As I stirred the simmering pot of Egyptian Beef Goulash, the tantalizing aroma immediately transported me to bustling markets filled with vibrant spices and warm camaraderie. This hearty stew brings everyone to the table, showcasing tender beef and an aromatic blend of spices that create a warm embrace with every bite. What makes this Egyptian Beef Goulash truly special is its comforting simplicity—it’s the kind of dish that warms not just your stomach, but your soul, making it perfect for cozy family dinners. Plus, it’s so easy to whip up, you’ll have time to enjoy a glass of wine as it cooks! Ready to put a delicious spin on your weeknight meals? Let’s dive into this heartwarming recipe!
Why is this Egyptian Beef Goulash a Must-Try?
Comforting Simplicity: This stew is incredibly easy to make, perfect for both novice cooks and experienced chefs.
Flavor Explosion: The rich blend of spices transforms tender beef into a taste sensation that’s sure to impress.
Versatile Ingredients: You can easily substitute a variety of veggies or even try Sticky Beef Noodles for a different twist!
Healthier Option: Swap to lean cuts of beef for a lighter version without sacrificing flavor.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Ideal for family dinners, this dish brings everyone together, just like a warm hug on a chilly night. Prepare to wow your loved ones with this delightful recipe!
Egyptian Beef Goulash Ingredients
This hearty stew relies on a rich blend of flavors for a comforting dining experience.
For the Stew
- Beef Chuck – Provides heartiness and rich flavor; can use stew meat if unavailable.
- Olive Oil – Used for sautéing and flavor; can substitute with vegetable oil.
- Onions – Enhance sweetness and texture; shallots can be used for a milder flavor.
- Garlic – Adds aromatic depth; minced for best flavor extraction.
- Tomato Paste – Contributes richness and acidity; can use tomato sauce if needed.
- Ground Cumin – Offers a warm, earthy flavor; essential for authenticity in Egyptian Beef Goulash.
- Ground Coriander – Adds citrusy notes; use caraway seeds for a different flavor profile.
- Ground Cinnamon – Introduces warmth and complexity; use Ceylon cinnamon for a milder taste.
- Paprika – Provides color and mild flavor; substitute with smoked paprika for a deeper flavor.
- Black Pepper – For seasoning and spice; freshly ground is preferred.
- Salt – Essential for flavor adjustment; adjust to taste.
- Beef Broth – Base for the stew, adding depth; vegetable broth for a lighter option.
- Diced Tomatoes – Enhance sauce and freshness; canned or fresh both work well.
- Green Bell Pepper – Adds crunch and color; any bell pepper variant can be used.
- Carrots – Provide sweetness and texture; can replace with other root vegetables.
- Fresh Parsley – Used for garnish and freshness; cilantro can be used for a different herb note.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Egyptian Beef Goulash
Step 1: Preheat and Sauté
Begin by preheating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once hot, pour in a tablespoon of olive oil, allowing it to shimmer. Carefully add your beef chuck chunks, seasoning them generously with salt and pepper. Sear the beef for about 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are a deep golden brown. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.
Step 2: Cook the Aromatics
Using the same pot, lower the heat slightly and add another drizzle of olive oil if needed. Add the chopped onions and sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring until they become translucent and fragrant. Then, add the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute just until aromatic, allowing the flavors to blossom in the Egyptian Beef Goulash.
Step 3: Add the Tomato Paste and Spices
Stir in the tomato paste, allowing it to combine with the onions and garlic for a minute. Next, sprinkle in the ground cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and paprika, stirring continuously for about 30 seconds. This brief cooking time will help bloom the spices, releasing their essential oils and enhancing the aroma and flavor of your Egyptian Beef Goulash.
Step 4: Combine the Beef and Liquid
Return the browned beef to the pot, mixing it well into the spice-filled onion mixture. Pour in 4 cups of beef broth and add the diced tomatoes. Bring everything to a vigorous boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot with a lid, allowing the stew to slowly cook and meld the flavors for about 45 minutes.
Step 5: Add Vegetables
After the initial simmering period, carefully lift the lid and add the chopped green bell peppers and carrots into the bubbling Egyptian Beef Goulash. Stir gently to combine and ensure the vegetables are submerged in the flavorful broth. Cover again and continue to simmer for another 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender yet still vibrant.
Step 6: Final Seasoning
Once the vegetables are tender, taste your hearty stew and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper as desired. The Egyptian Beef Goulash should now have a well-rounded flavor, making it even more inviting and comforting.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Finally, when you are ready to serve, ladle the goulash into bowls, garnishing each serving with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. This warm and rich Egyptian Beef Goulash is perfect to enjoy alongside crusty bread or over fluffy rice, inviting everyone to savor its delightful flavors!
Storage Tips for Egyptian Beef Goulash
Fridge: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: Freeze Egyptian Beef Goulash in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth or water if needed, until warmed through.
Room Temperature: Allow the stew to cool for no more than 2 hours before storing it in the fridge or freezer to ensure safety and quality.
Egyptian Beef Goulash Variations & Substitutions
Customize your Egyptian Beef Goulash for even more tantalizing flavors and textures that’ll keep everyone coming back for more!
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Healthier Beef: Swap out beef chuck for lean sirloin to cut down on fat without sacrificing flavor.
Explore ways to maintain that rich taste while making it a little lighter! -
Veggie Boost: Add peas or butternut squash during the last 15 minutes of cooking for added nutrition and sweetness. The more colorful your goulash, the more inviting it becomes!
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Smoky Twist: Use smoked paprika instead of regular for a slightly smoky flavor that complements the spices beautifully. It adds a whole new layer of depth!
