Goulash alla Praga, also known as Prague-style goulash, is a delicious and hearty dish that originates from the Czech Republic. This flavorful stew is made with tender chunks of beef, onions, garlic, caraway seeds, and of course, the essential ingredient – paprika. The combination of these ingredients creates a rich and aromatic dish that will warm you up on a cold winter’s day. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients:
– 1.5 pounds beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons sweet paprika
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 cup sour cream
– Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.
2. In the same pot, add the diced onions and minced garlic. Cook until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the sweet paprika and caraway seeds. Cook for an additional minute to release the flavors.
4. Return the beef to the pot and add the beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the goulash simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the flour and sour cream until smooth. Gradually add some of the hot liquid from the pot to the sour cream mixture, whisking continuously. This step will prevent the sour cream from curdling when added to the hot goulash.
7. Stir the sour cream mixture into the pot and cook for an additional 10 minutes, or until the goulash has thickened slightly.
8. Serve the goulash alla Praga hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. This dish pairs perfectly with buttered noodles, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.
Goulash alla Praga is a timeless classic that has been enjoyed by Czech families for generations. The combination of tender beef, savory onions, and smoky paprika creates a comforting dish that will transport your taste buds to the heart of Prague. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking to satisfy your hunger, this recipe is sure to please both your palate and your soul. Try it out and experience the flavors of the Czech Republic in your own kitchen!