As I stirred the pot, the savory aroma of warming spices enveloped my kitchen, whisking me away to the vibrant streets of Egypt. This Egyptian Beef Goulash isn’t just food; it’s a journey into a realm of comfort and heartiness that can transform any weeknight into a special occasion. The beauty of this one-pot dish lies not only in its tender, flavorful beef and colorful vegetables but also in its straightforward preparation—a perfect choice for busy cooks who still want to create something magical. Ideal for cozy dinners with loved ones, this recipe brings smiles around the table, offering both nourishment and delight. So, are you ready to discover how simple it is to whip up this comforting masterpiece?
Why is Egyptian Beef Goulash so beloved?
Unmatched Comfort: This dish embodies everything you love about comfort food—rich, hearty, and downright satisfying.
One-Pot Wonder: With everything simmering in just one pot, clean-up is a breeze, leaving you more time to relax.
Vibrant Flavors: The delightful blend of spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon provide an exciting depth that will invigorate your taste buds.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to adjust vegetables as you please or even swap beef for lamb, giving a twist to this classic.
Perfect Social Dish: Whether it’s an intimate family gathering or a special occasion, this Egyptian Beef Goulash is sure to impress!
With its ease of preparation, you might also want to check out some of my other beef favorites, like Sticky Beef Noodles or Creamy Beef and Shells, to keep your dinner rotation exciting!
Egyptian Beef Goulash Ingredients
• Here’s what you’ll need to create this savory, comforting dish!
For the Goulash
- Beef Chuck – Tender cuts are essential for a rich goulash; they become fork-tender during cooking.
- Olive Oil – Aids in browning the beef and sautéing vegetables, adding a lovely richness.
- Onions – Finely chopped to serve as an aromatic base flavor that enhances the dish.
- Garlic – Minced for quick integration, it enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Tomato Paste – Adds umami and depth; you can swap for tomato sauce if necessary.
- Ground Cumin – Essential for a traditional flavor, it adds warm, earthy notes.
- Ground Coriander – Complements cumin with its refreshing citrus undertones.
- Ground Cinnamon – Introduces subtle warmth; it enhances the overall spice blend.
- Paprika – Gives the goulash a beautiful color and mild heat; choose sweet or smoked for a kick.
- Black Pepper – Adds bite to your dish; feel free to adjust according to your spice preference.
- Salt – Essential for flavor enhancement; added to taste.
- Beef Broth – Forms the savory base; both homemade and store-bought options work well.
- Diced Tomatoes – Provides moisture and acidity; can use canned or fresh tomatoes.
- Green Bell Pepper – Adds a fresh crunch; feel free to substitute with other colors of bell pepper.
- Carrots – Adds sweetness and color; cut into uniform slices for even cooking.
- Fresh Parsley – Garnishes the dish, adding a burst of freshness just before serving.
Gather these ingredients to fill your kitchen with the tantalizing aroma of Egyptian Beef Goulash, a dish designed to warm your heart and satisfy your soul!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Egyptian Beef Goulash
Step 1: Heat the Oil
Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to shimmer, which indicates it’s hot enough for cooking. This step is crucial as it will help achieve a beautiful brown color on the beef, enhancing the flavors of your Egyptian Beef Goulash.
Step 2: Brown the Beef
Season 2 pounds of beef chuck with salt and black pepper, then add it to the pot. Brown the beef on all sides for about 5 to 7 minutes, until it develops a deep, rich color. Don’t overcrowd the pot, as this can lead to steaming instead of browning. Once done, remove the beef and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add a medium diced onion and sauté for about 3 to 5 minutes until translucent and softened. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Next, add 2 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional minute, allowing the garlic’s fragrant aroma to meld with the onions, setting a flavorful base for your Egyptian Beef Goulash.
Step 4: Mix in the Spices
Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of ground coriander, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of paprika. Cook this mixture for 1 to 2 minutes, stirring continuously to toast the spices. This step intensifies their flavors, making the goulash fragrant and wonderfully savory.
