One of the greatest joys of autumn is coming home to a house filled with the comforting aroma of a slow-cooked meal. Today, we bring you a recipe for Crockpot Hungarian Goulash that will warm both your home and your heart. This classic dish is rich in flavors and perfect for those chilly nights when you crave something hearty and delicious. Let’s dive into this recipe and learn how to create a pot of tender meat and savory spices that will transport you to Eastern Europe with each bite.
**Crockpot Hungarian Goulash**
**Ingredients:**
– 2 lbs stewing beef, cut into bite-sized chunks
– 2 onions, diced
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 red bell peppers, sliced
– 2 tbsp sweet paprika
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for garnish)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. Begin by seasoning the beef with salt and pepper. This step will enhance the flavors of the meat as it simmers in the crockpot.
2. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the beef until browned on all sides. This will help lock in the juices and caramelize the meat for a richer taste.
3. Transfer the browned beef to your crockpot and add the diced onions, garlic, and sliced red bell peppers on top.
4. Sprinkle the sweet paprika, smoked paprika, and caraway seeds over the ingredients in the crockpot. These spices are the heart of Hungarian goulash and will infuse the dish with their warm and earthy flavors.
5. Pour the diced tomatoes and beef broth over the meat and vegetables. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
6. Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. This slow cooking process will tenderize the beef and allow the flavors to meld together beautifully.
7. Once the goulash is done cooking, give it a gentle stir to mix all the components. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
8. Serve the Crockpot Hungarian Goulash hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley. The creamy sour cream cuts through the richness of the stew, and the parsley adds a pop of freshness to each bite.
The beauty of this Crockpot Hungarian Goulash is that it gets better with time, so don’t hesitate to make a big batch and enjoy the leftovers for a few days. The flavors will continue to develop, making each reheated bowl even more satisfying. Whether you serve it over egg noodles, rice, or with a slice of crusty bread, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. So, embrace the cozy vibes of fall and savor the warmth of a homemade meal that feels like a loving hug on a cold day.
