Shaker Beef Goulash
A hearty, savory beef goulash with tender vegetables and rich flavors, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings requiring a satisfying, flavorful dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a plastic bag, combine flour, salt, pepper, and marjoram.
- Shake to mix well.
- In a large skillet, add 2 tablespoons of oil and brown the seasoned beef pieces.
- Add onions, 1 cup of water, and apple juice to the skillet.
- Cover and simmer for 1 1/4 hours until the beef is tender.
- Add carrots, snipped parsley, salt, and thyme to the skillet.
- Simmer uncovered for 30 minutes.
- Mix 1/2 cup water with 3 tablespoons of flour until smooth.
- Stir the flour mixture into the stew.
- Cook and stir until the mixture is bubbly and thickened.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the skillet. You can substitute apple juice with white wine or chicken broth if preferred. If you like a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. To enhance the dish, serve with crusty bread or over egg noodles, which will soak up the delicious sauce.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Shaker Beef Goulash with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce. For a complete meal, consider a side of steamed green beans or a light salad. This dish is a comforting option for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the goulash to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain consistency. Alternatively, you can microwave it, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shaker Beef Goulash contains roughly 1392 calories, with 45g protein, 260g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (383% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (270% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1005mg 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 a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute beef with pork or chicken, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Chicken will cook faster, while pork may require similar cooking time to beef. Just ensure that any meat you use is tender and flavorful for the best results.
How can I thicken the sauce without flour?
If you prefer not to use flour, try adding pureed vegetables or a cornstarch slurry made with equal parts cornstarch and cold water. Stir it into the goulash during the last few minutes of cooking until the sauce thickens to your liking.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, the flavors often deepen when the goulash sits. Prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat on the stovetop before serving. This makes it a great option for meal prep or entertaining.
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).