Traditional Hungarian Goulash – A Rich and Hearty Comfort Stew
Experience the authentic flavors of Hungary with this classic Hungarian Goulash. Tender chunks of beef are slowly simmered with onions, paprika, tomatoes, and vegetables, creating a deeply flavorful and comforting stew. Perfect for chilly evenings, this rustic dish is hearty, satisfying, and packed with traditional Eastern European charm.
📝 Ingredients
1 kg (2.2 lbs) beef chuck, cut into cubes
3 large onions, finely chopped
3 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika
2 tablespoons olive oil or lard
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tomatoes, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
1.5 liters (6 cups) beef broth
2 bay leaves
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
Instructions
Heat the oil or lard in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium heat.
Add the onions and cook slowly until soft and golden, about 10 minutes.
Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the paprika to prevent burning.
Add the beef cubes and mix well to coat them with the onion-paprika mixture.
Return the pot to the heat and cook for 5–7 minutes until the meat begins to brown.
Stir in the garlic, tomato paste, tomatoes, bell pepper, and caraway seeds.
Pour in the beef broth and add the bay leaves. Bring to a gentle boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Add the carrots and potatoes during the last 30–40 minutes of cooking.
Continue simmering until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are fully cooked.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread or traditional Hungarian dumplings.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious goulash with fresh bread, buttered noodles, or a side of dumplings to soak up the rich paprika-infused broth. A dollop of sour cream on top adds a wonderful creamy finish.
Slow-cooked to perfection, this Traditional Hungarian Goulash is the ultimate comfort food—rich, aromatic, and bursting with authentic homemade flavor in every spoonful!
As always, save this recipe and share it with friends and family who love hearty homemade meals!
