A Hearty Twist on Tradition: Goulash with Minced Meat and Mozzarella Cheese

Goulash, the quintessential Hungarian stew, has warmed the hearts and bellies of families for generations. Traditionally made with chunks of beef, vegetables, and the indispensable paprika, this dish has seen countless variations across the globe. Today, we’re giving this classic a hearty twist by incorporating minced meat and the gooey goodness of mozzarella cheese.

The Origins of Goulash

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a brief look at the history of goulash. Originating from the medieval Kingdom of Hungary, goulash was a staple for shepherds who needed to cook hearty meals with limited ingredients. The name itself comes from the Hungarian “gulyás,” meaning “herdsman.” Over time, it became a national dish beloved by all, with each region adding its unique touch.

Ingredients

To make this comforting stew, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 500g minced meat (beef or a mix of beef and pork)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 can diced tomatoes (400g)
• 2 tablespoons Hungarian paprika
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 1 liter beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 200g mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Instructions

1. Preparation: Start by preparing all your vegetables. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, dice the bell pepper, and slice the carrots. Set aside.

2. Brown the Meat: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the minced meat and cook until browned. Break up any large pieces with a spoon.

3. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onions to the pot and sauté until translucent. Stir in the garlic, bell pepper, and carrots, cooking for another 5 minutes.

4. Spice it Up: Stir in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes, paprika, and caraway seeds. Cook for a couple of minutes until the spices are fragrant.

5. Simmer: Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

6. Cheese Please: A few minutes before the goulash is done, stir in half of the shredded mozzarella cheese until it melts into the stew.

7. Serve: Ladle the goulash into bowls, top with the remaining mozzarella cheese, and garnish with fresh parsley.

8. Enjoy: Serve your goulash hot, with a side of crusty bread or over a bed of egg noodles.

Tips and Tricks

• Meat Choices: While we’ve used minced meat for this recipe, feel free to experiment with beef chunks or even lamb for a different flavor profile.
• Cheese Variations: Mozzarella provides a mild, creamy texture, but you can also try sharp cheddar or smoked gouda for a bolder taste.
• Make it Spicy: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce.

Conclusion

This goulash with minced meat and mozzarella cheese is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings a touch of Hungarian tradition to your table with a modern twist. It’s perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something hearty and satisfying. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s bring this fusion of flavors to life!