The Ultimate Guide to Making Old Fashioned Goulash
If you’re craving a hearty and comforting meal, look no further than old fashioned goulash. This classic dish is a staple in many households, known for its rich flavors and simple ingredients. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making old fashioned goulash, from the ingredients to the cooking process. So grab your apron and let’s get started!
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make old fashioned goulash:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Pasta | 1/2 pound |
| Ground beef | 1 1/2 pounds |
| Onion, diced | 1 large |
| Garlic salt | to taste |
| Pepper | to taste |
| Chili powder | to taste |
| Hot sauce | to taste |
| Canned whole tomatoes, undrained | 2 (14.5 ounce) cans |
| Ketchup | 2 tablespoons |
| Tomato juice | as needed |
How to Make Old Fashioned Goulash
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious batch of old fashioned goulash:
- Cook the Pasta: Begin by cooking the pasta until tender, following the instructions on the package.
- Prepare the Beef Mixture: While the pasta is cooking, brown the ground beef and diced onions together in a large skillet or Dutch oven.
- Season to Taste: Once the beef is cooked, season it with garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, and hot sauce to your liking.
- Prepare the Tomato Base: In a large bowl, mash the canned whole tomatoes with a potato masher. Add the mashed tomatoes to the beef mixture, along with the ketchup.
- Combine the Ingredients: Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the beef and tomato mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the goulash and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add more spices or hot sauce according to your preferences.
- Optional: Add Tomato Juice: If you prefer a juicier goulash, you can add tomato juice to the mixture. This helps to enhance the flavors and keep the dish moist. Add tomato juice as desired, but keep in mind that the pasta will absorb liquid over time.
- Serve and Enjoy: Once everything is well combined and heated through, your old fashioned goulash is ready to serve. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal!
Tips and Tricks
- Customize Your Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings in this recipe to suit your taste preferences. Add more or less garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, or hot sauce according to your liking.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Since this dish relies on simple ingredients, using high-quality ground beef and canned tomatoes can make a big difference in the overall flavor.
- Make Ahead and Freeze: Old fashioned goulash is a great dish to make ahead and freeze for later. Simply prepare the recipe as directed, then allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. When ready to eat, simply thaw and reheat for a quick and convenient meal.
- Serve with a Side Salad: For a balanced meal, consider serving your goulash with a side salad or steamed vegetables. This adds some freshness and extra nutrients to the meal.
Conclusion
Old fashioned goulash is a timeless classic that never fails to satisfy. With just a few simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a delicious and comforting meal that the whole family will love. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. So why wait? Give it a try today and enjoy the comforting flavors of old fashioned goulash!