Magical Yule Ball Goulash Inspired by Harry Potter

What’s Up, Hungry People

It’s Harry Potter week in the Starving Chef’s kitchen! From first year feasts all the way to the Triwizard Tournament, there’s a little bit of everything for every witch and wizard on my magical table.

The Yule Ball is a Triwizard Tournament tradition. It celebrates three magical schools uniting together: Hogwarts, Beauxbatons, and Durmstrang.

Each school is not only represented by their champions but also the food from each of their accompanying regions. While Hogwarts admits students from the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Scotland, Beauxbatons is open to students from central Europe, and Durmstrang takes students in from west and northern Europe.

At the Yule Ball, Harry dines on goulash, a Hungarian dish that we can only assume was there to make the Durmstrang students feel at home. With all its hearty, homestyle flavors, it’s hard not to feel warm and cozy after eating this dish.

At the Yule Ball, Harry and Ron practically ignore their dates while moping over Ginny and Hermione’s dates instead.

Perhaps if they would have just tucked in, sucked it up, and danced with Padma and Parvati, then they too would have had a decent time. Regardless, the rest of the student body definitely seemed to have a good time – partly due to the delicious food served at the ball!

Here’s What You Need

• Steak or beef tips: Adds rich, meaty flavor and protein.
• Egg noodles: Absorbs the flavors and provides a comforting base.
• Beef broth: Deepens the beef flavor.
• Chicken broth: Adds a lighter, balanced flavor.
• Potatoes: Adds heartiness and texture.
• Onions: Provides sweetness and depth.
• Red bell pepper: Adds color and a mild sweetness.
• Carrots: Contributes sweetness and a bit of crunch.
• Button mushrooms: Adds earthiness and umami.
• Celery: Adds crunch and a subtle peppery flavor.
• Flour: Thickens the goulash.
• Diced tomatoes: Adds acidity and sweetness.
• Hungarian paprika: Provides a sweet, smoky flavor.
• Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor.
• Garlic powder: Adds a robust, aromatic flavor.
• Onion powder: Enhances the onion flavor.
• Olive oil: Used for sautéing and adding richness.
• Sherry or white wine: Adds depth and a touch of acidity.
• Salt and pepper: Balances and enhances all the flavors.

Let’s Cook

Wash and chop the potatoes and mushrooms. Dice the red pepper, celery, onions, and carrots. Cut the steak into bite-sized pieces.

Sear the Steak

In a Dutch oven over medium-high heat, heat one tablespoon of olive oil until shimmering. Sear the steak for 1-2 minutes until the pieces are seared and beginning to brown. It’s okay if they’re still pink inside! Remove the steak from the Dutch oven and set aside.

Cook the Vegetables

Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the Dutch oven. Toss in the chopped potatoes and cook for 3-5 minutes until they start to get a touch of brown sear and are turning translucent. Stir in the onions and sauté for another 3-5 minutes. Then add the red pepper, carrot, celery, and mushrooms. Cook for 2-3 more minutes until the mushrooms start to release their moisture and the carrots and peppers start to soften.

Build the Flavor Base

Scatter the flour, paprika, salt, pepper, onion powder, and garlic powder over the vegetables. Stir to coat the veggies, then pour in the diced tomatoes. Stir in the tomato paste. Bring the temperature up until the liquid begins to simmer, then reduce the heat back to medium. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.

Bring It All Together

Pour in the chicken broth and beef broth. Bring the goulash to a rolling boil, then add the egg noodles. Toss the seared steak into the pot and cover. Cook for 8-10 minutes until the egg noodles are cooked and tender. Serve with a helping of crusty bread

Additional Tips for a Perfect Yule Ball Goulash

• Choosing the right steak: Use a cut like sirloin or tenderloin for the best texture and flavor. These cuts are tender and will cook quickly.
• Don’t overcook the steak: It’s essential to only sear the steak initially, as it will continue to cook once added back into the pot. This keeps it tender and juicy.
• Balancing the flavors: Taste as you go and adjust the salt and pepper accordingly. You want a harmonious blend where no single spice overwhelms the dish.
• Noodle texture: Cook the egg noodles until just tender. Overcooking can lead to mushy noodles that fall apart.
• Add a splash of sherry: If you prefer a richer, more complex flavor, add a splash of sherry or white wine right before serving.

At the Yule Ball, Harry and Ron might have been preoccupied with their dates, but the rest of the Hogwarts crew was busy enjoying a feast that would make any witch or wizard feel right at home. This Yule Ball goulash, inspired by the cozy, hearty flavors of a traditional Hungarian dish, is sure to bring warmth to your table.

Whether you’re moping about a crush or just craving something hearty, this dish has got you covered. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and apparate yourself to the magical halls of Hogwarts.

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