Introduction
Hey there, fellow food lovers! Ready to turn simple ingredients into a hearty, flavorful Egyptian Beef Goulash that’ll have everyone asking for seconds? This recipe is all about comfort food done right—rich, savory, and surprisingly easy to make. Get ready for a taste of Egypt right in your kitchen!
Why This Works
This Egyptian Beef Goulash is a winner because it’s a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and spicy. The tender beef, slow-cooked to perfection, melts in your mouth. It’s also incredibly adaptable – easily adjusted for spice level and perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Plus, it’s a great way to use up some pantry staples!
Key Ingredients
- 🥩 2 lbs beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 🧅 1 large onion, chopped
- 🧄 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 🍅 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 🌶️ 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (or more, to taste)
- 🥄 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 🌿 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 🌿 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 🌿 ½ teaspoon turmeric
- 🥣 1 cup beef broth
- 🥔 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 🥕 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped
- 🫑 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 🌿 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
1️⃣ Sear the beef: Season the beef cubes generously with salt and pepper. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef in batches and sear until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
2️⃣ Sauté aromatics: Add the onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3️⃣ Bloom spices: Stir in the red pepper flakes, tomato paste, cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
4️⃣ Add the remaining ingredients: Return the beef to the pot. Add the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, potatoes, carrots, and bell pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 2 hours, or until the beef is very tender. Stir occasionally.
5️⃣ Garnish and serve: Stir in the cilantro just before serving. Serve hot with crusty bread or rice.
Handy Tips
- For extra flavor, brown the beef in batches with a little oil for even browning.
- If you prefer a thicker goulash, simmer uncovered for the last 15-20 minutes to reduce the sauce.
- Don’t be afraid to adjust the spices to your liking!
Heat Control
The key is to maintain a gentle simmer. High heat will toughen the beef, while too low a heat will prevent the flavors from properly developing. Once the goulash is simmering, keep the heat low and covered to ensure tender beef and a rich sauce.
Crunch Factor
The potatoes and carrots provide a nice, soft counterpoint to the tender beef. For an added crunch, consider serving the goulash with a side of crispy fried onions or a fresh salad.
Pro Kitchen Tricks
- Use a slow cooker for an even easier method! Just sear the beef and sauté the veggies as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Add a tablespoon of brown sugar for a touch of sweetness.
- A splash of red wine adds depth of flavor.
Storage Tips
Leftover goulash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well – simply portion it into freezer-safe containers for easy reheating later.
Gift Packaging Ideas
This goulash makes a wonderful gift! Package it in a pretty jar or container with a festive ribbon. Include a recipe card so the recipient can enjoy it again and again.
Flavor Variations
🌟 Spicy Goulash: Add a chopped jalapeño or serrano pepper for extra heat.
🌟 Mediterranean Twist: Add ½ cup of chopped Kalamata olives and 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese before serving.
🌟 Hearty Goulash: Add 1 cup of chopped mushrooms and 1 cup of cooked chickpeas for extra protein and heartiness.
🌟 Lemon-Herb Goulash: Stir in 1 tablespoon of lemon zest and 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley at the end of cooking
Troubleshooting
- Tough beef: Ensure you’re using a cut of beef suitable for stewing. If the beef is still tough after 2 hours, continue to simmer until tender.
- Too thin sauce: Simmer uncovered for the last few minutes to thicken the sauce. You can also make a slurry of cornstarch and water to thicken if needed.
- Too bland: Adjust the seasonings to your preference. More cumin, coriander, or red pepper flakes can add extra flavor.
FAQ
- Can I use other vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, eggplant, or turnips to customize the dish.
- Can I use different types of beef? While stew meat is ideal, you can use other cuts of beef, but keep in mind that tougher cuts may require longer cooking times.
- Can I make this in a slow cooker? Yes! Follow the slow cooker instructions described in the “Pro Kitchen Tricks” section.
- What type of bread pairs well with this dish? Crusty bread, pita bread, or even a simple baguette are all great choices.
- How many servings does this recipe make? This recipe makes approximately 6-8 servings.
Conclusion
We hope you enjoy this delicious and comforting Egyptian Beef Goulash! It’s a perfect dish to share with family and friends. Don’t forget to share your creations and tag us on social media! Happy cooking!
Family-Friendly Egyptian Beef Goulash
A hearty and flavorful Egyptian-inspired goulash that combines tender beef with a rich tomato sauce and aromatic spices, perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 2 cups diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 3 cups cooked pasta (or rice)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sautu00e9 until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and diced bell pepper to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3 minutes until the peppers soften.
- Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula, about 7-10 minutes.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, and cinnamon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
- While the goulash simmers, cook the pasta or rice according to package instructions.
- Once the goulash is ready, serve it over the cooked pasta or rice and garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips
- For added flavor, let the goulash simmer longer to deepen the taste.
- Feel free to add vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrition.