Olivia Carter
If you’re a fan of hearty and delicious meals, then you’re probably familiar with goulash. This traditional Hungarian dish is a staple in many households, and for good reason. It’s packed with tender pieces of beef, flavorful onions and garlic, and a rich and tangy tomato sauce. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make in a slow cooker.
Using a slow cooker allows the flavors of the beef and other ingredients to meld together over a long period of time, resulting in a melt-in-your-mouth goulash that will leave you craving for more. Plus, the slow cooker does all the work for you, so you can just set it and forget it.
This recipe for the best beef goulash slow cooker is perfect for those busy weekdays when you don’t have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. Simply prep the ingredients in the morning, let the slow cooker do its magic all day, and come home to a house filled with the comforting aroma of a delicious goulash.
Ingredients
When it comes to making the best beef goulash in a slow cooker, it’s all about the ingredients you use. Here are the key components that will give your goulash the ultimate flavor and tenderness:
1. Beef:
Start with high-quality beef that is suitable for slow cooking. Choose cuts like chuck roast or beef stew meat, as they tend to become tender and flavorful after long hours of cooking. Avoid using lean cuts, as they may dry out during the cooking process.
2. Vegetables:
Add a variety of vegetables to your goulash for added texture and flavor. Some traditional options include onion, garlic, bell peppers, carrots, and potatoes. These vegetables not only enhance the taste but also provide essential nutrients.
3. Spices:
The spice combination is what gives goulash its distinctive taste. Common spices used include paprika, caraway seeds, thyme, bay leaves, and garlic powder. Adjust the amount of spices based on your personal preference, keeping in mind that paprika is the primary flavoring agent in a goulash.
4. Liquid:
A flavorful liquid is crucial for slow cooking the beef and vegetables. Beef broth, red wine, or a combination of both are popular choices. The liquid helps to tenderize the meat and infuse the dish with rich flavors.
5. Tomato Products:
Tomato products, such as tomato paste or canned diced tomatoes, are commonly used in goulash recipes. They add depth and tanginess to the dish, balancing out the richness of the beef and spices.
6. Other Ingredients:
Optional ingredients that can be added to enhance the flavor of your goulash include Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, and a touch of sugar to balance out the acidity. These additions help to create a well-rounded and flavorful dish.
By carefully selecting and combining these quality ingredients, you can create a delicious and hearty beef goulash that will impress your family and friends.
Preparation
Before starting the slow cooking process for the best beef goulash, there are a few important steps to take to ensure a flavorful and tender result. First, gather all the necessary ingredients, including beef stew meat, onions, garlic, paprika, caraway seeds, beef broth, tomatoes, and a variety of vegetables like bell peppers and potatoes.
Start by cutting the beef stew meat into bite-sized pieces and seasoning it with salt and pepper. In a hot skillet, heat some oil and brown the beef on all sides to add depth and richness to the final dish. While the beef is browning, chop the onions, mince the garlic, and prepare the vegetables.
Slow Cooker Method
Using a slow cooker is a great way to make delicious beef goulash with minimal effort. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to develop and the meat to become tender and juicy. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make the best beef goulash using a slow cooker:
1. Prepare the beef: Start by cutting the beef into bite-sized cubes. This will help the meat cook evenly and ensure that every bite is tender and flavorful. Season the beef with salt and pepper for added taste.
2. Sear the beef: In a hot pan, sear the beef cubes on all sides until they are browned. This step helps to lock in the flavor and juices of the meat. Transfer the seared beef into the slow cooker.
3. Prepare the vegetables: Chop onions, bell peppers, and garlic to add flavor to the goulash. Sauté the vegetables in the same pan used to sear the beef until they are softened. Add them to the slow cooker.
4. Add the seasonings and liquids: To enhance the flavor of the goulash, add paprika, caraway seeds, thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth to the slow cooker. Stir everything together to ensure that the seasonings are well distributed.
