Description
This Delicious Goulash with Beef and Potato Purée is a hearty, comforting dish inspired by Hungarian flavors. Tender chunks of beef are slowly simmered in a rich paprika-infused tomato sauce with peppers, onions, and garlic until melt-in-your-mouth soft. Served alongside smooth, buttery potato purée, this dish balances bold savory notes with creamy comfort. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, it’s a soul-warming classic.
Ingredients For Delicious Goulash with Beef and Potato Purée
For the Beef Goulash
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2 tbsp olive oil or butter
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2 lbs (900g) beef chuck or stew meat, cut into cubes
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2 large onions, finely chopped
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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2 red bell peppers, sliced
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2 tbsp sweet Hungarian paprika
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1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
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1 tsp caraway seeds (optional, authentic touch)
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2 tbsp tomato paste
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2 cups beef broth
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1 can (14 oz / 400g) diced tomatoes
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2 bay leaves
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For the Potato Purée
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2 lbs (900g) potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
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4 tbsp butter
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½ cup warm milk (or cream for richer flavor)
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Salt and white pepper, to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Beef Goulash
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Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
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Brown the beef cubes in batches, searing on all sides. Remove and set aside.
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In the same pot, sauté onions until golden. Add garlic, bell peppers, and cook for 2–3 minutes.
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Stir in tomato paste, paprika, and caraway seeds. Let it toast for 1 minute for maximum flavor.
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Return beef to the pot, add diced tomatoes, beef broth, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
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Bring to a boil, then reduce to low. Cover and simmer for 1½–2 hours, until beef is tender and sauce is rich.
Step 2: Prepare Potato Purée
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Boil potatoes in salted water until soft (about 15–20 minutes).
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Drain and mash until smooth.
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Add butter and gradually mix in warm milk until creamy. Season with salt and white pepper.
Step 3: Assemble & Serve
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Spoon potato purée onto plates.
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Ladle generous portions of beef goulash on top or alongside.
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Garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
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For a thicker sauce, simmer uncovered for the last 20 minutes.
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Use Hungarian sweet paprika for authentic flavor.
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Can be made ahead; goulash tastes even better the next day.
Tips
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For extra richness, stir in a spoonful of sour cream before serving.
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Swap beef with lamb or pork for variations.
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Add carrots or mushrooms for a veggie boost.
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Serve with crusty bread to mop up the sauce.
Servings
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Serves: 6 portions
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Cook Time: 2 hours
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Total Time: 2 hrs 20 minutes
Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)
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Calories: 480
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Protein: 34g
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Fat: 22g
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Carbohydrates: 38g
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Fiber: 5g
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Sodium: 780mg
Health Benefits
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High in protein → builds and repairs muscles.
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Rich in iron & zinc → boosts immunity and energy.
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Potatoes provide potassium → supports heart health.
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Onions & garlic → natural anti-inflammatory properties.
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Comfort food that is both hearty and nourishing.
Q&A
Q1: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef and onions first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Q3: Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes, swap butter with olive oil and use plant-based milk for the purée.
Q4: What can I serve alongside goulash?
Crusty bread, pickled cucumbers, or a simple green salad pair beautifully.
Q5: How to make it spicier?
Add chili flakes or hot paprika for a fiery twist.