What is Goulash?
Goulash is a Hungarian dish somewhat in between a soup and a stew. Old fashioned goulash was made with lean beef meat and whatever vegetables happened to be on hand, but the recipe has since then been modified to be richer and heartier with variations made with chicken, tofu, and shrimp.
The dish's origins can be traced back to Hungarian herdsmen who traveled for months at a time with their cattle and cooked for themselves using non-perishable supplies. Whenever cattle died or were slaughtered, the herdsmen would make a feast of browned beef with onions, black pepper, and water. And this humble dish evolved into the goulash we know today by the end of the 18th century when ground chili became a core ingredient, gaining worldwide popularity by the early 20th century.
What Cut Of Beef Is Best For Goulash?
Most chefs consider a lean beef chuck the best choice for this hearty Hungarian stew, but top round isn't that far behind. Other inexpensive but flavorful cuts are also ideal, and it is recommended to buy roast instead of cut-up meat and cut it yourself for better, leaner pieces. You can also add beef heart, beef shank, etc., to your goulash for a more unique and rich flavor profile.
What to Serve with Goulash?
Serve this easy goulash with sides like garlic bread, rye bread, French baguette, bread rolls, breadsticks, fruit salad, roasted vegetables, steamed rice, gnocchi, buttered egg noodles, dumplings, savory scones, cucumber salad, etc. You can also pair your goulash with tomato soup, mashed potatoes, cornbread muffins, rice pilaf, and cheddar cheese biscuits.
Here are some our delicious recipes that you can serve with Goulash:
What Is The Difference Between Beef Goulash And Hungarian Goulash?
Hungarian goulash is a traditional Hungarian dish made with tender beef, onions, carrots, potatoes, tomatoes, etc., and seasoned with loads of paprika. It is the national dish of Hungary and looks like a cross between a beef stew and soup. In America, what is often called beef goulash is a tomato, beef, and macaroni dish also known as American Chop Suey.
