Why You’ll Love This Hungarian Goulash
- Great for Leftovers: Tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
- Authentic Flavor: Made with sweet Hungarian paprika for that classic taste.
- Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with tender beef and wholesome vegetables.
- Perfect for All Seasons: A warm dish for winter or a robust meal for cooler summer nights.
Tools You’ll Need
- Cutting board and knife
- Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
Hungarian Goulash
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Description
There’s something wonderfully hearty and comforting about a bowl of Hungarian Goulash. This traditional dish combines tender beef, sweet paprika, and robust vegetables to create a rich, flavorful stew that’s perfect for any time of year. Serve it with fresh bread or egg noodles for a meal that warms both body and soul.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 4 cups (1 liter) beef broth
- 2 cups (480ml) water
- 3 large carrots, sliced
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Beef
- Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper. Sear them in batches until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In the same pot, reduce the heat to medium and add the onions. Sauté until golden and softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic, sweet paprika, smoked paprika, and tomato paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Simmer the Stew
- Return the beef to the pot and add the beef broth, water, caraway seeds, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 ½ hours, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Add the Vegetables
- Add the carrots, potatoes, and red bell pepper to the pot. Simmer uncovered for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the stew thickens slightly.
- Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
- Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the goulash into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
- Use Quality Paprika: Sweet Hungarian paprika is key to the authentic flavor. Avoid using generic paprika.
- Don’t Rush the Beef: Let the beef simmer low and slow for maximum tenderness.
- Customize Vegetables: Add parsnips or celery root for more depth of flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Cuisine: American
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Sear the beef and sauté the onions first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.
Q2: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
A: Substitute the beef with mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Q3: What can I use if I can’t find Hungarian paprika?
A: Spanish sweet paprika is a good substitute, but the flavor won’t be exactly the same.
Conclusion: A Timeless Comfort Dish
Hungarian Goulash is a comforting classic that brings bold flavors and hearty ingredients to your table. It’s perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or anytime you crave a rich, satisfying meal.
Did you try this recipe? Share your photos and tag us with #HungarianGoulashLove!
Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 350
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 4g
Dig into a bowl of Hungarian Goulash and savor the flavors of this beloved traditional dish!
