Old Fashioned Goulash
This timeless dish, Old Fashioned Goulash, encapsulates the essence of comfort and culinary tradition. A hearty and soul-warming concoction, this goulash is a symphony of flavors that takes you on a journey through the rich tapestry of Eastern European cuisine. Each bite is a revelation, a harmonious blend of tender beef, perfectly cooked pasta, and a robust tomato-based sauce that captures the rustic charm of a bygone era.
The aroma of simmering spices and slow-cooked meat fills the air as you delve into a steaming bowl of Old Fashioned Goulash. The beef, having absorbed the flavors of paprika, caraway seeds, and other aromatic seasonings, becomes fork-tender, offering a meltingly delicious experience with every mouthful. The pasta, lovingly enveloped in the savory tomato sauce, serves as a comforting canvas for the bold flavors that dance upon it.
The allure of Old Fashioned Goulash lies not only in its taste but also in its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia. It harks back to a time when meals were crafted with patience and care, simmering on stovetops to perfection. The rich, red hue of the tomato-based sauce is a visual testament to the depth of flavors infused into every element of the dish. It speaks of family gatherings, cozy kitchens, and the joyous anticipation of a satisfying, homemade meal.
Each spoonful of this goulash is a celebration of simplicity, a reminder that the most profound culinary experiences often arise from humble ingredients and time-honored techniques. The Old Fashioned Goulash is a comforting embrace, a dish that transcends generations, inviting you to partake in the enduring legacy of classic comfort food.
Ingredients:
1/2 lb macaroni
1 1/2 lbs ground beef
1 large onion, diced
Garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, & hot sauce to taste
2 (14.5 oz) cans whole stewed tomatoes, undrained
2 tablespoons ketchup
Tomato juice (as needed)
Instructions:
Cook the Macaroni:
Prepare the macaroni al dente according to the package instructions. This ensures the pasta maintains a bit of firmness, preventing it from becoming too soft when baked with the sauce.
Brown the Beef:
While the macaroni is cooking, place an extra-large skillet or a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and diced onion, cooking them together until the beef is thoroughly browned.
Drain any excess grease from the skillet, then season the beef and onion mixture with garlic salt, pepper, chili powder, and hot sauce according to your taste preferences.
Prepare the Tomato Mixture:
In a large bowl, use a potato masher to crush the whole stewed tomatoes, ensuring to keep the juices for added flavor.
Add the mashed tomatoes and ketchup to the beef mixture, stirring to combine.
Combine and Bake:
Once the macaroni is cooked and drained, add it to the beef and tomato mixture, stirring well to ensure the pasta is evenly coated.
Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning as necessary. If you find the goulash too thick, you can add tomato juice to achieve your desired consistency.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F until it becomes bubbly and hot, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your Old Fashioned Goulash hot, accompanied by crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Consider adding grated cheese on top before baking for an extra layer of flavor.
Tips:
Leftovers: This dish reheats well, making it perfect for leftovers. If the goulash thickens too much in the fridge, simply stir in a little tomato juice when reheating to bring back its juicy consistency.
Customization: Feel free to customize the spices according to your preferences. Adding paprika or a dash of Worcestershire sauce can provide additional depth of flavor.
Old Fashioned Goulash is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting reminder of family gatherings and simpler times. Whether you’re introducing it to your family for the first time or continuing a long-standing tradition, this dish is sure to warm hearts and satisfy appetites
