Ingredients
Method
Step 1: Prepare the Beef
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. When it's shimmering, add the beef pieces. Pat them dry with a towel before putting them in the pot. This helps achieve that beautiful, golden-brown crust we all love. Sear the beef for about 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides. Then, transfer the beef to a plate and sprinkle it lightly with flour. This will help thicken your stew later.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, toss in the sliced onions. Sauté them until they're translucent, around 5 minutes. Go ahead and add the minced garlic, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Your kitchen will smell fantastic by now. Next, mix in the sliced bell peppers and cook for about 3-4 more minutes, allowing them to soften.
Step 3: Build Flavor
- Stir in the tomato paste and smoked paprika. These ingredients are the backbone of your goulash's flavor. Cook for another minute to release their aromatics before adding the chopped tomatoes. Stir well, then pour in the white wine, scraping any bits that cling to the bottom of the pot. Trust me, those bits are flavor gold.
Step 4: Combine Everything
- Return the seared beef to the pot. Pour in the beef stock and Worcestershire sauce. Give it a good stir. The goal is to blend all those flavors together! Let it come to a gentle boil.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for at least an hour. The longer you let it cook, the more tender that beef becomes. Check occasionally, stirring, and add more stock if it looks too thick or if you're losing too much liquid. It should be a thick, saucy consistency.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- Once the beef is tender, it's time to serve your delicious goulash! Spoon it into bowls and top with a dollop of soured cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for garnish.
Notes
Making beef goulash is straightforward, but here are some handy tips to elevate your dish:
- Use quality beef: Choose chuck or similar cuts. They break down beautifully and infuse the dish with flavor.
- Don’t rush the searing: A good sear on your beef adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to replicate.
- Fresh herbs before serving: Add fresh parsley right before serving for a pop of color and freshness.
- Adjust the spice: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the paprika.
