As the fragrance of sweet paprika dances through the air, my heart warms at the thought of a steaming pot of Hearty Goulash with Vegetables bubbling away on the stove. This beloved Hungarian dish blends tender, seared beef with vibrant capsicum and earthy potatoes, creating a comforting stew that beckons you home. It’s not just about savoring delicious flavors; the quick prep time means it’s perfect for busy weeknights, and its rich, hearty nature makes it a true crowd-pleaser for family and friends. The tantalizing aroma alone is enough to bring everyone to the kitchen table, eager for a taste. Are you ready to dive into this delightful dish? Let’s get cooking!
Why is this goulash so special?
Comforting and Hearty: This Hearty Goulash with Vegetables is a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly nights when you crave something warm and filling.
Rich, Flavorful Base: With a smoky paprika-infused broth, each spoonful offers a robust depth of flavor that transports you to Eastern Europe.
Quick Prep Time: Even on busy nights, you can whip this up in around 30 minutes of prep, making it an excellent go-to for weeknight dinners.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: It’s a perfect family meal, with tender beef and vibrant veggies that appeal to both adults and kids.
Versatile Pairings: Serve it alongside crusty bread or with a side salad for a refreshing balance. For a twist, try it with Turkish Eggs Yogurt to elevate your dining experience!
Hearty Leftovers: This goulash only gets better with time—perfect for meal prep or cozy leftovers later in the week!
Hearty Goulash with Vegetables Ingredients
For the Stew
- Stewing Beef or Chuck Steak (1 kg / 2 lb) – Ideal for tender, melt-in-your-mouth pieces after slow cooking.
- Brown Onions (150 g / 5 oz) – Essential for building a flavorful base; use about 2 onions, diced.
- Sweet Paprika – Infuses a smoky warmth and vibrant color; Hungarian paprika is the best choice.
- Pork Lard (50 g / 2 oz) – Adds rich flavor during searing; can substitute with olive oil for a lighter version.
- Garlic Cloves (12) – Boosts the overall flavor profile; don’t skip on the garlicky goodness!
- Bay Leaves (2) – Provides a subtle herbal aroma during cooking.
- Peppercorns (20 g / 2 tablespoons, optional) – Delivers extra depth to the broth for those who love a richer taste.
For the Vegetables
- Red Capsicum (150 g / 5 oz) – Adds sweetness and color; about 2 peppers, diced.
- Yellow Capsicum (100 g / 3 ½ oz) – Contributes to both sweetness and visual appeal; use 1 diced pepper.
- Carrots (200 g / 7 oz) – Offers hearty crunch and sweetness; chop into chunky pieces.
- All-rounder Potatoes (300 g / 10 ½ oz) – Provides heartiness and helps thicken the stew; cut into 1-inch cubes.
- Tomatoes (150 g / 1 cup) – Thicken the broth while adding freshness; quarter them for best results.
For the Broth
- Beef Broth (1 L / 4 ¼ cups) – Forms the luscious base of the stew; pre-heating ensures consistent cooking.
This Hearty Goulash with Vegetables brings to life the warmth of Eastern European cuisine, turning everyday ingredients into a sumptuous feast!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Hearty Goulash with Vegetables
Step 1: Cook Onions
In a large Dutch oven, heat 50 grams of pork lard over medium heat until melted. Add 150 grams of diced brown onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until they become soft and translucent. Once ready, carefully remove the onions from the pot and set them aside to retain their flavor for the Goulash.
Step 2: Sear Beef
Increase the heat to medium-high in the Dutch oven and let it reheat. Add small batches of 1 kilogram of stewing beef, searing each piece for about 1 minute on each side until nicely browned. This step is crucial for developing rich flavors that you’ll savor in the Hearty Goulash. Do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Return the cooked onions to the Dutch oven with the seared beef. Stir in 2 tablespoons of sweet paprika, 12 diced garlic cloves, 150 grams of diced red capsicum, 100 grams of diced yellow capsicum, and 150 grams of quartered tomatoes. Toss well to combine, letting the flavors meld together for a minute before moving to the next step.
