As the evenings turn cooler, there is nothing quite as inviting as the aroma of a slow-simmering stew wafting through the kitchen. This beef goulash is the ultimate comfort food, combining tender meat and hearty potatoes in a rich, spiced tomato sauce that warms you from the inside out. It is the perfect recipe for those days when you want a satisfying, one-pan meal that does most of the work itself.

Recipe Details

  • Yields: 2/3
  • Prep Time: 20 min
  • Cook Time: 90 min
  • Total Time: 110 min

Ingredients

  • 500g beef
  • 300-400g potatoes
  • 1 carrot
  • 1 medium onion
  • 12 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 500ml water
  • 3-4 garlic cloves
  • 3-4 bay leaves
  • Curcuma
  • Paprika
  • Oregano
  • Parsley
  • Caraway
  • Basil (optional)
  • Cilantro (optional)
  • 2-3 champignon mushrooms (optional)

Instructions

  1. Begin by heating a splash of oil in a large frying pan.
  2. Dice the potatoes into small pieces and add them to the pan over medium heat, seasoning them with a little salt as they fry.
  3. While the potatoes are cooking, chop the onion and slice the beef into small, bite-sized cubes, then lightly coat the beef pieces with flour.
  4. After the potatoes have been frying for approximately 15 minutes, stir in the chopped onions and the floured beef. Continue to fry the mixture for another 10 to 15 minutes, or until the meat has browned nicely.
  5. During this time, slice the carrot and mushrooms and finely chop your parsley and cilantro.
  6. Once the beef is thoroughly browned, pour the water into the pan and add all the remaining ingredients, including the seasonings, herbs, salt, and black pepper to your personal preference.
  7. Give everything a good stir, cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, and allow it to stew over a low heat for about 60 to 80 minutes. This slow-cooking period is a great time to relax or tackle a few light chores.
  8. When the time is up, remove the pan from the heat and serve the goulash while it is steaming hot.

Tips for Success

The long stewing time is essential for ensuring the beef becomes perfectly tender, so resist the urge to turn up the heat to move things along. For a complete dining experience, enjoy this hearty meal alongside a cold glass of cider, a beer, or your favorite refreshing beverage.

Gather your family around the table and enjoy a bowl of this rustic, flavorful classic tonight.