Published November 1, 2008. From Cook's Illustrated.
We wanted our Hungarian goulash recipe to have tender braised beef packed with paprika flavor. Pureeing the paprika with roasted red peppers and tomato paste imparted vibrant flavor without the grittiness we had gotten when using larger quantities of the spice. Skipping the sear when cooking the meat proved crucial in our goulash recipe, because we found that searing competed with the paprika’s flavor.
Do not substitute hot, half-sharp, or smoked Spanish paprika for the sweet paprika in the stew (see our recommended brands at right), as they will compromise the flavor of the dish. Since paprika is vital to this recipe, it is best to use a fresh container. We prefer chuck-eye roast, but any boneless roast from the chuck will work. Cook the stew in a Dutch oven with a tight-fitting lid. (Alternatively, to ensure a tight seal, place a sheet of foil over the pot before adding the lid.) The stew can be cooled, covered tightly, and refrigerated for up to 2 days; wait to add the optional sour cream until after reheating. Before reheating, skim the hardened fat from the surface and add enough water to the stew to thin it slightly. Serve the stew over boiled potatoes or egg noodles.
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