Hungarian Goulash is a warm and hearty stew made with tender beef, potatoes, and lots of spices, including paprika. It’s like a cozy blanket in a bowl, perfect for chilly days!
This dish is great for sharing with family or friends. Honestly, I can’t help but love how the flavors mix together. A piece of bread on the side makes it even better! 🍞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Vegetable Oil or Lard: Both are great for cooking. If you want to make it a little healthier, olive oil is a good substitute, though it has a lighter flavor.
Beef Chuck: This cut is perfect because it gets really tender when cooked slowly. You can also use stew meat or brisket if you can’t find chuck.
Sweet Hungarian Paprika: This is key for the flavor. If you can’t find it, you could use smoked paprika for a different twist. Just remember it might change the taste a bit!
Carrots and Potatoes: Feel free to add other veggies like parsnips or celery if you like. They all add great flavor!
Sour Cream: This is a delicious topping. If you want a dairy-free option, try using a dollop of coconut cream or a dairy-free yogurt instead.
How Do I Brown Meat Without Overcooking?
Browning the beef properly gives the goulash a rich flavor. Here’s how to do it right:
- Make sure your pot is hot before adding the oil. This helps sear the meat quickly.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot with beef. Cook it in batches if needed, as too many pieces at once will steam instead of brown.
- Let the beef sit without stirring for a minute or two to get a good sear, then turn to brown all sides.
Once done, you’ll create a deeper flavor in your goulash that makes it even more delicious!
Hungarian Goulash Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or lard
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 bell pepper, diced (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Sour cream (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Hungarian Goulash will take about 20 minutes to prepare and approximately 2.5 hours to cook. It’s a hearty meal, perfect for a cozy evening or to enjoy with family and friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Onions:
Heat the oil or lard in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook, stirring frequently, until they are soft and translucent—this should take about 8-10 minutes.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another minute until it becomes fragrant. This will enhance the flavors of your goulash!
3. Brown the Beef:
Now, add the beef cubes to the pot. Brown them on all sides, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Browning helps lock in the flavors.
4. Add the Spices:
Remove the pot from the heat temporarily. Stir in the sweet Hungarian paprika and caraway seeds, ensuring the beef and onions are well coated. Make sure not to burn the paprika, as it can turn bitter.
5. Combine the Liquids:
Return the pot to the heat and add the tomato paste. Stir everything together well. Gradually pour in the beef broth until it just covers the meat. This is where your goulash will gain its rich flavor!
6. Bring to a Simmer:
Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then lower it to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours—this is when the beef becomes tender and delicious.
7. Add the Vegetables:
After the beef is tender, add the diced carrots, potatoes, and the bell pepper, if you’re using it. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Uncover the pot and let it simmer for another 30 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the sauce thickens.
8. Taste and Adjust:
Once everything is cooked through, taste the goulash and adjust the seasoning as necessary. You want that perfect blend of flavors!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your hot goulash garnished with fresh parsley and a generous dollop of sour cream. It pairs beautifully with rustic bread, making it a complete and comforting meal!
Now sit back, enjoy, and savor the rich, comforting flavors of your homemade Hungarian Goulash!
Can I Use a Different Cut of Meat?
Yes! While beef chuck is preferred for its tenderness, you can also use stew meat, brisket, or even bison for a different flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if you’re using a leaner cut.
What if I Can’t Find Sweet Hungarian Paprika?
If sweet Hungarian paprika isn’t available, you can substitute it with smoked paprika for a slightly different flavor profile. You may also combine sweet and smoked paprika for a unique twist!
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! After browning the meat and onions, transfer everything to a slow cooker and add the broth and seasonings. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. Add the vegetables halfway through cooking for perfect tenderness!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover goulash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. You may want to add a splash of broth if it thickens too much!
