When the air gets crisp and the leaves start to turn, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as a warm and comforting bowl of Czech Easy Goulash. This hearty dish is a classic in Czech cuisine, known for its rich flavors and simple preparation. Even if you’ve never tried making goulash before, this recipe is perfect for beginners and experienced cooks alike. Let’s dive in to create a delicious meal that will warm both body and soul.
**Czech Easy Goulash**
**Ingredients:**
– 1 ½ lbs beef chuck, cut into bite-sized cubes
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 tbsp sweet paprika
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup crushed tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 tbsp flour
– Cooked egg noodles or mashed potatoes, for serving
– Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. **Brown the Beef:** Heat the vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pot, and brown them on all sides. This step helps develop deep, rich flavors in the goulash.
2. **Sauté the Aromatics:** Once all the beef is browned, reduce the heat to medium and add the chopped onions to the pot. Sauté for a few minutes until they start to soften and turn translucent. Add the minced garlic and chopped red bell pepper, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3. **Add the Tomato Paste and Spices:** Push the onions and peppers to the side of the pot, creating a space in the center. Add the tomato paste, sweet paprika, and caraway seeds to the center, and cook for about a minute until the tomato paste darkens slightly. This will intensify the flavors of the spices.
4. **Combine and Simmer:** Stir everything together in the pot, coating the beef and vegetables with the tomato paste mixture. Pour in the beef broth and crushed tomatoes, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the pot with a lid slightly ajar. Let the goulash simmer gently for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded.
5. **Thicken the Sauce:** In a small bowl, mix the flour with a bit of water to create a slurry. Slowly pour this mixture into the pot while stirring constantly. This will help thicken the goulash and give it a richer consistency.
6. **Serve and Enjoy:** Once the goulash has thickened to your liking, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the Czech Easy Goulash hot over cooked egg noodles or mashed potatoes. Garnish with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Warm, comforting, and full of robust flavors, this Czech Easy Goulash is sure to become a favorite in your home. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner party or simply craving a satisfying meal on a chilly evening, this recipe is a perfect choice. Embrace the heartwarming essence of Czech cuisine with each spoonful of this delicious goulash.
