Best American Hamburger Goulash Soup Recipes

American hamburger goulash soup recipes are a classic dish in American cuisine. Goulash soup is a hearty dish that has Eastern European roots, but the American version combines the traditional flavors of goulash with the quintessential American food - the hamburger. This dish is perfect for cold winter nights and is sure to fill you up.

History

Goulash soup has been a popular dish in Eastern Europe since the 9th century. The soup was originally made with beef, onions, paprika, and other spices. In the 19th and 20th centuries, goulash soup became a staple in Hungarian cuisine and was often served with bread or noodles. When Eastern Europeans immigrated to the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, they brought their traditional goulash recipes with them. Over time, the American version of goulash has evolved, with the addition of ground beef, diced tomatoes, and other ingredients.

Ingredients

The ingredients for American hamburger goulash soup recipes vary, but typically include:

Ground beef

Ground beef is a staple in American cooking and is a great addition to goulash soup. The beef adds flavor and protein, making the soup a filling and satisfying meal.

Onion

Onions are a key ingredient in goulash soup and provide a sweet, savory flavor. They are typically diced and sautéed before being added to the soup.

Bell peppers

Bell peppers add a pop of color to goulash soup and provide a crunchy texture. They are typically sliced and sautéed with the onions.

Diced tomatoes

Diced tomatoes add acidity to goulash soup and help to thicken the broth. They are typically canned and added to the soup along with their juices.

Pasta

Pasta is a common addition to American hamburger goulash soup recipes. The pasta is typically elbow macaroni or another small pasta shape and is boiled separately before being added to the soup.

Beef broth

Beef broth is the base for goulash soup and provides a rich flavor. Some recipes call for the addition of tomato sauce, which adds a tangy flavor to the soup.

Spices

The spices used in goulash soup vary, but typically include paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Some recipes also call for the addition of bay leaves, thyme, or other herbs.

Preparation

To make American hamburger goulash soup, start by browning the ground beef in a large pot or Dutch oven. Remove the beef from the pot and set it aside. Add the onions and bell peppers to the pot and sauté until they are softened. Add the tomatoes, beef broth, and spices to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the soup for 20-30 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions and drain it. Add the pasta and browned ground beef to the pot and stir to combine. Serve the soup hot, garnished with parsley or grated cheese if desired.

Conclusion

American hamburger goulash soup recipes are a delicious and comforting dish that combines the flavors of Eastern Europe with classic American ingredients. This soup is easy to make and perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether you're looking for a hearty dinner or a cozy lunch, American hamburger goulash soup is sure to satisfy.

American hamburger goulash soup is a tasty and popular recipe among Americans. It's a simple and easy way to quickly prepare a warm and filling meal that satisfies the taste buds. The beauty of this recipe is that you can easily adjust the ingredients based on your taste buds and preferences. In this article, we'll discuss valuable tips for making the perfect American hamburger goulash soup that is hearty, delicious, and satisfying.

Tip #1: Choosing the Right Meat

One of the key ingredients in American hamburger goulash soup is meat, and choosing the right meat is crucial to get the right texture and flavor. Ground beef is an obvious choice for this recipe, but you can also use ground turkey, chicken, or pork depending on your preference. For the best results, use lean ground meat, which is lower in fat and calories, making it a healthier option. Besides, it’s important to brown the meat properly before adding other ingredients to enhance its flavor.

Tip #2: Using the Right Spices

Spices play a crucial role in flavoring American hamburger goulash soup. The right combination of spices can bring out a rich and savory taste that tantalizes your taste buds. Common spices for this soup include garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and onion powder. Feel free to experiment with other spices that you like and find complementing flavors to enhance the taste. However, be careful not to overpower the recipe with too many spices, as it can ruin the balance of flavors.

Tip #3: Choosing the Right Vegetables

Vegetables are an essential part of American hamburger goulash soup, and the right combination can make all the difference. Common vegetables for this soup include onions, bell peppers, carrots, and tomatoes. You can also add other vegetables like celery, corn, zucchini, and sliced mushrooms to enhance the dish's flavor and nutritional value. When choosing vegetables, make sure they are fresh and of high quality to ensure that they are not wilted or overripe.

Tip #4: Using the Right Type of Pasta

Pasta is a key ingredient in American hamburger goulash soup because it helps to thicken and fill the soup. The pasta choice depends on the individual's preference, but the most commonly used pasta for this recipe is elbow macaroni, which is large enough to hold its shape and size while cooking in the soup. Other pasta options include egg noodles, rotini, or penne, but be sure to avoid very thin noodles as they will cook too fast and may become mushy.

Tip #5: Adding Tomato Sauce and Broth

Tomato sauce and broth are necessary ingredients in American hamburger goulash soup as they form the base of the soup. You can use either beef or chicken broth depending on your preference. Tomato sauce adds a rich flavor to the soup, but you can also use canned diced tomatoes or fresh tomatoes. If you prefer a creamier version, you can add a dollop of sour cream before serving.

Tip #6: Cooking the Soup at the Right Temperature

Cooking the American hamburger goulash soup at the correct temperature is crucial to achieving the desired results. First, sear the meat at high heat to give it a crispy, brown texture. Then, reduce the heat to medium and add the vegetables and spices until they are cooked through. Finally, add the tomato sauce and broth, and increase the heat to high to bring the soup to a boil before reducing the heat to low for the noodles to cook through.

Tip #7: Adjusting the Consistency and Flavor

The consistency and flavor of American hamburger goulash soup are entirely up to the individual's preference. Some people like their soup thicker while others prefer a thinner consistency. If you want a thicker soup, add more pasta or cook it for longer. If you prefer a thinner soup, add more broth or water. Also, feel free to adjust the spices and salt to your taste.

Tip #8: Garnishing the Soup

Garnishing the American hamburger goulash soup is not necessary, but it adds an extra touch to the dish. Sprinkle some fresh parsley or cilantro over the soup for added flavor and presentation. You can also add a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese to the soup to add creaminess and richness.

Conclusion

Making the perfect American hamburger goulash soup requires a little bit of experimentation, but once you get the ingredients and cooking process down, it becomes a simple and easy-to-make recipe that everyone in the family will enjoy. Choosing the right meat, veggies, spices, pasta, and broth, as well as cooking and adjusting the consistency and flavors according to your taste buds, will lead to a delicious, nutritious, and hearty meal that is perfect for cold winter evenings or as leftovers for lunch the following day.