Chef John's American Goulash

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Are you a fan of hearty comfort food that warms your soul? Look no further than Chef John's American Goulash!

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Chef John's American Goulash
Prep
15 min
Cook
1 hr 5 min
Total
1 hr 25 min
Servings
12

Method

  1. Gather all the necessary ingredients.

  2. Heat oil in a pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef and onion. Cook and stir until the beef is browned and crumbly, and the onion is translucent (approximately 5 minutes).

  3. Continue cooking and stirring until any liquid is evaporated (around 3-5 minutes).

  4. Add garlic, bay leaves, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, and cayenne. Cook and stir for about 3 minutes until the flavors combine.

  5. Pour in the broth, marinara sauce, and diced tomatoes. Swirl water in the marinara sauce jar and add it to the pot. Stir in soy sauce and bring to a simmer.

  6. Reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for approximately 30 minutes to intensify the flavors.

  7. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring it to a rapid simmer. Stir in the macaroni and cook, stirring occasionally, until it is just barely tender (around 12 minutes). Check for doneness after 10 minutes.

  8. Remove from heat and discard the bay leaves. Stir in the Cheddar and parsley. Cover the pot and let it rest for 5 minutes.

  9. Taste the dish and season it as desired.

  10. If you prefer, you can make your own Italian herb mix using a blend of oregano, thyme, rosemary, sage, parsley, and basil.

  11. Alternatively

About this recipe

Are you a fan of hearty comfort food that warms your soul? Look no further than Chef John's American Goulash! This delicious dish is a perfect blend of flavors and textures that will leave you craving for more. In this article, we will explore the origins of goulash, discuss Chef John's unique twist on the classic recipe, and provide answers to some commonly asked questions about this popular dish.

The Origins of Goulash

Goulash, a traditional Hungarian dish, has a rich history dating back centuries. Originally a staple in Hungarian cuisine, goulash was a popular dish among herdsmen and farmers. It was a simple and hearty meal, perfect for those long days spent tending to livestock or working the fields.

Over time, goulash gained popularity outside of Hungary and found its way into various cuisines around the world. The American version of goulash, also known as American chop suey, is a delightful fusion of Hungarian flavors with a touch of American influence.

Chef John's Unique Twist

Chef John's American Goulash takes the classic recipe and adds his own creative spin. By incorporating fresh herbs and spices, he elevates the flavors to a whole new level. The secret ingredient? A hint of smokiness from paprika, which adds a delightful depth to the dish.

What sets Chef John's goulash apart is the combination of tender chunks of beef, sautéed onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes. The meat is slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in melt-in-your-mouth goodness. And let's not forget about the pasta! Chef John opts for elbow macaroni, which adds a lovely chewiness and allows the sauce to coat each noodle evenly.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use ground beef instead of chunks of beef?

Yes, you can certainly use ground beef if you prefer a different texture. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

. Can I make goulash in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Goulash is a perfect dish to make in a slow cooker. Simply brown the meat and sauté the onions and peppers before transferring everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

. Can I substitute the beef with another protein?

Certainly! If you're not a fan of beef, you can use ground turkey, chicken, or even tofu as a vegetarian option. The flavors will still be delicious.

. How can I make goulash spicier?

If you prefer a spicier goulash, you can add some red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the dish. Adjust the amount according to your desired level of heat.

. Can I freeze goulash?

Absolutely! Goulash freezes well and can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

. Can I use a different type of pasta?

Yes, you can experiment with different types of pasta. Penne or rigatoni would work well in this recipe, as they hold the sauce nicely.

. Can I add other vegetables to the goulash?

Of course! Goulash is a versatile dish, and you can add vegetables such as carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms to enhance the flavors and add some extra nutrition.

. Can I make goulash in advance?

Definitely! Goulash tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together. Just reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

In conclusion, Chef John's American Goulash is a delightful twist on the classic dish. With its tender beef, flavorful spices, and perfectly cooked pasta, it's a meal that will satisfy your cravings for comfort food. Whether you're a goulash enthusiast or trying it for the first time, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. So why not give it a try and experience the deliciousness for yourself?

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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