Discover the rich and comforting flavors of Hungarian Goulash with this classic recipe. This hearty stew is a staple in Hungarian cuisine, known for its tender beef, aromatic spices, and savory sauce. Follow this guide to create a delicious pot of Hungarian Goulash that will warm your soul.
Ingredients for Hungarian Goulash
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 large onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups diced tomatoes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
How to Make Hungarian Goulash
Step 1: Brown the Beef
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches and brown them on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
- In the same pot, add chopped onions and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Spices and Tomato Paste
- Stir in sweet paprika, caraway seeds, dried thyme, and bay leaves. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.
- Add tomato paste and cook, stirring constantly, for another minute.
Step 4: Simmer with Broth and Tomatoes
- Return the browned beef cubes to the pot. Pour in beef broth and diced tomatoes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender.
Step 5: Add Potatoes and Finish Cooking
- Add diced potatoes to the pot. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for an additional 30 minutes or until the potatoes are tender and the sauce has thickened.
Step 6: Serve
- Remove bay leaves. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
About the Main Ingredients
Beef Chuck
Beef chuck is ideal for Hungarian Goulash because it becomes tender and flavorful when slow-cooked. It’s cut into cubes to ensure even cooking and to absorb the rich flavors of the spices and broth.
Paprika and Caraway Seeds
Sweet paprika is a key spice in Hungarian cuisine, providing color and flavor to the goulash. Caraway seeds add a subtle earthy and slightly bitter note, enhancing the overall depth of the dish.
Potatoes
Potatoes are added towards the end of cooking to thicken the stew and provide a hearty texture. They absorb the flavors of the goulash while adding a comforting element to the dish.
Enjoy this authentic Hungarian Goulash recipe as a satisfying main course, perfect for chilly evenings or any time you crave a comforting meal.