5. Cook on low heat: Cover the slow cooker and cook the beef goulash on low heat for 6 to 8 hours. This long cooking time allows the flavors to meld together and the beef to become tender and melt-in-your-mouth delicious.
6. Thicken the sauce: If desired, you can thicken the sauce by mixing cornstarch with a little water and adding it to the slow cooker. Stir well and let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
7. Serve and enjoy: Serve the beef goulash hot with your favorite side dishes such as mashed potatoes, rice, or crusty bread. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy the rich and flavorful taste of this slow cooker beef goulash!
Serving and Storing
Once the beef goulash is cooked to perfection in your slow cooker, it’s time to serve and enjoy this delicious dish. You can simply transfer the goulash from the slow cooker to a serving dish and garnish it with some fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, to add a pop of color and freshness. Serve the beef goulash hot alongside some traditional accompaniments like fresh bread or boiled potatoes to soak up the flavorful sauce.
If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The longer the goulash sits, the more the flavors will meld together, resulting in an even tastier meal. When reheating the goulash, you can do so on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, or in the microwave using short intervals to prevent overcooking. Make sure to thoroughly reheat the goulash until it is steaming hot before serving.
Another option for storing leftovers is to freeze them for later use. Simply transfer the cooled goulash into a freezer-safe container or bag, removing any excess air to prevent freezer burn. The frozen goulash can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the goulash in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it using your preferred method. Freezing may slightly affect the texture of the meat, but the flavors will still be delicious.
Tips and Variations
Here are some tips to make the best beef goulash in a slow cooker:
- Use a tougher cut of beef, such as chuck or stew meat, as it will become tender and flavorful during the long cooking process.
- Brown the beef before adding it to the slow cooker. This step adds depth of flavor to the dish.
- Don’t skip the step of sautéing the onions and garlic. This helps to caramelize the onions and enhances the overall taste of the goulash.
- Add a variety of vegetables to the goulash, such as bell peppers, carrots, or potatoes, to make it more nutritious and flavorful.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste. You can add more paprika for a spicier flavor, or add herbs such as thyme or bay leaves for additional depth.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix some flour with water to create a slurry and add it to the slow cooker towards the end of the cooking time.
Now you have the basic recipe for the best beef goulash in a slow cooker, but don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own. Here are some variations you can try:
- Swap beef for pork or chicken to create a different flavor profile.
- Add some heat by incorporating chili powder, cayenne pepper, or red pepper flakes.
- Make it a one-pot meal by adding cooked pasta or rice to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices such as rosemary, oregano, or smoked paprika to give it a unique twist.
- Add some tanginess by stirring in a tablespoon or two of vinegar or lemon juice towards the end of the cooking time.
Now you have all the information you need to make the best beef goulash in a slow cooker. Enjoy experimenting and creating delicious variations of this classic dish!
10 Best Beef Goulash Slow Cooker Recipe
Grass Fed Beef Stew Meat Pack
Features
| Is Adult Product | |
| Size | 4 Pack |
Organic Beef Bone Broth - Pack of 12
Features
| Release Date | 2024-09-22T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 32 Fl Oz (Pack of 12) |
Digital Programmable Jumbo Slow Cooker
Features
| Part Number | 0717056132592 |
| Model | MST-900D |
| Color | Stainless Steel/Black |
| Size | 8.5 Quarts |
SENCOR Slow Cooker Model 7200SS
Features
| Part Number | SPR 7200SS |
| Model | SPR 7200SS |
| Color | silver |
| Release Date | 2024-07-18T00:00:01Z |
| Size | 6.3 Quarts |
| Language | French |
44-Piece Airtight Food Storage Set
Features
| Part Number | 2108389 |
| Model | 2108389 |
| Color | Grey, Clear |
| Size | Set of 22 Assorted Containers |
Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Cooker
Features
| Part Number | IP-DUO80 |
| Model | IP-DUO80 |
| Warranty | 1 year manufacturer warranty |
| Color | 0 |
| Is Adult Product | |
| Size | 8 Quarts |
| Edition | Instant Pot |
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