Hearty Hungarian Szegedin Goulash: A Traditional Pork and Sauerkraut Stew

The Szegedin Goulash, also known as Székely Gulyás, is a traditional Hungarian dish that combines tender pork, tangy sauerkraut, and rich spices to create a comforting and hearty stew. This dish boasts layers of flavor, with the pork simmering to perfection in a paprika-infused broth, complemented by the distinctive taste of sauerkraut.

Ingredients:

– 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized cubes
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons pork lard or vegetable oil
– 2 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 ½ cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup chicken or beef broth
– 1 cup sour cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon flour (optional, for thickening)
– Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
– Crusty bread or dumplings, for serving

Instructions:

1. Heating the Lard: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the lard or vegetable oil over medium heat.

2. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Add Pork: Increase the heat to medium-high, add the pork cubes, and cook until browned on all sides.

4. Season and Sprinkle Paprika: Sprinkle in the sweet Hungarian paprika, caraway seeds, and add bay leaves. Stir to coat the meat and onions with the paprika.

5. Add Sauerkraut and Broth: Stir in the sauerkraut and pour in the chicken or beef broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer gently for about 1 hour, or until the pork is tender.

6. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the stew and season with salt and pepper as needed. If a thicker consistency is desired, stir in the optional teaspoon of flour.

7. Add Sour Cream: Remove the pot from heat, and stir in the sour cream until well combined.

8. Garnish and Serve: Ladle the Szegedin Goulash into bowls, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve with crusty bread or dumplings on the side.

Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this traditional Hungarian Szegedin Goulash!