Sausage Goulash Recipe

Picture this: a cozy evening, the aroma of sizzling sausage and spices wafting through the air, as I craft a hearty sausage goulash that’s as comforting as a favorite hoodie. Join me as I walk through the steps to creating this vibrant, flavor-packed dish that promises to be a hit at any table.

I love this Sausage Goulash recipe for its rich flavor and hearty ingredients. The smoky kielbasa, paired with vibrant red and green bell peppers, creates a robust dish that satisfies every craving.

With a hint of paprika and garlic, this dish is not only flavorful but also a comforting, protein-rich meal.

Sausage Goulash Recipe Ingredients

• Sausage: Adds rich, savory protein.

  Enhances umami with smokiness.

• Onion: Offers natural sweetness and depth.

  Rich in antioxidants.

• Garlic: Intensifies flavor.

  Promotes heart health and boosts immunity.

• Bell Peppers: Vibrant colors; source of vitamins A and C.

  Adds crunch.

• Paprika: Sweet, smoky heat.

  Packed with antioxidants, brightens color.

• Tomatoes: Juicy, tangy base.

  High in vitamin C and lycopene.

• Sour Cream: Creamy texture, slight tang.

  Balances spice, adds richness.

Sausage Goulash Recipe Ingredient Quantities

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• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound sausage, sliced (kielbasa or smoked sausage)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup sour cream
• Chopped parsley for garnish

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How to Make this Sausage Goulash Recipe

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

2. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

3. Add the diced green and red bell peppers to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes until the peppers start to soften.

4. Stir in the paprika and caraway seeds, coating the vegetables evenly with the spices.

5. Add the tomato paste to the skillet, stirring it into the vegetables, and let it cook for another 2 minutes to deepen the flavor.

6. Pour in the diced tomatoes and their juices, along with the beef broth, and stir to combine.

7. Return the browned sausage to the skillet, mixing it with the sauce and vegetables.

8. Season the goulash with salt and black pepper. Let it simmer over medium-low heat for about 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

9. Before serving, stir in the sour cream, making sure it’s completely incorporated into the sauce.

10. Serve the sausage goulash hot, garnished with chopped parsley. Enjoy it with crusty bread or over your choice of pasta or rice.

Sausage Goulash Recipe Equipment Needed

1. Large skillet
2. Wooden spoon or spatula
3. Knife
4. Cutting board
5. Measuring spoons
6. Measuring cup
7. Can opener
8. Mixing bowl (optional, for setting aside ingredients)

FAQ

• Q: Can I use a different type of sausage?
  
  A: Yes, you can use any smoked sausage or kielbasa. Adjust the cooking time if needed.
• Q: Is there a substitute for paprika?
  
  A: You can use smoked paprika for a different flavor, but the classic sweet paprika is recommended.
• Q: How can I make this dish spicier?
  
  A: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some sliced chili for more heat.
• Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
  
  A: Yes, use about 2 cups of diced fresh tomatoes instead of the canned could work well.
• Q: How do I make this dish gluten-free?
  
  A: Ensure all your ingredients, especially the sausage and broth, are certified gluten-free.
• Q: Can I freeze Sausage Goulash?
  
  A: Yes, allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
• Q: What’s the best way to serve this goulash?
  
  A: It pairs well with crusty bread, over rice, or even mashed potatoes.

Sausage Goulash Recipe Substitutions and Variations

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• Kielbasa or smoked sausage can be substituted with chorizo or turkey sausage for different flavor profiles.
• Paprika can be replaced with smoked paprika or chili powder for a more intense or spicy flavor.
• Caraway seeds can be substituted with fennel seeds or cumin seeds if caraway is unavailable.
• Tomato paste can be replaced with tomato sauce, but reduce the beef broth slightly to maintain the desired thickness.
• Sour cream can be substituted with Greek yogurt for a tangier and healthier alternative.

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Pro Tips

1. Enhance Flavor with Browning When cooking the sausage, ensure it’s browned well on both sides. This step develops a deeper umami flavor that will enrich the entire dish.

2. Deglaze the Pan After removing the sausage, deglaze the skillet with a splash of beef broth or water. This will lift the flavorful bits stuck to the pan and add them back into the dish, enhancing the overall taste.

3. Balance the Acidity If the dish tastes too acidic due to the tomatoes, add a pinch of sugar or a splash of balsamic vinegar to balance the flavors.

4. Texture Play with Peppers For added texture, consider keeping some pieces of bell pepper slightly larger. This provides a delightful contrast in texture compared to the softer vegetables.

5. Herb Infusion For added freshness, you can add fresh thyme or a bay leaf while the goulash is simmering. Be sure to remove the bay leaf before serving.