Name: Instant Pot Czech Goulash Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Cuisine: Czech
Ingredients: 3 lbs stewed beef, cut into ½ inch cubes; 2 large white onions, chopped; 2 tablespoons garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1/3 cup Hungarian paprika; 4 cups beef broth (may need more); 2 teaspoons salt; 2 tablespoons cornstarch; Few tablespoons water (for cornstarch slurry)

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Introduction

Instant Pot Czech Goulash is a hearty, comforting stew rich with tender beef and flavorful Hungarian paprika. This easy one-pot meal brings traditional Eastern European flavors to your table in a fraction of the time.

A white plate holds two main layers: on the left side, there are five pieces of light beige, soft-textured, round bread slices neatly stacked; on the right side, there is a rich, thick, dark reddish-brown sauce covering and surrounding several chunks of tender brown meat with a glossy surface. The plate is placed on a white marbled texture surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 large white onions, chopped
3 lbs stewed beef, cut into ½ inch cubes
⅓ cup Hungarian paprika
2 tablespoons garlic, minced
2 tablespoons cornstarch
4 cups beef broth (may need more)
2 teaspoons salt

Instructions

Step 1: Add olive oil to the Instant Pot and set it to sauté mode. Add the beef and onions, cooking until the beef is seared and the onions have softened and released their juices.
Step 2: Stir in the minced garlic, Hungarian paprika, and salt until well combined.
Step 3: Pour in the beef broth until the meat is just covered or barely visible beneath the liquid.
Step 4: Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and set it to high pressure for 30 minutes. When the cooking time ends, perform a quick pressure release.
Step 5: Mix the cornstarch with a few tablespoons of water until smooth. Pour this mixture into the Instant Pot, then turn on sauté mode again and bring the stew to a boil. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens, then turn off sauté and let it rest for a few minutes.
Step 6: Serve the goulash hot, ideally with dumplings for a classic meal.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, use a mix of sweet and smoked paprika.
You can substitute beef broth with vegetable broth for a lighter option.
Add sliced bell peppers or mushrooms for extra vegetables and texture.
If you prefer a thicker stew, increase the cornstarch slightly or cook a few minutes longer on sauté mode.

Storage

Store leftover goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, to prevent the sauce from sticking or drying out. This dish also freezes well for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

A white plate with decorative edges holds a dish with two main layers: on one side, several pale yellow, thick, soft slices of dumpling arranged in a stacked row; on the other side, a rich, dark reddish-brown thick sauce with large tender chunks of meat sitting in it, covering half of the plate, all set on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make this goulash without an Instant Pot?

Yes, you can make it on the stovetop. Brown the beef and onions in a large pot, add the remaining ingredients, then simmer covered on low heat for 2-3 hours until the meat is tender. Thicken the sauce with cornstarch as described.

What should I serve with Czech goulash?

Traditional accompaniments include bread dumplings, boiled potatoes, or egg noodles. A simple side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad also pairs well.