Hungarian Goulash: A Hearty and Comforting Stew Rich in Flavor
Hungarian Goulash is a traditional Eastern European dish that’s a savory, hearty stew loaded with tender chunks of beef, vegetables, and a flavorful paprika-spiced broth. It is often served with bread, potatoes, or noodles, making it a versatile and filling meal perfect for any occasion. The key to an authentic Hungarian Goulash is the use of high-quality paprika, which adds depth, warmth, and a beautiful red hue to the dish.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tablespoons Hungarian sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 3 large carrots, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 6 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
- Add the chopped onions to the same pot and cook until they become translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Return the beef to the pot and add the paprika and caraway seeds. Stir well to coat the beef evenly with the spices.
- Add the tomato paste and chopped bell pepper, and stir everything together. Cook for about 2 minutes.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender.
- Add the sliced carrots and cubed potatoes to the pot. Continue to simmer for another 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Season the goulash with salt and pepper to taste. If the stew is too thick, you can add a bit more beef broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Remove the pot from the heat and let the goulash rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley and serve hot, accompanied by bread, potatoes, or noodles.
Enjoy your comforting and flavorful Hungarian Goulash!