Step 5: Return the Beef
Bring back the browned beef chuck into the pot, ensuring it is well-coated in the aromatic spice mixture. This connection allows the beef to absorb all the delicious flavors as it simmers. It’s time to add depth to the dish, elevating your Egyptian Beef Goulash to new culinary heights.
Step 6: Add Liquids and Simmer
Pour in 4 cups of beef broth and one 14-ounce can of diced tomatoes. Stir well, bringing the mixture to a vigorous boil. Once it reaches that point, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 45 minutes. The beef will become tender and infused with the marvelous spices during this time.
Step 7: Incorporate the Vegetables
After 45 minutes of simmering, add 1 diced green bell pepper and 2 sliced carrots to the pot. Stir gently to combine as the vegetables bounce in with the beef. Allow this to simmer uncovered for an additional 15 minutes or until the vegetables are vibrant and tender, enriching your Egyptian Beef Goulash with texture and color.
Step 8: Adjust the Seasoning
Taste the goulash and adjust the seasoning with more salt and black pepper as needed. This critical step ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor. The spices and savory broth should harmonize beautifully, making your Egyptian Beef Goulash truly unforgettable.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Finally, remove the pot from heat and garnish your hearty goulash with chopped fresh parsley. This last touch not only adds a pop of color but also a fresh flavor note. Serve the Egyptian Beef Goulash warm, inviting everyone to gather around and enjoy this comforting dish together.
Egyptian Beef Goulash Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to play with flavors and ingredients to make this Egyptian Beef Goulash your own masterpiece!
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Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or use hot paprika for an extra kick that’ll wake up your taste buds.
Spice lovers will adore this bold addition that brings a delightful heat without overpowering the dish. -
Lamb Alternative: Swap beef for lamb for a richer flavor profile that elevates the goulash to new culinary heights.
Lamb offers a distinctive taste that pairs beautifully with the robust spices, creating an irresistible dish to impress family and friends. -
Vegetarian Version: Use jackfruit or mushrooms in place of beef for an intriguing vegetarian twist that retains heartiness.
These substitutes soak up the flavors beautifully, allowing you to indulge without the meat while keeping it comforting. -
Extra Veggies: Add potatoes or zucchini for additional texture and nutrition, enriching both the heartiness and heartwarming quality.
This adjustment not only increases the veggie quotient but also creates a standalone meal! -
Herb Boost: Toss in some fresh thyme or oregano for an aromatic lift that complements the existing flavors dramatically.
Herbs can transform the goulash, providing freshness that balances the rich spices remarkably. -
Creamy Variation: Stir in a bit of coconut milk or heavy cream during the final simmer for a luxuriously creamy goulash.
This twist adds a velvety texture that enhances the overall mouthfeel, making every bite a little richer. -
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika instead of regular paprika for a deeper, smokier note in the dish.
This choice enriches your goulash by adding unforgettable depth that lingers on the palate.
For even more cozy beef recipes, try making my Spicy Ground Beef or check out the creamy goodness in Beef Shells New for delightful twists you’re sure to love!
Tips for the Best Egyptian Beef Goulash
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Brown the Beef Well: Properly browning the beef enhances flavor depth. Don’t rush this step; take time to achieve a nice crust.
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Don’t Skimp on Spices: Fresh spices make a world of difference! Ensure your ground cumin, coriander, and paprika are fresh for vibrant flavors in your goulash.
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Stir Occasionally: While simmering, stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This also helps meld the flavors evenly throughout the Egyptian Beef Goulash.
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Adjust Seasoning Last: Always taste and adjust your seasoning just before serving; goulash flavors develop over time and may need a final touch of salt and pepper.
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Let It Rest: If you can, let the goulash sit for 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting time allows flavors to marry beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
What to Serve with Egyptian Beef Goulash
Elevate your cozy dinner experience by complementing this comforting goulash with delightful sides that satisfy and nourish!
