As the fragrant aroma of simmering spices fills the kitchen, I’m transported to the vibrant streets of Egypt with each rich bite of this Egyptian Beef Goulash. This comfort food classic melds tender beef with a colorful array of vegetables, creating a heartfelt one-pot meal that’s not only hearty but also incredibly easy to whip up. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or when you want to impress guests at a gathering, this dish promises satisfaction without any fuss. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, making it a great choice for everyone around your table. Are you ready to dive into a dish that will warm your soul and tantalize your taste buds? Let’s explore how to make this delicious goulash!

Why is Egyptian Beef Goulash a Must-Try?

Flavor Explosion: This dish boasts a rich symphony of spices that transforms simple ingredients into a culinary masterpiece. Fresh herbs like parsley elevate the experience, ensuring each bite is a delight.

One-Pot Wonder: Simplify your cooking with this easy-to-follow recipe that requires minimal cleanup, letting you focus on enjoying your meal rather than fussing in the kitchen.

Family-Friendly: With its hearty nature and comforting taste, this goulash appeals to everyone at the table, making it perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.

Customizable: Feel free to switch things up by substituting beef with lamb or adding chickpeas for a vegetarian twist. Check out my Caramelized Pulled Beef if you want a meaty alternative or want to explore more tasty ideas!

Meal Prep Hero: Make ahead and store for days! The flavors only improve over time, making it a great candidate for leftovers.

Dive into the heartfelt notes of this authentic dish, and enjoy a meal that syncs perfectly with your busy lifestyle!

Egyptian Beef Goulash Ingredients

For the Goulash

Beef Chuck – Choose well-marbled cuts for a tender texture that melts in your mouth.
Olive Oil – Used for browning the beef and sautéing vegetables; vegetable oil can be substituted if preferred.
Onions – Adds sweetness and depth; yellow or white onions work best for this dish.
Garlic – Infuses the goulash with a wonderful aroma; fresh minced garlic is highly recommended.
Tomato Paste – Concentrates the tomato flavor and enhances richness; crushed tomatoes can be used as a substitute.
Ground Cumin – An essential spice contributing warm, earthy notes crucial for authentic Egyptian Beef Goulash.
Ground Coriander – Adds citrusy undertones; can substitute with caraway seeds if needed.
Ground Cinnamon – Introduces warmth and complexity; use sparingly for balanced flavors.
Paprika – Provides color and a mild pepper taste; opt for smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor.
Black Pepper – Enhances overall seasoning; freshly ground is preferred for the best taste.
Salt – Essential for flavor enhancement; adjust according to your personal taste preferences.
Beef Broth – Forms the cooking liquid, adding richness; vegetable broth can be used for a lighter goulash.
Diced Tomatoes – Adds moisture and acidity; both canned and fresh tomatoes work well.
Green Bell Pepper – Adds a fresh crunch; red or yellow bell peppers can be substituted for added sweetness.
Carrots – Provide sweetness and texture; parsnips are a great substitute for a different flavor profile.
Fresh Parsley (for garnish) – Brightens the dish with a pop of color; cilantro can be used for an herbaceous twist.

Feel free to gather these ingredients and prepare yourself for a flavorful journey with this delightful Egyptian Beef Goulash!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Egyptian Beef Goulash

Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. This should take about 2 minutes. Once hot, ensure the oil glistens, indicating it’s ready for cooking.

Step 2: Brown the Beef
Add 2 pounds of beef chuck, cutting it into 2-inch chunks, and season generously with salt and black pepper. Sear the beef for approximately 5-7 minutes, browning on all sides. Look for a rich brown color to develop, which enhances the flavor. Once browned, remove the beef and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add 1 chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they turn translucent and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Then, add 3 cloves of minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant, filling the kitchen with a delightful aroma.

Step 4: Add the Spices
Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste along with 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of ground coriander, ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of paprika. Cook this mixture for 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to bloom and enhance the flavor profile of your Egyptian Beef Goulash.

Step 5: Combine the Ingredients
Return the browned beef to the pot, mixing it thoroughly with the sautéed onions and spices. This will ensure the beef absorbs the delicious flavors. Give it a good stir, and let it combine for about a minute.

Step 6: Add Liquids and Vegetables
Pour in 4 cups of beef broth and 1 can of diced tomatoes (about 14.5 ounces), stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, cover the pot with a lid, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer gently for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 7: Add Bell Peppers and Carrots
After 45 minutes, add 1 diced green bell pepper and 2 chopped carrots to the goulash. Stir them into the pot, continuing to simmer uncovered for an additional 15 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and vibrant.

Step 8: Final Seasoning Touches
Taste your Egyptian Beef Goulash and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and black pepper if needed. This is your chance to make it perfect, so don’t hesitate to enhance those flavors to your liking.

Step 9: Garnish and Serve
Once everything is well combined and flavors melded, remove from heat. Garnish your hearty Egyptian Beef Goulash with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color. Serve hot with crusty bread or over rice, and enjoy this comforting meal with family and friends.

How to Store and Freeze Egyptian Beef Goulash

Fridge: Store your Egyptian Beef Goulash in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore moisture.

