Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe Paprika Tomato Stew With Emerald Parsley

I always turn to this old fashioned goulash recipe when I need a comforting, vibrant dish on my family’s dinner table. The rich aroma of paprika and tomatoes simmering together fills the kitchen, promising a hearty Paprika Tomato Stew that’s both deeply satisfying and incredibly easy to make. This classic is perfect for busy parents and home cooks looking for delicious, no-fuss meals that still feel special. It’s a time-tested tradition, now perfected for modern kitchens, offering quick prep and big flavor. Expect freezer-friendly convenience and a crowd-pleasing dish that makes healthy eating a joy, even on weeknights.

Ingredient Guide with Flavor & Function

Crafting a delicious old fashioned goulash recipe starts with quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need, with notes to guide your choices for the best flavor and texture:

• Beef Chuck: 2 lbs (900g), cut into 1-inch cubes. This cut provides rich flavor and becomes wonderfully tender with slow simmering.
• Yellow Onions: 2 large (300g), finely chopped. They create a sweet, aromatic base for the stew.
• Bell Peppers: 2 medium (300g) (any color, I often use red for sweetness), diced. They add fresh color, a slight crunch, and vital nutrients.
• Canned Diced Tomatoes: 1 (28 oz / 794g) can, undrained. For tangy acidity and body. (Look for organic, no-sugar-added varieties for a healthier option.)
• Tomato Paste: 2 Tbsp (30g). Deepens the tomato flavor significantly.
• Sweet Hungarian Paprika: 3 Tbsp (15g). This is the heart of your Paprika Tomato Stew, providing its signature warm, earthy flavor and beautiful color. (Don’t skimp; fresh ground makes a difference!)
• Beef Broth: 4 cups (960ml), low sodium. Provides the simmering liquid and rich umami. (Or use water if that’s what’s on hand, adjusting seasoning.)
• Garlic: 4 cloves, minced. Adds a pungent depth.
• Olive Oil: 2 Tbsp (30ml). For browning and sautéing.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste. Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
• Fresh Emerald Parsley: ¼ cup (10g), chopped, for garnish. Brightens the dish with fresh, herbaceous notes.
• Optional – Flour or Cornstarch: 1 Tbsp (8g), if you prefer a thicker stew.

Cooking Instructions Made Simple

Making this old fashioned goulash recipe is straightforward, yielding delicious results with minimal fuss. Follow these steps for a perfect Paprika Tomato Stew every time, finishing with a flourish of Emerald Parsley:

1. Brown the Beef (5-7 minutes): Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large (10-inch) Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add beef chuck in a single layer, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Brown the meat on all sides until well-sealed and deeply colored. This crucial step builds rich flavor for your stew. Transfer browned beef to a bowl. If your pot looks dry, splash in a tablespoon of broth before moving to the next step to prevent burning.
2. Sauté Aromatics (5 minutes): Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the same pot. Add chopped yellow onions and diced bell peppers. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until they soften and the onions become translucent.
3. Add Garlic and Paprika (1 minute): Stir in the minced garlic and 3 tablespoons of sweet Hungarian paprika. Cook for just one minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This brief toasting enhances the paprika’s deep, earthy flavor – my family loves how this makes the kitchen smell.
4. Build the Stew Base (1 minute): Pour in ½ cup of the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon to deglaze and release any browned bits. Stir in the tomato paste and canned diced tomatoes with their juices.
5. Simmer the Goulash (45-60 minutes): Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the remaining 3 ½ cups of beef broth, ensuring the meat is mostly submerged. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook until the beef is fork-tender and the sauce has slightly thickened. The liquid should be gently bubbling.
6. Season and Finish: Taste the stew and adjust salt and pepper as needed. For a spicier stew, add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the paprika in step 3. For a lighter version, consider using leaner ground beef or turkey instead of chuck. Just before serving, stir in the fresh Emerald Parsley.

Perfect Moments to Serve Your Old Fashioned Goulash Recipe

This heartwarming old fashioned goulash recipe shines on countless occasions. It’s a reliable choice for busy weeknight family dinners, offering a comforting end to a long day. I often whip up a big batch on Sunday to guarantee a few nights of delicious, easy dinner ideas for my family.

