Hungarian Goulash is a celebrated dish that transcends borders, known for its rich flavors and comforting ingredients. With a history that dates back centuries, this hearty stew combines tender meat and vegetables, all enveloped in a luscious broth seasoned with paprika, a spice celebrated for its vibrant color and unique taste. In this fusion version, we’ll incorporate a few Zimbabwean elements to create a delightful twist that showcases the beautiful culinary heritage of both cultures. Let’s embark on a culinary journey that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or a potential crowd-pleasing feature on Zimbo Menu, Zimbabwe’s local food marketplace.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Start with Searing the Beef:
Heat the olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Work in batches, searing the beef on all sides until they’re browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the beef and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics:
In the same pot, add the onions and garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This step builds a strong flavor base for your Hearty Hungarian Goulash.
- Season It Up:
Stir in the paprika, caraway seeds, and thyme. Let the spices toast for about 30 seconds before adding the tomato paste, mixing well to incorporate the flavors.
- Combine Ingredients:
Add the seared beef back into the pot along with the beef broth, carrots, potatoes, green bell pepper, and canned tomatoes. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
- Simmer to Perfection:
Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally, allowing the stew to thicken and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Finishing Touch:
Once the beef is tender and the sauce is thick, taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove from heat and let it rest for 10 minutes.
- Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the hearty goulash into bowls, garnishing with fresh parsley. Enjoy it with crusty bread or traditional dumplings. This dish not only warms the heart but also ignites the soul.
Cooking Tips
- For an extra depth of flavor, add a splash of red wine to the simmering pot.
- If available, consider adding typical Zimbabwean ingredients like roasted butternut squash to enhance the dish’s sweetness.
- Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your palate, layering in some chili flakes if you crave heat.
This Hearty Hungarian Goulash is not just a meal—it’s a hearty feast meant for sharing with friends and family. Imagine serving it at gatherings, or preparing larger batches to sell via Zimbo Menu, a thriving platform for local culinary creativity. With the right dishes, you can turn your passion for cooking into delightful offerings for others.
Why not explore this and other recipes? Download the Zimbo Menu apps to see how they align with your culinary interests—whether for personal enjoyment or as a budding business on Zimbabwe’s premier food marketplace.
For additional resources on cooking techniques and inspired dishes, check sites like The Spruce Eats for more variations and information on Hearty Hungarian Goulash.
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