Hungarian Goulash

Hungarian Goulash is a rich and comforting beef stew famous for its deep paprika flavor, tender meat, and hearty vegetables. This traditional dish from Hungary is slow-cooked until perfectly tender and is often served with bread, noodles, or mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal.

---

Prep Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 2 hours
• Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
• Servings: 6

---

Equipment

• Large Dutch oven or heavy pot
• Wooden spoon
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

---

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into cubes
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 large onions, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp Hungarian paprika
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional)
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 bay leaf

---

Ingredient Notes

• Beef Chuck: Becomes tender and flavorful during slow cooking.
• Hungarian Paprika: The key ingredient that gives authentic goulash its signature flavor.
• Caraway Seeds: Optional, but traditional in many recipes.
• Potatoes: Help thicken the stew naturally.

---

Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Season beef with salt and black pepper.
3. Brown the beef in batches, then remove and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Onions

1. In the same pot, add onions and cook until soft and golden.
2. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

Step 3: Add Seasonings

1. Remove the pot briefly from heat.
2. Stir in Hungarian paprika, smoked paprika, and caraway seeds.
3. Add tomato paste and mix well.

Step 4: Simmer

1. Return beef to the pot.
2. Pour in beef broth and add bay leaf.
3. Bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Cover and cook for 1 1/2 hours.

Step 5: Add Vegetables

1. Stir in carrots, potatoes, and bell pepper.
2. Continue simmering for 30 minutes or until vegetables and beef are tender.

Step 6: Serve

1. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
2. Serve warm with crusty bread or egg noodles.

---

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving Approx.)

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 32g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 620mg

---

Tips

• Do not burn the paprika, as it can become bitter.
• Slow simmering creates the most tender beef.
• Make it a day ahead for even deeper flavor.
• Add more broth if you prefer a soupier goulash.

---

Variations

• Spicy Goulash: Add hot Hungarian paprika or chili flakes.
• Pork Goulash: Replace beef with pork shoulder.
• Vegetarian Version: Use mushrooms and beans instead of meat.
• Creamy Style: Stir in sour cream before serving.