Old Fashion Goulash
A hearty, comforting beef goulash with rich spices and tomato flavor, perfect for family dinners or cold evenings, offering a savory, warming experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Flour the beef cuts and brown them in oil.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cover with water.
- Add a pinch of red pepper, chopped onion, allspice, cloves, and a bay leaf.
- Simmer for several hours until the meat is tender.
- Add catsup and gingersnaps.
- Cook for an additional 30 minutes and serve.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the beef in a mixture of butter and oil. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can add a tablespoon of tomato paste before simmering. Additionally, using fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can elevate the dish. If you don’t have catsup, try substituting with tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes for a different taste.
Serving Suggestions
Old Fashion Goulash pairs beautifully with crusty bread or over a bed of egg noodles for a hearty meal. Consider serving it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced dinner. For an additional kick, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley can enhance the presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain moisture. This dish also freezes well; just be sure to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashion Goulash contains roughly 1130 calories, with 25g protein, 266g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (455% of the Daily Value), iron (222% of the Daily Value), and calcium (154% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1011mg per serving (44% 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 different cuts of beef for this goulash?
Yes, while stew meat is ideal for its tenderness, you can substitute with chuck roast or brisket. Just ensure you cut it into small pieces for even cooking. The key is to choose cuts that benefit from slow cooking to achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
How can I adjust the spice level of the goulash?
To adjust the spice level, you can increase or decrease the amount of red pepper according to your taste. For a milder flavor, omit it entirely or use sweet paprika. If you prefer more heat, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes.
What can I do to make this goulash ahead of time?
You can prepare the goulash up to the point of adding catsup and refrigerate it overnight. The flavors will develop even more as it sits. When you're ready to serve, simply reheat on the stove, add the catsup, and proceed with the final cooking for about 30 minutes.
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).