Hearty Goulash with Dumplings
Ingredients:
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) beef chuck, cut into 5 cm (2-inch) cubes
- 30 ml (2 tbsp) vegetable oil
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 60 g (1/4 cup) Hungarian paprika
- 15 g (1 tbsp) caraway seeds
- 400 g (14 oz) canned tomatoes, crushed
- 1 liter (4 cups) beef broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 red bell peppers, sliced
- 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
Ingredients for Dumplings:
- 250 g (2 cups) all-purpose flour
- 5 g (1 tsp) salt
- 2 large eggs
- 120 ml (1/2 cup) milk
Cooking Time: Total estimated time: 3 hours
Instructions for Goulash
Step 1: Searing the Beef
In a large Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Sear the beef in batches, ensuring that each piece is browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
Step 2: Building the Flavor Base
In the same pot, reduce heat to medium and add the onions. Cook until golden brown, about 10 minutes. Stir in the garlic, Hungarian paprika, and caraway seeds. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Simmering the Goulash
Return the seared beef to the pot, then add crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Stir to combine. Bring to a simmer, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Cook for 1.5 hours or until the beef is tender.
Step 4: Adding Vegetables
Add bell peppers and potatoes to the pot. Continue to simmer, covered, for an additional 30 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well harmonized.
Instructions for Dumplings
Step 1: Preparing the Dumpling Batter
In a mixing bowl, combine all-purpose flour and salt. In another bowl, beat eggs and milk together. Gradually incorporate the wet ingredients into the flour mixture until a sticky dough forms.
Step 2: Cooking the Dumplings
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop small spoonfuls of the dough into the boiling water. Cook the dumplings until they float to the surface, then let them cook for an additional 2 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to the goulash.
Final Steps
Stir the dumplings gently into the goulash to absorb some of the rich sauce. Allow the entire dish to rest for 10 minutes before serving, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Conclusion
Congratulations on crafting a robust, hearty goulash with delicate dumplings. This dish is a celebration of rustic flavors and simple yet satisfying culinary traditions. Whether served during a festive gathering or as a comforting weeknight dinner, this goulash with dumplings is sure to evoke warmth and culinary delight. Experiment with ingredients to create your signature twist and introduce this timeless dish to your loved ones.