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

Scale

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)

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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