Hearty Hungarian Goulash with Delicious Homemade Dumplings

Hungarian Goulash is a rich and flavorful stew, brimming with tender chunks of beef, sweet onions, and spicy paprika. It is traditionally served with a side of homemade dumplings, making it a comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. This recipe combines robust flavors and a warm, hearty texture that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 3 medium onions, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups beef broth
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dumplings:

• 1 cup all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 egg

Instructions:

1. **Heat** the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.

2. In the same pot, add the diced onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

3. **Return** the beef to the pot and stir in the sweet Hungarian paprika, tomato paste, caraway seeds, and dried marjoram. Cook for a couple of minutes, until fragrant.

4. **Pour** in the beef broth, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Add the bay leaf and bring to a boil.

5. **Reduce** the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.

6. **Add** the diced potatoes and sliced carrots to the pot. Cook for another 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

7. While the stew is simmering, prepare the dumplings. In a bowl, mix the flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the melted butter, milk, and egg. Combine the wet and dry ingredients, stirring just until combined.

8. **Drop** spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the simmering stew. Cover the pot and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.

9. **Season** the goulash with salt and pepper to taste.

10. Serve the Hungarian Goulash hot, with a generous scoop of dumplings on the side. Enjoy your hearty and comforting meal!