowl of Chowder for a varied meal experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the goulash has thickened. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mary'S Goulash contains roughly 553 calories, with 28g protein, 102g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (225% of the Daily Value), and iron (213% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1880mg per serving (82% 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 like brisket or sirloin, but be mindful that cooking times may vary depending on tenderness. Chuck or round steak is preferred for its flavor and texture, ideal for slow cooking.
Can I make this goulash in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After browning the meat and onions, transfer everything to a slow cooker and add water. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully and makes for tender meat.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply replace the cornstarch with a gluten-free thickener like arrowroot or tapioca starch. Ensure that any additional seasonings or sauces you use are also gluten-free to maintain the integrity of the dish.
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).