There’s nothing quite like the cozy warmth of a hearty dish simmering on the stove, especially when it’s a big pot of Vegan Goulash. Picture this: the comfort of elbow macaroni enveloped in a rich, savory sauce, fragrant with herbs and spices that dance around your kitchen like an old friend. After a long day, this dish doesn’t just satisfy your hunger; it revives your soul, inviting you to take a moment to relish in the simple joys of homemade cooking.
I discovered this delightful goulash recipe while on a mission to create meals that maximize flavor without the fuss. It’s made with Textured Vegetable Protein (TVP), which not only absorbs all those rich flavors but also adds a satisfying texture that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether you’re vegan, a busy professional tired of takeout, or someone looking to spice up meal rotation, this Vegan Goulash is your answer! Let’s dive into this uncomplicated yet delicious recipe that’s bound to impress even the most fervent meat-lovers at your table.
Why is Vegan Goulash a Must-Try?
Comforting and hearty, this Vegan Goulash is like a warm hug in a bowl. Flavor-packed ingredients, including rich marinara and aromatic herbs, create a delightful harmony that’ll make your taste buds dance. Time-saving and easy to prepare, this recipe can be on your table in just about 40 minutes. Versatile enough to accommodate a variety of dietary preferences, it’s a meal everyone can enjoy. Plus, it appeals to families and friends alike, making it a perfect crowd-pleaser for any occasion. For more heartwarming comfort dishes, check out our collection of easy vegan meals.
Vegan Goulash Ingredients
For the Goulash
- Textured Vegetable Protein (TVP) – 1 ½ cups (138g); a fantastic meat substitute that absorbs flavor beautifully.
- Vegan Beef Stock – 1 ½ cups (360ml); enhances the savory depth of your goulash, making it more comforting.
- Olive Oil – 2 Tablespoons; perfect for sautéing and adding healthy fats.
- Large Onion – 1, chopped; provides a sweet and aromatic base for your dish.
- Garlic – 2 cloves, crushed; adds a delicious punch of flavor.
- Dried Basil – ¼ teaspoon; a classic herb that complements the richness of the sauce.
- Dried Oregano – ¼ teaspoon; introduces a warm and slightly peppery note.
- Dried Parsley – ¼ teaspoon; brightens the flavors with its fresh taste.
- Dried Rosemary – ¼ teaspoon; offers a woodsy aroma that elevates your goulash.
- Dried Thyme – ¼ teaspoon; contributes an earthy note that perfectly balances the spices.
- Garlic Powder – ¼ teaspoon; for an extra layer of garlic goodness.
- Red Pepper Flakes – ⅛ teaspoon; adds a gentle kick of heat, perfect for those who enjoy some spice.
- Marinara Sauce – 2 cups (480ml); the heart of this dish, providing a robust flavor profile.
- Canned Chopped Tomatoes – 14 ounces (400g); adds natural sweetness and texture to your goulash.
- Tomato Paste – 3 Tablespoons; thickens the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor.
- Medium Green Bell Pepper – 1, chopped; adds sweetness and a pop of color.
- Bay Leaves – 2; infuse a subtle aroma while your goulash simmers.
For the Pasta
- Elbow Macaroni – 2 cups (8 ounces / 226g), uncooked; the classic shape that holds sauce wonderfully.
Final Touches
- Light Brown Sugar – 1 Tablespoon; balances the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully.
- Vegan Mozzarella – ½ cup, shredded (optional); melts deliciously on top for a cheesy finish.
- Sea Salt and Ground Black Pepper – to taste; essential seasonings to elevate all the flavors.
- Fresh Chopped Parsley – for serving; adds a burst of color and freshness at the end.
No need for a fuss; your Vegan Goulash is just a few ingredients away from being the star of your dinner table!
How to Make Vegan Goulash
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Prepare TVP: Add textured vegetable protein (TVP) to a mixing bowl. Pour boiling hot vegan beef stock over the top and stir well with a fork. Leave to sit for 5-10 minutes to absorb flavors.
