If you’re craving a hearty and comforting meal that’s easy to make, American Goulash might just be the answer. This classic dish has been a staple in American households for generations, offering a perfect blend of savory flavors and wholesome ingredients. But what exactly is American Goulash, and where did it come from?
American Goulash, also known as American Chop Suey or American Slumgullion, is a one-pot dish consisting of ground meat, pasta, tomatoes, and various seasonings. Its origins can be traced back to Hungarian Goulash, but American Goulash has evolved into its own distinct recipe over time.
Ingredients
To make a delicious batch of American Goulash, you’ll need a few key ingredients:
Meat selection: Ground beef is the traditional choice, but you can also use ground turkey, chicken, or even a meat substitute for a vegetarian version.
Vegetables: Onions, bell peppers, and garlic are essential for flavor, while diced tomatoes and tomato sauce provide the base for the sauce.
Seasonings: Common seasonings include paprika, oregano, basil, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather your ingredients and equipment:
Cooking equipment needed: You’ll need a large skillet or Dutch oven to cook the goulash.
Step-by-step instructions: Begin by browning the meat in the skillet, then sauté onions, peppers, and garlic until softened. Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and seasonings, then let the mixture simmer while you cook the pasta separately.
Cooking Process
Once you have all your ingredients prepared, it’s time to start cooking:
Browning the meat: Cook the ground meat in a skillet over medium heat until it’s no longer pink, breaking it up into crumbles as it cooks.
Adding vegetables and seasonings: Sauté onions, bell peppers, and garlic in the same skillet until they’re tender. Then, add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and seasonings to the mixture.
Simmering: Let the goulash simmer for about 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Variations and Customizations
One of the great things about American Goulash is its versatility:
Vegetarian options: Skip the meat altogether and add extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant for a vegetarian version.
Spicing it up: Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. Add more red pepper flakes for extra heat or experiment with different herbs and spices.
Regional adaptations: Every family has its own spin on American Goulash, so feel free to get creative and add your own special touches.
Serving Suggestions
Once your goulash is ready, it’s time to serve it up:
Accompaniments: Serve the goulash hot with a side of crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple green salad.
Presentation tips: Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a pop of color and flavor.
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, here’s how to store them properly:
Proper storage techniques: Allow the goulash to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheating tips: Reheat individual portions in the microwave or warm it up on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.
Nutritional Information
While American Goulash is undoubtedly delicious, it’s also surprisingly nutritious:
Calories and macronutrients: A typical serving of American Goulash contains around 350-400 calories, with a balanced mix of protein, carbohydrates, and fats.
Health benefits: This dish is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants from the vegetables, making it a wholesome and satisfying meal option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long does it take to cook American Goulash?
On average, it takes about 45 minutes to an hour to prepare and cook American Goulash.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, American Goulash freezes well. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container and consume it within 2-3 months for the best quality.
What is the difference between American Goulash and Hungarian Goulash?
While both dishes feature meat and tomatoes, Hungarian Goulash typically includes chunks of meat and is seasoned with paprika and other spices, whereas American Goulash uses ground meat and has a tomato-based sauce.
Can I use different types of pasta?
Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of pasta you prefer, such as elbow macaroni, penne, or rotini.
Is American Goulash suitable for meal prep?
Yes, American Goulash is perfect for meal prep. You can make a big batch ahead of time and portion it out for quick and easy meals throughout the week.
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Perfect American Goulash Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb lean ground beef 90/10
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 celery stick, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tsp fine sea salt, or to taste
- 1 tsp dried oregano leaves
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper, or to taste
- 1/4 tsp granulated sugar, or more to taste
- 28 oz crushed tomatoes
- 2 Tbsp tomato paste
- 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 cups chicken stock
- 1 cup water plus more as needed for cooking
- 2 cups macaroni pasta, 10 oz, or any small pasta you prefer
- 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, freshly grated, plus more to serve
Instructions
- Set a heavy pot or 5 1/2 Qt Dutch oven over medium/high heat and add 1 Tbsp olive oil. Add ground beef to the hot pot and break it up with a spatula for 1 minute.
- Add carrot, onion, celery and garlic and stir until vegetables are softened, 5 minutes. Season with salt, oregano, pepper and sugar and stir to combine.
- Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, chicken stock and water. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to a simmer, cover and cook for 20 minutes.
- Add macaroni and stir to combine. Reduce heat to a simmer, cover and cook 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, especially towards the beginning of cooking pasts so it doesn’t settle and get stuck to the bottom of the pot. Add more hot water 1/4 cup at a time or as needed if the mixture seems dry. It should remain very moist and saucy.
- Stir in parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste if needed. Serve with more parmesan.
Notes
Course: Dinner, Main CourseCuisine: American, Italian
Keyword: American Chop Suey, American goulash, American goulash recipe
Skill Level: Easy
Cost to Make: $$
Calories: 377