Smoky Paprika Goulash

🕒 Prep: 20 min
🔥 Cook: 2 hours
🍽 Serves: 6
★★★★★
Be the First to Review!

If you're looking for a dish that brings warmth and depth to your table, look no further than this Smoky Paprika Goulash. It's a hearty, comforting meal with the perfect blend of spices, making it ideal for cozy evenings.

Ingredients for Smoky Paprika Goulash

Beef chuck is the star of the show, providing a rich, beefy flavor that stands up well to slow cooking. The marbling ensures each bite is tender and juicy. Olive oil is used to brown the beef and sauté the veggies, adding a subtle fruitiness. Onions and garlic form the aromatic base, enhancing the dish with their savory depth.

Bell peppers add a sweet, earthy note and a splash of color. Beef broth is essential for depth of flavor and moisture. Diced tomatoes contribute acidity and richness, helping to meld the other flavors together.

Sweet paprika offers a mild, sweet peppery flavor, while smoked paprika introduces a smoky, earthy element. Caraway seeds add a unique, slightly sweet and peppery note. Salt and black pepper balance and enhance all the flavors.

Flour helps to thicken the sauce, giving it a lovely, hearty consistency. Sour cream is stirred in at the end to add creaminess and a slight tang. Finally, parsley is used as a fresh garnish, adding a pop of color and flavor.

Tips & Tricks

  • Browning the beef in batches ensures an even sear and prevents steaming.
  • Use a heavy-bottomed pot to maintain an even temperature during the long simmer.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, let the goulash simmer uncovered for the last 15 minutes to reduce.
  • Adjust the smoked paprika to taste if you prefer a subtler smoky flavor.

Serving Suggestions

This goulash pairs beautifully with buttery egg noodles, crusty bread, or creamy mashed potatoes. For a lighter option, serve it over cauliflower rice or a simple green salad to balance the richness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, beef brisket or short ribs would also work well, providing they are cooked long enough to become tender.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped chili to the pot for added heat.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After browning the beef and sautéing the onions and garlic, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Smoky Paprika Goulash Recipe Walkthrough

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes, making sure not to crowd them, and brown on all sides. This step locks in the juices and builds a delicious crust. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.

In the same pot, add the onions and garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant, about 5 minutes. This will form the aromatic base for your goulash.

Next, stir in the sliced bell peppers and return the beef to the pot. Sprinkle with flour, and give everything a good stir to coat. This helps thicken the sauce as it cooks.

Add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, sweet paprika, smoked paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the flavors. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.

Just before serving, stir in the sour cream for a creamy finish and garnish with chopped parsley for a fresh touch.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Rich, smoky flavors thanks to a blend of sweet and smoked paprika.
  • Tender, melt-in-your-mouth beef that’s been simmered to perfection.
  • A one-pot wonder that minimizes cleanup.
  • Customizable warmth from the caraway seeds and spices.

Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tbsp olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 bell peppers, sliced
2 cups beef broth
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
3 tbsp sweet paprika
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp caraway seeds
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 tbsp flour
1/2 cup sour cream
1 tbsp chopped parsley for garnish

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add beef and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, add onions and garlic. Sauté until onions are translucent.
3. Stir in sliced bell peppers, return beef to the pot, and sprinkle with flour. Stir to coat.
4. Add beef broth, diced tomatoes, sweet paprika, smoked paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until beef is tender.
6. Before serving, stir in sour cream and garnish with chopped parsley.

Ratings and Comments

Thank you for your rating!