• Occasions: Ideal for cozy Sunday meals, potlucks, and casual gatherings. It even makes a wonderfully comforting lunchbox meal, easily reheated.
• Pairings: Serve this rich Paprika Tomato Stew with warm, crusty bread, fluffy egg noodles, creamy mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad for a balanced, complete meal.
• Make-ahead tips: This old fashioned goulash recipe actually tastes even better the next day! It keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Nutrition & Wellness Spotlight

Our old fashioned goulash recipe isn’t just delicious; it’s a fantastic choice for balanced eating. This hearty, one-pot meal is packed with vegetables and high-quality protein, making it a stellar option for `healthy dinner ideas for busy families`.

• Protein boost: Enjoy high-quality protein from the beef, essential for satiety and muscle health. This makes it one of the best `quick protein meals` you can prepare at home.
• Low-sugar swaps: This stew is naturally low in sugar. For optimal wellness, always choose no-sugar-added canned tomatoes.
• Plant-powered energy: Benefit from the rich array of vitamins and antioxidants found in the tomatoes and bell peppers. It’s also excellent for `easy meal prep for weight loss goals` when paired thoughtfully.

Everyday Benefits Beyond the Plate

Choosing this old fashioned goulash recipe offers more than just a tasty meal; it supports a streamlined, nourishing home life. It’s a cornerstone for `family-friendly` healthy eating.

• Time-saving: Enjoy the convenience of a one-pot meal with minimal cleanup, freeing up your evenings.
• Affordable: Crafted with hearty, budget-friendly ingredients that stretch to feed a crowd without compromising on flavor or nutrition.
• Nourishing: A wholesome and deeply satisfying meal that truly fills you up, providing lasting energy for busy days.

Expert Tips & Adaptations for Your Paprika Tomato Stew

Enhance the depth and tailor this comforting Paprika Tomato Stew to your specific needs with these simple expert tips.

• Techniques for richer flavor: Briefly toast the paprika in the pan before adding liquids; this deepens its flavor significantly. A splash of balsamic vinegar or Worcestershire sauce can add a wonderful complexity to the stew.
• Flavor adjustments: For aromatic depth, add a bay leaf during simmering, remembering to remove it before serving. Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt just before serving for an extra layer of creamy richness.
• Dietary adaptations: For a vegan option, substitute beef with hearty mushrooms and lentils. To make it diabetic-friendly, serve with cauliflower rice instead of traditional noodles. For allergy-conscious cooking, always ensure your beef broth is gluten-free.

Questions Readers Often Ask

Can old fashioned goulash recipe be prepped ahead for busy weeks?

Absolutely, this old fashioned goulash recipe is excellent for meal prep! Cook it completely and store; the flavors truly deepen and become even more robust overnight. It’s a fantastic make-ahead option for `quick meals`.

What are the healthiest substitutes for old fashioned goulash recipe ingredients?

To boost the nutrition and leanness of your old fashioned goulash recipe, you can use leaner ground beef or ground turkey. Adding more vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or spinach can also significantly increase its nutritional value.

How thick should my Paprika Tomato Stew be?

Your Paprika Tomato Stew should be thick enough to lightly coat a spoon, maintaining a stew-like consistency rather than a paste. If it’s too thin, simmer it uncovered for a bit longer; if too thick, simply add a splash more broth.

What’s the best way to store leftover old fashioned goulash recipe?

Store any leftover old fashioned goulash recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze it in individual portions for up to 3 months. I find that letting it cool completely before portioning helps prevent freezer burn.

Can I make this Paprika Tomato Stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Brown the meat first for best flavor, then combine all ingredients in your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the beef is wonderfully tender.

What kind of paprika is best for this old fashioned goulash recipe?

Sweet Hungarian paprika is traditional and highly recommended for this old fashioned goulash recipe, as it provides a rich color and authentic flavor. For a subtle kick, you can add a small pinch of hot paprika.

This old fashioned goulash recipe delivers comforting flavors and easy-to-make satisfaction every single time, perfect for `family dinners` and `healthy eating`. Pin this recipe for your next family dinner, or add it to your weekly meal plan!

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