Croatian · Dinner · Easy
Croatian Goulash
- Total
- 3 hr 40 min
- Prep
- 1 hr 15 min
- Serves
- 4
- Calories
- 440
Beef chuck simmers with onions, grated carrots, mustard and red wine until the sauce clings to tender, spoon-cut pieces.
Slowly softened onions give Croatian goulash its body without flour. Grated carrot melts into the wine-rich liquid while a little mustard sharpens the beef and keeps the sauce from tasting heavy.
Use chuck rather than lean steak and cut it into even pieces. The pot should barely bubble; a hard boil tightens the meat before its connective tissue has time to soften.
Method
Toss beef chuck with Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper and paprika. Cover and refrigerate for . Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat; brown the beef in two batches for each and transfer to a plate.
Add the remaining oil, onions and carrots. Cook over medium-low heat for until soft and lightly golden. Add garlic and stir for , then return the beef and add bay leaves and red wine. Simmer for .
Add water, cover and simmer over low heat for until the beef is fork-tender and well above 145°F. Stir occasionally; if the sauce gets too thick before the meat softens, add a little water. Remove bay leaves and rest off the heat for .
Forkue tips
- If the meat is tender but the sauce is thin, lift out the beef and reduce the liquid uncovered before returning it.
Storing and reheating
Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for 3 months. Warm slowly in a covered saucepan, adding water to restore the sauce.
Kitchen gear
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Croatian Goulash: FAQ
Can I make it ahead?
Yes. The sauce thickens overnight and the flavors settle together. Reheat gently so the tender beef stays in pieces.
Why is the beef still tough?
Chuck needs more time at a gentle simmer. Keep the pot covered and continue cooking until a fork slips into the meat easily.
How do I store and reheat Croatian Goulash?
Refrigerate for up to 3 days or freeze for 3 months. Warm slowly in a covered saucepan, adding water to restore the sauce.
How long does Croatian Goulash take?
About 3 hr 40 min in total: 1 hr 15 min prep and 2 hr 25 min cooking.
What do I need to make Croatian Goulash?
The key ingredients are beef chuck, onions, carrots, garlic, bay leaves and red wine, plus pantry basics.
Any tips for Croatian Goulash?
If the meat is tender but the sauce is thin, lift out the beef and reduce the liquid uncovered before returning it.
