Goulash is a Hungarian dish made with various meats and vegetables, often served over noodles or rice and topped with sour cream. Different countries have added their own twists, with American versions including lots of vegetables and rice. Goulash is easy to prepare and can be customized with any combination of ingredients.
Originally from Hungary, goulash is a dish prepared with a combination of different types of meat and an assortment of vegetables. The texture is roughly that of a thick stew, making it ideal for serving over various types of noodles or rice. It is often served with a dollop of sour cream on top of the mixture, adding a slightly creamy quality to the dish.
The most popular format for goulash is the original from Hungary. Typically, Hungarian goulash included a variety of meats, with the selection depending on what was currently available. Pork, beef, venison and fowl were all traditional components. Modern versions tend to use a blend of beef and chicken, along with a selection of vegetables. The vegetables are sometimes chopped very fine, while other recipes call for them to be left heavy. Spices also play an important role in taste. Recipes from Hungary usually include the use of paprika and parsley.
As the international popularity of the dish has increased, other countries have added different twists to the basic blend of meat and vegetables. Beef goulash is a popular American version, using everything from ground beef to leftover roasted portions. Often, the American version will include lots of potatoes, corn, green beans, tomatoes, and any other vegetables that are in season at the time. American shapes are still thick and will often be served as a topping for thin noodles.
Rice is also a popular accompaniment to goulash. Many dishes call for the stew to be poured over white rice, although some people may opt to use a flavored rice-and-vermicelli blend that complements the meats used in the goulash. In the southern part of the United States, it is often prepared to serve with leftover fried rice, giving the rice a different taste and look the second time around.
Goulash is easy to prepare. Just as with vegetable soups, any combination of vegetables is acceptable. The meats also vary, although it is generally recommended that the meats be cooked before adding them to the sauce and vegetables. The real key to making this dish is making sure the mixture thickens and that all ingredients are cooked through before serving. Using potato starch is one way to ensure the final product has the proper texture. Numerous recipes for different types of goulash can be found online, as well as in many cookbooks on the market today.
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