Hungarian Gulyás Soup: A Hearty Delight Steeped in Tradition and Flavor

Hungarian Gulyás, often referred to as Hungarian Goulash, is a deeply traditional and satisfyingly hearty soup that has been a staple of Central European cuisine for centuries. This dish is known for its rich, robust flavors derived from a combination of beef, paprika, and an assortment of vegetables. The Hungarian Gulyás Soup not only warms the body but also ties you to a rich cultural heritage every time you take a bite.

Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 lb (450g) of beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons of sweet Hungarian paprika
– 1 teaspoon of caraway seeds
– 1 teaspoon of marjoram
– 1 bay leaf
– 4 cups of beef broth
– 2 large carrots, sliced
– 1 parsnip, sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 green bell pepper, chopped
– 2 tomatoes, finely chopped or 1 can (14 oz) of diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until they turn translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic and continue to cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the beef cubes to the pot. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beef is browned on all sides.
4. Sprinkle the paprika over the beef and stir well to coat the meat evenly. This is essential for the dish’s characteristic flavor and color.
5. Add the caraway seeds, marjoram, and bay leaf. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil.
6. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender. Stir occasionally.
7. Add the carrots, parsnip, potatoes, green bell pepper, and tomatoes to the pot. Stir well to combine.
8. Simmer the soup for an additional 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.