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich broth, a warm loaf adds heartiness and simplicity to the meal.
- Steamed Rice: Fluffy rice acts as a canvas, allowing the vibrant flavors of the goulash to shine while balancing the dish’s richness.
- Crisp Salad: A refreshing salad of mixed greens with citrus dressing brightens the meal, adding a crunchy contrast to the tender goulash.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned with herbs, they provide a delightful caramelization and earthy flavors that enhance the overall experience.
- Sautéed Green Beans: Cooking them to a tender-crisp, green beans add nice texture to your plate and a vibrant pop of color.
- Mint Yogurt Sauce: A cool, tangy dip to serve alongside, this yogurt sauce cools the palate and adds a refreshing element.
- Red Wine: A glass of full-bodied red wine provides depth and perfectly complements the savory notes of the goulash.
- Baklava: Sweet, flaky baklava makes for a perfect dessert, balancing the savory warmth of the goulash with a delightful sweetness.
How to Store and Freeze Egyptian Beef Goulash
Fridge: Store leftover Egyptian Beef Goulash in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring it stays fresh and full of flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the goulash in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool it completely before sealing to avoid freezer burn.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen. Gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Add a splash of beef broth if it appears too thick.
Airtight Guidance: Always use airtight containers to keep your goulash tasting delicious and to prevent any unwanted odors from other foods in the fridge or freezer.
Make Ahead Options
These flavorful Egyptian Beef Goulash are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time during hectic weekdays! You can brown the beef and sauté the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to refrigerate them until you’re ready to finish the dish. Additionally, you can mix the spices and tomato paste ahead of time, storing them in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, simply heat the browned beef and vegetables in a pot, add the liquids and simmer everything together for about 45 minutes, followed by the vegetables for another 15 minutes. This way, your goulash will remain just as delicious and comforting with minimal effort on the day of serving!
Egyptian Beef Goulash Recipe FAQs
What’s the best type of beef to use for Egyptian Beef Goulash?
Absolutely! For the best results, use beef chuck since it’s well-marbled and becomes incredibly tender during cooking. Avoid lean cuts, as they won’t provide the same depth of flavor or tenderness.
How should I store my leftovers?
You can store your Egyptian Beef Goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it cools completely before sealing to preserve its delicious flavors and textures!
Can I freeze Egyptian Beef Goulash? If so, how?
Yes, you can freeze your goulash for up to 3 months! Once it has cooled, transfer the goulash into freezer-safe containers. To thaw, move it to the refrigerator overnight, then gently reheat on the stovetop, adding a splash of beef broth if needed to loosen it up.
What if my goulash is too thick after cooking?
If you find your goulash is a little too thick, no worries! Simply add a bit of beef broth or water to achieve your desired consistency. Just stir while heating to incorporate the liquids evenly and bring it back to a lovely, hearty texture.
Are there any dietary considerations for pets or allergies?
When cooking for your furry friends, it’s best to avoid adding salt or spices, as they can be hard on their digestive systems. Additionally, be cautious about any allergies your guests might have; common allergens like tomato and garlic should be disclosed while planning your meal.
What should I do if I don’t have all the spices?
If you’re missing any spices like cumin or coriander, you can make do with a combination of those you have! For instance, using just paprika will still give a good taste, though I do recommend trying to have at least the cumin, as it’s key to delivering the authentic flavor profile of Egyptian Beef Goulash.
Savory Egyptian Beef Goulash That Warms the Heart
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat the oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Season the beef chuck with salt and black pepper, then brown it on all sides for 5 to 7 minutes.
- In the same pot, sauté the diced onion for about 3 to 5 minutes until translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in the tomato paste, ground cumin, ground coriander, ground cinnamon, and paprika.
- Add the browned beef back into the pot, ensuring it is well-coated in the spices.
- Pour in beef broth and diced tomatoes; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45 minutes.
- Add diced green bell pepper and sliced carrots; simmer uncovered for 15 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
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