EAST GOULASH RECIPE AND HOW TO MAKE IT

2 small onions 1/4 cup smoked bacon or pancetta 1/2 cup olive oil 2 sticks of celery 1 cup of chopped carrots 4-5 lb cubbed beef 1 small can diced tomatoes Sal and pepper per taste 1 1/2 tabelspoon flour 1 1/2 teaspoon Hungarian paprika 3-4 bay leaves 1 cup red wine 1 cup beef broth Parsley for decoration Vlada explores one of the most cherished aspects of Serbian culture: the way people stay connected through food, music, family gatherings, and a deep sense of community. Bringing this story from abroad, Vlada hopes to inspire more of these traditions in the United States and encourage stronger connections between individuals, families, and communities while embracing a more natural and intentional way of life. Her journey begins in Serbia, along the banks of the Drina River near her childhood home, where generations have gathered to share stories, celebrate milestones, and prepare meals together. There, Vlada learns the art of making traditional goulash over an open fire, surrounded by friends, family, music, and the timeless beauty of nature. Returning home to California, Vlada recreates this beloved recipe using fresh ingredients harvested from her own garden, demonstrating how traditional foods can be adapted with locally grown produce while preserving their cultural roots and rich flavors. The episode also opens a broader conversation about the importance of healthy food choices, particularly the role of nutrient-dense ingredients and healthy fats in supporting overall wellness. Through partnerships with local American farmers, Vlada highlights the importance of preserving small-scale agriculture and supporting those who are committed to producing quality, locally grown food. By connecting old-world traditions with modern American life, this episode celebrates the power of food to bring people together, strengthen communities, support local farmers, and inspire a healthier, more connected way of living.