Description
American Goulash is a hearty and comforting dish, often known as American Chop Suey in some regions. It’s a one-pot wonder featuring ground beef, macaroni, and a rich tomato sauce, often complemented by the flavors of bell peppers, onions, and garlic. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd, offering a satisfying blend of textures and flavors that appeal to all ages.
Background and Origins
American Goulash has its roots in the traditional Hungarian goulash, a robust stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices. However, the American version, developed by immigrants adapting to available ingredients, is more akin to a pasta dish than a stew. The transformation from its European counterpart involved the introduction of ground beef and macaroni, making it a simpler and more economical meal. Over the decades, it has become a staple in American homes, particularly in the Midwest and Southern United States, celebrated for its versatility and ease of preparation.
Health Concerns
While American Goulash is a beloved comfort food, it’s important to be mindful of its nutritional content. The dish is typically high in calories, saturated fats, and sodium, primarily due to the ground beef and processed tomato products. For a healthier version, consider using lean ground beef or turkey, whole wheat macaroni, and reduced-sodium tomato sauce. Additionally, incorporating more vegetables can boost the nutritional value, providing fiber and essential vitamins.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 pound |
| Onion, chopped | 1 large |
| Green bell pepper, chopped | 1 |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 3 |
| Tomato sauce | 2 cans (15 ounces each) |
| Diced tomatoes | 1 can (15 ounces) |
| Beef broth | 2 cups |
| Worcestershire sauce | 2 tablespoons |
| Uncooked elbow macaroni | 2 cups |
| Salt | to taste |
| Black pepper | to taste |
| Cheddar cheese, shredded (optional) | 1 cup |
| Parsley, chopped (for garnish) | 2 tablespoons |
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chopped onion and green bell pepper to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add the uncooked elbow macaroni to the pot. Stir to ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid.
- Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender, stirring occasionally.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- If using, stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
- Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
Step-by-Step Making Instructions
- Brown the Beef:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook 1 pound of ground beef over medium heat until browned. Make sure to break up the meat as it cooks. Once browned, drain any excess fat.
- Cook the Vegetables:
- Add 1 large chopped onion and 1 chopped green bell pepper to the pot with the browned beef. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
- Add Garlic:
- Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for another minute until the garlic is fragrant.
- Combine with Tomato Sauce and Spices:
- Add 2 cans (15 ounces each) of tomato sauce, 1 can (15 ounces) of diced tomatoes, 2 cups of beef broth, and 2 tablespoons of Worcestershire sauce to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add Pasta:
- Stir in 2 cups of uncooked elbow macaroni. Ensure the pasta is submerged in the liquid. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the macaroni is tender, stirring occasionally.
- Season:
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Optional Cheese Addition:
- If desired, stir in 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese until melted and well combined.
- Serve:
- Serve the goulash hot, garnished with 2 tablespoons of chopped parsley.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigeration:
- Allow the goulash to cool to room temperature before storing. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing:
- For longer storage, you can freeze the goulash. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating:
- To reheat, thaw the goulash in the refrigerator overnight if frozen. Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave in a microwave-safe dish, stirring occasionally, until heated evenly.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 380
- Total Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 980mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 35g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 25g
Note: Nutrition facts are approximate and can vary based on ingredient brands and quantities used.
Advantages
- Convenience and Ease of Preparation:
- American Goulash is a simple, one-pot dish that requires minimal preparation and cooking time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you need to feed a crowd without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Versatility:
- This recipe is highly adaptable. You can easily modify it by adding your favorite vegetables, using different types of pasta, or adjusting the spices to suit your taste preferences.
- Nutritional Benefits:
- By incorporating lean ground beef or turkey, whole wheat pasta, and additional vegetables, American Goulash can be made into a nutritious meal that provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and fiber.
- Family-Friendly:
- The flavors and textures of American Goulash are generally appealing to both kids and adults. It’s a great way to introduce children to new vegetables and flavors in a familiar and comforting format.
Disadvantages
- High Calorie and Fat Content:
- Traditional American Goulash recipes often use ground beef, which can be high in saturated fats and calories. Consuming this dish frequently, especially with full-fat cheese, can contribute to weight gain and related health issues such as heart disease and high cholesterol.
- High Sodium Levels:
- The use of canned tomato sauce, beef broth, and other processed ingredients can result in a dish that is high in sodium. High sodium intake is associated with increased blood pressure and risk of cardiovascular diseases.
- Potential for Overcooking Pasta:
- Since the pasta is cooked in the same pot as the sauce and meat, it’s easy to overcook it, leading to a mushy texture that might not be appealing. Careful attention is needed to ensure the pasta is cooked just right.
- Lack of Fresh Vegetables:
- While the dish can include vegetables like bell peppers and onions, it may not have a significant amount of fresh vegetables. This can make it less nutritionally balanced compared to meals that include a variety of fresh produce.
- Monotonous Flavor Profile:
- The flavor profile of American Goulash is relatively simple and may become monotonous if eaten frequently. Unlike more complex dishes, it might lack the depth and variety of flavors that some people enjoy.
- Not Suitable for All Diets:
- Traditional American Goulash is not suitable for vegetarians, vegans, or those following a gluten-free diet without significant modifications. This limits its appeal and accessibility to people with dietary restrictions.
Additional Information
American Goulash, also known as American Chop Suey in some regions, is a dish that has been beloved by many for its simplicity and hearty nature. Unlike its Hungarian counterpart, which is more stew-like and uses paprika extensively, American Goulash is typically made with ground beef, elbow macaroni, and a tomato-based sauce. This dish has become a staple in many households due to its affordability, ease of preparation, and ability to serve large groups. It’s also highly customizable, allowing cooks to add their own twists with different vegetables, spices, and even cheeses.
FAQs
Q: Can I use a different type of pasta? A: Yes, you can substitute the elbow macaroni with other short pasta types like rotini, penne, or shells. Cooking times may vary slightly, so keep an eye on the pasta to ensure it is cooked to your preference.
Q: Can I make American Goulash in a slow cooker? A: Absolutely. Brown the ground beef and cook the vegetables in a skillet first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. Add the pasta in the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming too soft.
Q: How can I make this dish vegetarian? A: To make a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat crumbles or use extra vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Q: Can I freeze leftovers? A: Yes, American Goulash freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: How do I prevent the pasta from getting mushy? A: To prevent mushy pasta, cook the goulash until the pasta is just al dente. If you plan to reheat the dish later, consider undercooking the pasta slightly, as it will continue to cook when reheated.
Conclusion
American Goulash is a timeless, comforting dish that has found its way into the hearts and homes of many. Its simplicity, versatility, and hearty flavors make it a go-to meal for busy families and those looking to prepare a satisfying dinner without a lot of fuss. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own creative twists, American Goulash is sure to be a hit. With proper storage, you can enjoy this delicious dish for days, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping. So, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a warm, delicious bowl of American Goulash with your loved ones.