Quick & Easy Instant Pot Beef Goulash Recipe

Introduction

This Instant Pot Beef Goulash recipe is a perfect blend of ease, flavor, and creativity, utilizing everyday ingredients to create a dish that’s both comforting and impressive. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the depth of flavor it achieves with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. With the Instant Pot, you can achieve a rich, tender beef goulash in a fraction of the time it would take with traditional cooking methods, and the best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal supervision.

Why This Works

• The balance of flavors in this recipe, combined with the accessibility of the ingredients, makes it a winner for anyone looking to cook a delicious meal without breaking the bank or spending hours in the kitchen.
• The ease of preparation is another significant advantage, as it allows you to quickly chop the ingredients, sauté them in the Instant Pot, and then let the pot do the magic, resulting in a perfectly cooked meal with minimal effort.
• Despite the simplicity of the recipe, the results are impressive, with the beef becoming tender, the vegetables retaining their texture, and the sauce thickening to perfection, all of which combine to create a dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef stew meat (cut into 1 1/2-inch pieces)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium bell peppers (any color), sliced
• 2 cups beef broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 oz sour cream (for serving)
• Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients – Begin by chopping the onion, slicing the bell peppers, and mincing the garlic. Cut the beef into bite-sized pieces and season with salt and pepper.
2. Step 2: Sear the Beef – Press the “Saute” button on the Instant Pot and heat the oil until shimmering. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove the browned beef from the pot and set it aside.
3. Step 3: Soften the Onions and Peppers – Add more oil if necessary, then add the chopped onion and sliced bell peppers to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Step 4: Add the Remaining Ingredients – Add the browned beef back into the pot, along with the beef broth, diced tomatoes, paprika, and caraway seeds. Stir to combine, making sure all the ingredients are well coated with the sauce.
5. Step 5: Cook the Goulash – Close the lid of the Instant Pot, making sure the valve is set to “Sealing”. Press the “Meat/Stew” button or “Manual” mode and set the cooking time to 20 minutes at high pressure. When the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
6. Step 6: Serve – Serve the goulash hot, topped with a dollop of sour cream and garnished with chopped parsley. Traditionally, goulash is served with bread or over egg noodles, so feel free to add your preferred accompaniment.

Handy Tips

• For a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water and add it to the pot before cooking. This will help thicken the sauce as it cooks.
• If you prefer a spicy goulash, you can add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
• Consider adding other vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or carrots to the pot for added flavor and nutrition.

Heat Control

The Instant Pot makes it easy to control the heat and cooking time, ensuring that your goulash is cooked to perfection. The “Meat/Stew” button is specifically designed for cooking tougher cuts of meat until they’re tender, and the high pressure helps to break down the connective tissues in the meat, resulting in a tender and flavorful dish.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this recipe comes from the bell peppers and the freshness of the parsley garnish. To maintain the crunch of the bell peppers, make sure not to overcook them during the sautéing process. A slight tenderizing is desirable, but they should still retain some of their crispiness.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use a variety of bell peppers for a colorful and visually appealing dish. Red, green, and yellow bell peppers add not only flavor but also a pop of color to the goulash.
• For an extra rich flavor, brown the beef in batches if necessary, to ensure each piece gets a nice crust. This step enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Let the goulash rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together. This resting time makes a significant difference in the depth and balance of flavors in the final dish.

Storage Tips

• Leftover goulash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently over low heat, adding a bit of water if the sauce has thickened too much.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting this goulash, it can be packaged in decorative, airtight containers and served with a side of crusty bread or over egg noodles. Add a personal touch with a handwritten recipe card and a sprinkle of fresh parsley on top. For a more rustic look, use mason jars and tie a ribbon around the lid, accompanied by a bag of crusty bread or a packet of egg noodles.

Flavor Variations

• Experiment with different spices like cumin, chili powder, or smoked paprika to give the goulash a unique twist.
• Consider adding creative toppings such as diced onions, sour cream, chives, or even grated cheese for added flavor and texture.
• Swap out the beef for pork, lamb, or even chicken for a different protein option. Each will change the flavor profile slightly, so feel free to experiment and find your favorite.

Troubleshooting

• If the goulash turns out too thick, add a bit of beef broth or water to thin it out. Conversely, if it’s too thin, mix in some cornstarch or flour with a small amount of water and add it to the pot, then simmer for a few minutes to thicken.
• If you find the flavors too bland, adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or add other spices to taste. Sometimes, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can also brighten up the flavors.
• For texture issues, ensure that the beef is cooked until tender. If it’s still tough after the recommended cooking time, close the lid and cook for an additional 10 minutes, then check again.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, the goulash can be frozen for up to 3 months. Freeze it in airtight containers or freezer bags, and reheat over low heat when ready to serve.
• Is it gluten-free? This recipe is gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten intolerance. However, always check the ingredients of the beef broth and diced tomatoes to ensure they are gluten-free.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, the recipe can be easily doubled or tripled to feed a larger crowd. Just ensure that the Instant Pot is not overfilled, as this can affect the cooking performance and safety.

Conclusion

This Quick & Easy Instant Pot Beef Goulash recipe is a versatile and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich, tender beef and vibrant vegetables, it’s sure to become a favorite. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and ingredients to make the recipe your own, and enjoy the process of creating a delicious meal with minimal fuss. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is a great addition to any meal repertoire, offering comfort, flavor, and ease all in one delicious package.