There’s something so comforting about a bowl of **Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash**, isn’t there? The rich, savory broth, tender chunks of beef, and that hint of paprika remind me of chilly days spent wrapped in a cozy blanket, with the aroma of home-cooked meals wafting through the house. I discovered this recipe during one particularly bleak winter when dinner felt more like a chore than a joy. But then, oh my goodness, I threw everything into my slow cooker and was rewarded with a dish that felt like a warm hug. It’s become one of my go-to recipes, and I can’t wait to share it with you!
What I love most about this goulash is how simple it is to make. I mean, who doesn’t appreciate a recipe where you get to dump all the ingredients in one pot and let it do its magic? Plus, it’s a total crowd-pleaser. Whenever I whip this up for friends or family, I can always count on hearing “Mmm, what’s that delicious smell?” before the first spoonful even hits the table. Let’s dive in, shall we?
What’s in Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash?
– Beef Chuck: This cut is perfect for slow cooking! With its rich marbling, it becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender after hours in the cooker.
– Paprika: Preferably Hungarian sweet paprika! It adds depth and warmth, crucial to achieving that authentic goulash flavor. I always keep a jar on hand!
– Onion: A flavor powerhouse! It caramelizes beautifully and brings sweetness to the goulash.
– Garlic: A must for that aromatic punch! I’m pretty sure garlic makes everything better.
– Bell Peppers: Feel free to use any color you like! They add a nice crunch and vibrant color to the dish.
– Diced Tomatoes: These add acidity and richness that balance the flavors.
– Beef Stock: Homemade or store-bought, it makes the goulash wonderfully hearty.
– Tomato Paste: A little goes a long way! It enhances the tomato flavor and thickens the stew.
– Worcestershire Sauce: Just a bit brings an umami kick to the dish.
– Caraway Seeds: Totally optional, but they give a unique flavor reminiscent of rye bread.
– Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.
– Egg Noodles: The perfect base for serving the goulash. They soak up all that delicious sauce!
– Sour Cream and Fresh Parsley: For that final touch! They add creaminess and freshness, elevating the dish.
Is Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash Good for You?
Now, no recipe is perfect, and it’s good to consider the nutritional aspects! On the positive side, this goulash is quite nutritious. The beef chuck gives you a hearty dose of protein and iron, which is especially great for those of us who lead active lifestyles. Bell peppers and onion add vitamins A and C, not to mention a boost in fiber, which is always a plus!
However, it’s key to monitor the salt from the beef stock and Worcestershire sauce, especially if you’re watching your sodium intake. And while sour cream is delicious, if you’re looking to lighten the dish, you could go for a fat-free version or skip it altogether. Moderation is the secret sauce here!
Ingredients List
– 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons paprika (preferably Hungarian sweet paprika)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 bell peppers (red or green), chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
– 1 cup beef stock
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3 cups egg noodles
– Sour cream and fresh parsley for serving (optional)
This recipe serves about 6-8 people, making it ideal for a cozy family dinner or gathering!
How to Make Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash?
1. First things first, gather all your ingredients and grab a large bowl. Season the cubed beef with paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix to get everything nicely coated.
2. Toss the seasoned beef into the slow cooker along with the chopped onion, garlic, and bell peppers.
3. Now add the diced tomatoes, beef stock, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and the optional caraway seeds. Give everything a gentle stir.
4. Cover the slow cooker and let it work its magic on low for 6 to 8 hours or until the beef is fork-tender.
5. About 30 minutes before you’re ready to eat, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions until they’re al dente.
6. When the goulash is ready, taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Serve your delicious goulash over the cooked egg noodles. If you like, add a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for that extra flair!
Serving Suggestions for Your Goulash Feast
Let’s talk a little more about how to make this dish special! You can serve it with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce or a simple green salad for freshness. I love adding some pickles on the side, too – the tangy crunch pairs perfectly with the warm, tender goulash.
Fancy a twist? Try it over rice or mashed potatoes if you feel like mixing things up! And don’t forget, leftovers (if there are any) taste even better the next day!
So, what do you think? I hope you give this Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash a try the next time you need something hearty and comforting. I can’t wait for you to enjoy it as much as I do! Feel free to share your experience or any little twists you tried – I love hearing how you all make these recipes your own!