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Cayenne Heat: Sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper to take your goulash up a notch in spice levels. Just be sure to start small and adjust to your heat preference for the perfect kick!
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Herb Alternatives: Instead of parsley, try topping your stew with fresh cilantro for an aromatic twist that introduces a whole new fresh flavor. It’s a delightful surprise that pairs beautifully!
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Broth Variations: Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a lighter option that’s still rich in flavor. This makes for a great vegetarian-friendly goulash.
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Root Vegetable Medley: Incorporate different root vegetables like parsnips or sweet potatoes for a mix of textures and flavors that enhance your goulash’s heartiness. Don’t hesitate to get creative!
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Gluten-Free Option: Serve your goulash over quinoa or a gluten-free grain to cater to dietary restrictions while still enjoying a comforting meal.
For additional ideas or variations, check out my delicious recipe for Sticky Beef Noodles or give a try to my Slow Cooker Beef recipe for those busy weeknights!
What to Serve with Egyptian Beef Goulash
Creating the perfect meal around this aromatic stew can elevate your dinner experience to a whole new level.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich broth, crusty bread complements the hearty nature of the goulash beautifully. Imagine the satisfying crunch against the smooth, tender stew—pure comfort!
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Fluffy Rice: Rice serves as a neutral base that harmonizes with the spices, allowing the robust flavors to shine. It absorbs the goulash’s essence, creating a delightful marriage of textures with each bite.
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, mashed potatoes bring a luscious smoothness that pairs wonderfully with the stew’s savory character. Their comforting texture adds an additional layer of warmth to your meal.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables adds color and crunch, creating a visually appealing and nutritious balance alongside the goulash. The caramelization enhances the natural sweetness, beautifully contrasting the stew’s flavors.
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Cucumber Salad: A fresh cucumber salad provides a crisp, refreshing bite, cutting through the richness of the goulash. The cool crunch of cucumbers and a tangy dressing offers a delightful palate cleanser.
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Red Wine: A glass of rich red wine, like a Cabernet Sauvignon, enhances the hearty flavors of the stew, making every bite even more exquisite. It invites a sense of indulgence as you savor your meal.
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Chocolate Mousse: A light, airy chocolate mousse can be the perfect sweet ending to a hearty meal. Its rich, creamy texture will wonderfully contrast the savory notes of the goulash, leaving everyone satisfied.
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Mint Tea: Serve traditional mint tea as a refreshing finish. The herbal notes can cleanse the palate and offer an authentic Egyptian touch, rounding off your culinary journey beautifully.
Make Ahead Options
These delicious Egyptian Beef Goulash preparations are great for busy home cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop the vegetables and brown the beef up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy your cozy stew, follow the original cooking steps by starting with the sautéed onions and garlic, then add in your prepped beef and veggies. This makes the final cooking time even quicker, blending the rich flavors just perfectly with minimal effort—ensuring your meal is just as scrumptious as if it had been made from scratch!
Expert Tips for Egyptian Beef Goulash
• Browning the Beef: Ensure the beef is well-browned for maximum flavor development; otherwise, your stew may lack depth.
• Watch the Simmer: Stir occasionally during the simmering phase to avoid sticking or burning at the bottom of the pot.
• Check for Tenderness: Adjust cooking times based on the beef’s tenderness; it should be fork-tender at the end for optimal enjoyment.
• Flavor Adjustment: Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning before serving; this is key in achieving the perfect Egyptian Beef Goulash.
• Timing is Everything: Allow enough simmering time to meld flavors; a longer cook can deepen the richness of the stew.
Egyptian Beef Goulash Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best beef for this goulash?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, choose well-marbled beef chuck, which offers tenderness and richness. If you can’t find chuck, opt for stew meat, but ensure it has some fat for flavor and moisture.
What’s the best way to store leftovers of Egyptian Beef Goulash?
Refrigerate your Egyptian Beef Goulash in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure to let it cool down before sealing it to keep it fresh. I often place a piece of parchment paper between the lid and container to absorb any excess moisture and improve quality.
Can I freeze this goulash?
Yes, you can! Transfer your cooled Egyptian Beef Goulash into a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it slowly on the stove, adding a splash of broth for moisture if needed.
What should I do if my beef is tough after cooking?
If your beef isn’t tender, it may require a bit more cooking time. Bring it back to a low simmer, cover, and cook for an additional 15-30 minutes. Adding a splash of beef broth can also help create more moisture and tenderness.
Can anyone enjoy this goulash, even with dietary restrictions?
Very! This dish is naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free broth and tomato paste. However, if you’re concerned about allergies, always double-check ingredient labels, especially for store-bought items. Additionally, you can substitute any vegetables as needed for dietary preferences.
How do I make my goulash more flavorful?
Great question! For an extra flavor boost, consider marinating the beef in spices and a touch of yogurt for hours before cooking. Additionally, blooming your spices in olive oil before adding liquids can enhance their flavors immensely. Don’t forget to adjust your salt— it’s essential for flavor!
Delicious Egyptian Beef Goulash: Hearty Comfort in Every Bite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add a tablespoon of olive oil and sear the beef chuck for 5 to 7 minutes until browned.
- Lower the heat, add onions, and sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Stir in tomato paste, followed by spices. Cook for 30 seconds to bloom the spices.
- Return browned beef to the pot, pour in beef broth and add diced tomatoes. Bring to boil, then reduce to simmer for 45 minutes.
- Add chopped bell peppers and carrots, stir, cover, and continue to simmer for 15 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper.
- Serve in bowls, garnished with parsley. Enjoy with crusty bread or rice.
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