Which is the Original Goulash?

Goulash is a cornerstone of Hungarian cuisine, but every cook has their unique twist. This recipe is an inventive, flavorful version where the joy of cooking and layering flavors takes center stage. Dive in and discover how basic ingredients can transform into a hearty, soul-warming dish!

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Preparation Steps

1. Start with a bottle of wine!
Open a bottle of wine – it’ll enhance both the flavors of the dish and your cooking mood.

2. Preparing the vegetables:

• Slice 2 carrots into rounds.
• Cut 1 parsnip into oval slices.
• Julienne 1 bell pepper.
• Dice half a tomato finely.
• Chop 4 small onions into fine pieces.
• Substitute celery root with 1 large celery stalk, diced.
• Cube 4 small potatoes.

3. Searing the meat and vegetables:

• Dice 3 large slices of pork, keeping the bones aside.
• Sear the pork in a hot pan with a little oil until golden brown, then set aside.
• Add the carrots, parsnips, bell pepper, and celery to the pan, caramelizing the carrots slightly.

4. Preparing the onion base:

• Use plenty of olive oil to sauté the onions (living in an olive grove has its perks).
• Once golden brown, remove from heat and stir in smoked paprika generously.

5. Assembling the broth:

• Combine the bones, grilled vegetables, and pan drippings in a pot.
• Add the potatoes, seared pork, and diced tomato.
• Pour in just enough water to cover everything.

6. Tasting and seasoning:

• When half the liquid has evaporated, taste and season with crushed pink peppercorns and salt.
• Add more water, boil it down halfway again, and repeat the tasting process.
• On the third round, add a generous amount of water to the pot.

7. Slow cooking:

• Although I couldn’t find cumin or bay leaves this time, I’ll add them next time for an extra flavor boost.
• Let the goulash simmer on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

8. Final touches:

• While the goulash cooks, I multitask by ironing my shirts – because why not?
• Just before serving, I pour in a splash of red wine for an extra depth of flavor.

9. Serving and pride:

• Once ready, I serve the goulash and proudly share the accomplishment with my neighbor.

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This goulash is filled with love, creativity, and a touch of humor. Cooking it is an adventure, and the result is worth every step! 😊
November 16, 2024