Freezer: Freeze portions of the goulash in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, and reheat gently on the stove over low heat until warmed through.

Reheating: When reheating, add a little beef broth or water to prevent drying out, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Enjoy the rich flavors just as they were!

Airtight Storage: For best results, ensure your goulash is cooled completely before sealing in airtight containers to preserve its savory quality and prevent freezer burn.

Expert Tips for the Best Egyptian Beef Goulash

Proper Browning: Ensure the beef is well-browned before simmering; this enhances the depth of flavor and gives a depp, rich color to your dish.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables and herbs, as they significantly boost the flavor of your Egyptian Beef Goulash and provide vibrant colors.
Season at the End: Taste and adjust your seasoning towards the end of cooking. This prevents over-salting and allows the dish to develop its unique flavors.
Texture Matters: For a thicker goulash, simmer uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes. This allows excess liquid to evaporate, resulting in a hearty final dish.
Resting Time: Let the goulash sit for a few minutes after cooking. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a more cohesive taste.

Egyptian Beef Goulash Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to get creative and customize this delightful dish to suit your taste buds and dietary needs!

Lamb Swap: Replace beef with tender lamb for a richer, slightly gamier flavor that pairs beautifully with the spices.
Vegetarian Delight: For a meatless version, substitute the beef with chickpeas or lentils, adding protein without compromising taste.
Heat It Up: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra kick that will leave you craving more!
Pepper Medley: Swap the green bell pepper for a colorful mix of red, yellow, and orange peppers for added sweetness and vibrancy.
Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking for a luscious, creamy texture.
Herb Upgrade: Replace parsley with fresh cilantro for a vibrant, herbaceous twist that brightens the dish even more.
Smoky Flavor: Use smoked paprika instead of regular for an extra layer of depth and a hint of smokiness.
Thickening Option: If you prefer a thicker goulash, mix in some diced potatoes, which will absorb flavors while thickening the sauce.

These variations will keep your cooking exciting while still embracing the authentic flavors of this beloved dish. If you’re in the mood for more meaty goodness, check out my Caramelized Pulled Beef for another crowd-pleaser!

Make Ahead Options

These Egyptian Beef Goulash preparations are perfect for busy weeknights and make meal planning a breeze! You can brown the beef and sauté the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to maintain quality. Additionally, you can mix the spices and prepare the broth, keeping them separate until ready to cook. When you’re ready to enjoy your goulash, combine the prepared ingredients in the pot, add the broth and diced tomatoes, and simmer until heated through, typically around 30-40 minutes. This way, you’ll achieve just as flavorful results with minimal effort, making a satisfying, hearty meal whenever you need it!

What to Serve with Savory Egyptian Beef Goulash

Elevate your dining experience with perfect pairings that enhance the heartwarming essence of this delicious dish.

Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the rich sauce, crusty bread adds a delightful texture that complements the goulash beautifully.
Steamed Rice: Fluffy rice absorbs the flavorful juices, creating a satisfying base that rounds out this one-pot meal nicely.
Roasted Vegetables: A colorful medley of roasted veggies adds a sweet and smoky contrast, providing a fresh element to your meal.
Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers and tangy dressing brighten each bite, adding a refreshing crunch that balances the sumptuous goulash.
Classic Green Beans: Tender green beans seasoned simply with salt and pepper offer a vibrant and healthy side, enhancing the meal’s overall appeal.
Mint Yogurt Sauce: A dollop of mint yogurt sauce introduces a cooling effect and a fabulous flavor contrast that delights the palate.

These pairings bring texture and flavor into a harmonious dining experience, making each meal a cherished moment around the table.

Egyptian Beef Goulash Recipe FAQs

What type of beef is best for Egyptian Beef Goulash?
For the best texture and flavor, I recommend using beef chuck, as it has a good amount of marbling that makes it tender and juicy once cooked. Look for cuts with some fat for added richness, cutting them into 2-inch chunks before browning.

How should I store leftover Egyptian Beef Goulash?
Store your Egyptian Beef Goulash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you might want to add a splash of beef broth to restore moisture and enhance the flavors.

Can I freeze Egyptian Beef Goulash?
Absolutely! You can freeze the goulash in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To do this, let it cool completely before sealing. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of broth if necessary.

What are some troubleshooting tips for making goulash?
If your goulash turns out too thick, you can always add a little beef broth or water while reheating to reach your desired consistency. On the other hand, if it’s too watery, let it simmer uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes to reduce the liquid further. For a richer flavor, don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning towards the end of cooking!

Is Egyptian Beef Goulash suitable for any dietary restrictions?
This dish is naturally gluten-free since it does not contain any gluten-containing ingredients. However, if you’re preparing it for someone with allergies, double-check your broth and other packaged ingredients for any hidden allergens. For those avoiding red meat, you can substitute the beef with lamb or even add chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

How can I enhance the flavors of my Egyptian Beef Goulash?
To elevate the flavors, use fresh herbs like parsley as a garnish, and don’t shy away from adjusting spices according to your taste. You might also consider incorporating a splash of lemon juice before serving for a refreshing brightness. Enjoy experimenting!