Savory Mushroom Goulash is a hearty, comforting dish that brings the warmth of Eastern European flavors to your dining table. It's a vegetarian delight that's perfect for those chilly evenings when you crave something rich and satisfying.
The foundation of this dish is the olive oil, which provides a silky base for sautéing our aromatics. Onion and garlic are the classic duo that start off many savory recipes, adding a sweet and pungent depth. The star of the show, cremini mushrooms, brings an earthy richness that absorbs all the flavors beautifully. Red and green bell peppers add a splash of color and a sweet, mild crunch. Tomato paste gives the dish a concentrated sweetness, while the combination of paprika and smoked paprika infuses a smoky, peppery warmth. Dried thyme adds an herbal note, complementing the other spices. Fire-roasted tomatoes contribute a subtle smokiness and acidity, balanced by the savory vegetable broth. Finally, fresh parsley brightens up the dish with a hint of freshness.
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in your chopped onion and let it sauté for about 5 minutes until it turns soft and translucent. Once your kitchen is filled with that comforting onion aroma, add the garlic and cook for another minute until it's just fragrant.
Next, add the cremini mushrooms. Let them cook for about 8-10 minutes. You'll notice the mushrooms releasing their juices and starting to brown, which is exactly what you want. Toss in the chopped red and green bell peppers and give it another 3 minutes, just enough to soften them slightly.
Now, stir in the tomato paste, paprika, smoked paprika, and dried thyme. Cook everything together for about 2 minutes, allowing the spices to marry with the vegetables. Pour in the can of fire-roasted tomatoes and your vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 15 minutes, giving the flavors a chance to meld beautifully. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
While your goulash is simmering, cook the egg noodles according to the package instructions. Once done, drain them and set them aside. To serve, spoon the mushroom goulash over the egg noodles and garnish generously with fresh parsley.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette, cutting through the richness of the goulash. A slice of crusty bread on the side is perfect for soaking up the flavorful sauce.
Share