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Sauté Onions: In a large pot on medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté the chopped onions until softened and translucent, about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
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Toast Spices: Add crushed garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, dried parsley, dried rosemary, dried thyme, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1 minute to lightly toast the spices, releasing their aromatic oils.
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Add TVP: Stir in the prepared TVP and sauté for about 10 minutes until lightly browned, which enhances its texture and flavor.
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Combine Ingredients: Add marinara sauce, vegan beef stock, canned chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, chopped green bell pepper, and bay leaves. Mix well to combine all ingredients evenly.
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Simmer: Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and let simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to blend flavors.
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Cook Macaroni: Add elbow macaroni (uncooked) to the pot and continue to simmer, covered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender, about 20 minutes.
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Finish Cooking: Remove and discard the bay leaves after it’s fully cooked to keep the dish clean and flavorful.
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Balance Flavor: Add light brown sugar to balance flavor and mix in thoroughly to enhance the overall taste.
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Melt Cheese: Turn off the heat and sprinkle vegan cheese on top. Cover with a lid and let it rest for 5 minutes for the cheese to melt beautifully.
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Season: Once the vegan cheese is melted, stir gently and add sea salt and ground black pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.
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Serve: Dish out the goulash topped with fresh chopped parsley for a finishing touch of color and freshness.
Optional: Pair with crusty bread for a delightful crunchy contrast.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Vegan Goulash Variations & Substitutions
Feel free to let your creativity shine by customizing this recipe to best suit your taste and dietary needs!
- Gluten-Free: Substitute elbow macaroni with gluten-free pasta for a deliciously accommodating option.
- Extra Veggies: Add chopped carrots, zucchini, or mushrooms to enhance texture and nutrition, infusing more flavor into each bite.
- Lentil Option: Replace TVP with cooked lentils for a different protein source that also packs a punch of earthy flavor.
- Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika for a delightful hint of smokiness that elevates the overall taste profile.
- Spicy Kick: Toss in extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you like your goulash with a bit of heat. It will awaken your senses!
- Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or basil in place of dried ones to bring a vibrant freshness to your dish.
- Creamy Twist: For a creamy goulash, stir in a splash of cashew cream or coconut milk right before serving for a rich, velvety finish.
- Cheese Lovers: Use a blend of vegan cheeses or top with nutritional yeast before serving for added richness and umami, making every bite unforgettable.
Before you know it, you’ll have a personalized Vegan Goulash that speaks your heart and satisfies your cravings!
How to Store and Freeze Vegan Goulash
Fridge: Store leftover Vegan Goulash in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of vegan stock if needed.
Freezer: Freeze Vegan Goulash in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. Add a bit of water or stock to restore creaminess.
Expert Tips for Vegan Goulash
- Perfect Texture: Soak the TVP in hot vegan beef stock for the right amount of time (5-10 minutes) to ensure it absorbs maximum flavor and has a delightful chew.
- Spice It Up: Don’t skip toasting the spices! Sautéing them releases their oils and aromas, enhancing the overall flavor of your Vegan Goulash.
- Adjust the Thickness: If your goulash is too thick, add a splash of water or extra vegan beef stock for a creamier consistency without losing flavor.
- Pasta Precautions: Stir the elbow macaroni occasionally while cooking to prevent it from sticking together, ensuring each bite is perfectly tender.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your goulash before serving. Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or a pinch of sugar if the tomatoes are too acidic.
- Cheese Melting Tip: Let the goulash sit covered for a few minutes after turning off the heat; this allows the vegan cheese to melt nicely for that creamy finish.
What to Serve with Vegan Goulash?
There’s nothing quite like the comforting aroma of homemade food, inviting friends and family to gather around the table.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, it complements the rich sauce and adds a delightful crunch to each bite.
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Garden Salad: A fresh mix of greens with a tangy vinaigrette balances the hearty flavors and adds a refreshing element to your meal.
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Garlic Bread: Crispy and buttery, garlic bread is the ultimate side for scooping up every morsel of goulash.