Step 4: Pour in Broth
Carefully pour in 1 liter of warm beef broth, ensuring everything is well-covered. Add 2 bay leaves and, if desired, 20 grams of peppercorns for added depth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing the comforting aromas of the Hearty Goulash to fill your kitchen.
Step 5: Cook (Oven Method)
Transfer the Dutch oven to a preheated oven at 140°C (285°F). Let it cook slowly for 3 hours; for a quicker option, you can increase the temperature to 160-180°C (320-340°F) and cook for around 2 hours. Keep the pot covered to retain moisture and ensure tender beef throughout the cooking process.
Step 6: Add Vegetables
About 30-40 minutes before the cooking time ends, carefully remove the lid and stir in 300 grams of cubed potatoes and 200 grams of chunky carrots. Allow them to soften and integrate into the Hearty Goulash’s rich broth, enhancing the dish’s texture and flavor.
Step 7: Serve
Once done, carefully ladle the Hearty Goulash with Vegetables into bowls. Serve it with crusty bread for dipping or over egg noodles for a blissful meal. This hearty stew is sure to warm your spirits and satisfy your cravings for comfort food!
Tips for the Best Hearty Goulash
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Perfect Searing: Ensure your beef is well-seared in small batches to lock in flavors. Overcrowding the pot can lead to steaming instead of browning.
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Low and Slow: Cooking the goulash at a lower temperature for a longer duration makes the meat more tender. Aim for 140°C (285°F) if you have the time!
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Flavor Infusions: Incorporate the bay leaves and peppercorns early to deepen the spice profile. Remove bay leaves before serving for a clean bite.
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Don’t Rush the Veggies: Add potatoes and carrots only in the final cooking stages so they keep their texture, providing a satisfying crunch in the Hearty Goulash.
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Freshness Counts: Use freshly minced garlic and quality paprika for the best flavor. A good Hungarian paprika makes all the difference!
How to Store and Freeze Hearty Goulash with Vegetables
Fridge: Keep your goulash in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Allow it to cool completely before storing to prevent condensation.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the goulash in meal-sized portions. It will maintain good quality for 3-6 months. Ensure it’s well-wrapped to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat on the stove or in the microwave until piping hot. Stir well before serving, and enjoy your delicious Hearty Goulash with Vegetables!
Make Ahead Options
These Hearty Goulash with Vegetables are perfect for anyone looking to save time in the kitchen! You can prep the vegetables—like dicing the capsicums, chopping the onions, and cubing the potatoes—up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and crunchy. Additionally, you can brown the stewing beef and sauté the onions ahead, then refrigerate them for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your goulash, simply combine everything in your pot, add the warm beef broth, and let it simmer. This way, you’ll have a delicious home-cooked meal with minimal effort on busy weekdays!
What to Serve with Hearty Goulash with Vegetables
As you savor the rich aroma of this delightful stew, consider pairing it with some complementary side dishes and beverages to create a complete and satisfying meal.
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Crusty Bread: A must-have for soaking up the flavorful broth, warm, crusty bread adds a delightful crunch that enhances the goulash experience.
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Egg Noodles: Soft, pillowy egg noodles are a classic companion. They provide a tender contrast that perfectly absorbs the hearty stew’s flavors.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: For an extra hearty touch, creamy mashed potatoes create a comforting base while enriching every bite with their velvety texture.
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Fresh Garden Salad: Add a refreshing crunch with a bright, mixed greens salad topped with a tangy vinaigrette. The acidity helps balance the richness of the goulash.
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Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top enhances the goulash with a cool, creamy element that pairs beautifully with the spices.
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Pickled Vegetables: The tartness of pickled cucumbers or sauerkraut provides a delightful contrast, balancing the warmth of the goulash with a crisp and tangy bite.
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Red Wine: Pair your meal with a glass of full-bodied red wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Malbec. Its fruity notes harmonize beautifully with the beef and paprika flavors.
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Chocolate Cake: For dessert, consider a rich chocolate cake. The sweetness offers a perfect conclusion to your cozy meal, leaving everyone smiling around the table.
Hearty Goulash with Vegetables Variations
Feel free to let your creativity shine by personalizing this hearty dish with delightful twists and substitutions!
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Olive Oil: Use high-quality olive oil instead of pork lard for a lighter flavor while still keeping it rich and satisfying.
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Root Vegetable Medley: Try mixing in parsnips or turnips alongside potatoes for a unique flavor profile that adds depth to the stew.
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Spice it Up: Add a touch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to introduce a warming heat that can elevate the comforting experience of the goulash.
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Herbal Twist: Swap bay leaves for a sprig of fresh thyme or rosemary for an aromatic undertone that pairs beautifully with the hearty beef.
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Creamy Finish: Top off each bowl with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of crumbled feta to add a delightful creaminess that balances the robust flavors.
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Vegetarian Version: Replace the beef with hearty mushrooms or lentils, and use vegetable broth for a deliciously rich plant-based alternative.
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Extra Veggies: Incorporate green beans or peas during the last 15 minutes of cooking for a pop of color and added nutrition, enhancing the goulash’s texture.
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Rich Tomato Base: Consider adding a spoonful of tomato paste along with the beef broth for a deeper, more vibrant base that enhances the overall richness of the stew.
This dish is a wonderful canvas ready for your culinary creativity. And if you’re looking for delicious side options, pairing it with Pan Greek Vegetables or enjoying it with a creamy Fries Tangy Lemon makes for an unforgettable meal!
Hearty Goulash with Vegetables Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best sweet paprika for my goulash?
Absolutely! For the most authentic flavor in your Hearty Goulash with Vegetables, I recommend using Hungarian sweet paprika as it has a rich, smoky flavor that elevates the dish. Look for a bright red color; avoid paprika with dark spots or a dull appearance. If you enjoy a bit of heat, you can mix it with a touch of spicy paprika to create a delightful balance.
What is the best way to store leftover goulash?
Very good question! Allow your Hearty Goulash with Vegetables to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave until it’s piping hot. You might find that the flavors intensify in the fridge, making it even more delicious the next day!
Can I freeze my goulash?
Absolutely! To freeze your Hearty Goulash with Vegetables, ensure it cools completely. Portion it into meal-sized servings and transfer to airtight containers or freezer-safe bags. It can be frozen for 3-6 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the goulash in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it on the stove, stirring well before serving.
What should I do if my goulash turns out too thick?
No worries at all! If your goulash is thicker than you’d like, you can easily adjust it. Simply stir in a bit of warm beef broth or water, a tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Remember to let it simmer for a few minutes after adding to blend the flavors. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a while to thicken up naturally.
Is this dish suitable for all dietary restrictions?
Great question! This Hearty Goulash with Vegetables is quite versatile. For those avoiding beef, feel free to substitute with turkey or a hearty plant-based protein. If you have allergies, be mindful of the ingredients: pork lard can be replaced with olive oil for a dairy-free variant. Always check labels for any hidden allergens. And if you’re cooking for pets, avoid sharing goulash as many of the spices (like garlic and onions) can be harmful to them.
Hearty Goulash with Vegetables for Cozy Comfort Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large Dutch oven, heat 50 grams of pork lard over medium heat until melted. Add diced brown onions and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft and translucent. Remove onions and set aside.
- Increase the heat to medium-high. Add small batches of stewing beef, searing each for about 1 minute on each side until browned.
- Return the cooked onions to the pot with seared beef. Stir in sweet paprika, diced garlic, red capsicum, yellow capsicum, and quartered tomatoes. Toss to combine.
- Pour in warm beef broth, add bay leaves and optional peppercorns. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Transfer the Dutch oven to a preheated oven at 140°C. Cook slowly for 3 hours, or at 160-180°C for 2 hours, keeping the pot covered.
- About 30-40 minutes before cooking ends, add cubed potatoes and carrots. Stir to integrate into the broth.
- Ladle the Hearty Goulash into bowls. Serve with crusty bread or egg noodles.