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Steamed Broccoli: The bright green florets add a nutritious crunch, and the mild flavor pairs perfectly with the savory goulash.
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Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery, this classic side absorbs the goulash’s sauce beautifully for an irresistible combination of flavors.
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Sweet Corn: The natural sweetness of corn contrasts beautifully with the savory goulash, adding pops of color and texture to your plate.
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Vegan Parmesan: Sprinkling vegan parmesan over the goulash adds a cheesy depth that enhances the overall indulgence of this dish.
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Red Wine: A glass of smooth red wine elevates the dining experience, bringing out the rich flavors and deep notes of the goulash.
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Chocolate Cake: For dessert, a slice of chocolate cake offers a sweet ending, bringing warmth and joy to the meal.
With these delicious pairings, your Vegan Goulash will become an unforgettable meal that everyone will treasure!
Make Ahead Options
These Vegan Goulash preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the textured vegetable protein (TVP) by soaking it in hot vegan beef stock up to 24 hours in advance, keeping it refrigerated to maintain its flavor. Additionally, chop your onions, garlic, and bell pepper ahead of time and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply sauté the veggies, add the pre-soaked TVP, and continue with the steps as usual. This way, your Vegan Goulash will be just as delicious, saving you precious time and creating a warm, comforting meal for your family!
Goulash with Textured Vegetable Protein Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right Textured Vegetable Protein (TVP)?
Absolutely! When selecting TVP, look for the chunky variety over the granular one for a more satisfying texture. The chunkier pieces will absorb flavors better during cooking. Also, check the packaging for freshness; avoid any that show dark spots or unusual odors.
How should I store leftover Vegan Goulash?
Very simple! You can store leftover Vegan Goulash in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of vegan stock or water to restore its creamy goodness.
Can I freeze Vegan Goulash, and how do I do it?
Absolutely! To freeze, allow the goulash to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat slowly on the stovetop, stirring in a bit of stock to revive the texture.
What if my goulash is too thick?
If you find your Vegan Goulash has become too thick, it’s an easy fix! Add a bit of warm vegan beef stock or water incrementally while stirring until you reach your desired consistency. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the flavors to maintain that hearty warmth!
Is this recipe suitable for someone with dietary allergies?
Yes, but it’s always best to double-check ingredients! This Vegan Goulash is free from dairy and meat, making it suitable for vegans, but be mindful of specific allergies like gluten found in some pasta. You can substitute with gluten-free pasta to accommodate those needs.
How do I know when the elbow macaroni is perfectly cooked?
To achieve the perfect bite, you should cook the elbow macaroni until al dente, about 20 minutes. It’s important to stir frequently, ensuring it doesn’t stick together. Taste it towards the end of cooking—when it’s tender but still has a slight chew, it’s ready to go!
Hearty Vegan Goulash: Comfort Food Your Family Will Love
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Add textured vegetable protein (TVP) to a mixing bowl. Pour boiling hot vegan beef stock over the top and stir well with a fork. Leave to sit for 5-10 minutes to absorb flavors.
- In a large pot on medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté the chopped onions until softened and translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- Add crushed garlic, dried basil, dried oregano, dried parsley, dried rosemary, dried thyme, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes. Sauté for 1 minute to lightly toast the spices.
- Stir in the prepared TVP and sauté for about 10 minutes until lightly browned.
- Add marinara sauce, vegan beef stock, canned chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, chopped green bell pepper, and bay leaves. Mix well to combine.
- Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low and cover. Let simmer for 15 minutes.
- Add elbow macaroni to the pot and continue to simmer, covered, stirring occasionally, until the pasta is tender, about 20 minutes.
- Remove and discard the bay leaves after it’s fully cooked.
- Add light brown sugar to balance flavor and mix in thoroughly.
- Turn off the heat and sprinkle vegan cheese on top. Cover with a lid and let it rest for 5 minutes for the cheese to melt.
- Once the vegan cheese is melted, stir gently and add sea salt and ground black pepper to taste.
- Dish out the goulash topped with fresh chopped parsley.