Traditional Goulash

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 2 hours
🍽 Serves: 6
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Goulash is a traditional Hungarian stew that's comforting and full of rich flavors. This recipe will guide you through creating a heartwarming meal perfect for cooler seasons. Dive into this hearty dish that brings warmth to every bite.

Ingredients for Traditional Goulash

Beef chuck is the star of this dish, offering a tender texture once slow-cooked. Vegetable oil helps sauté the aromatics, creating a flavorful base. Onions and garlic add depth and sweetness. Sweet paprika brings the signature Hungarian flavor and a mild heat. Caraway seeds add a unique, earthy taste that complements the beef. Tomato paste enriches the stew with a tangy, robust flavor. Beef broth and water create the perfect sauce consistency. Potatoes add heartiness and soak up the delicious flavors. Bell peppers provide a sweet contrast and vibrant color. Salt and pepper balance the flavors, and fresh parsley adds a bright, fresh finish.

Tips & Tricks

  • For deeper flavor, brown the beef in batches to avoid overcrowding the pot.
  • If you like a smokier taste, try using smoked paprika instead of sweet paprika.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to three days and taste even better as the flavors continue to meld.

Serving Suggestions

Goulash pairs wonderfully with crusty bread to soak up all the savory broth. For a lighter meal, serve it over a bed of rice or egg noodles to complement the hearty stew. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cut of beef?
Yes, beef brisket or short ribs work well too, but be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed for tenderness.
Can I make this dish in a slow cooker?
Absolutely. Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Yes, you can swap the beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and lentils, and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.

Traditional Goulash Recipe Walkthrough

Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the onions and garlic. Sauté them until they become soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. This base will infuse the entire dish with a rich aroma.

Next, add the beef chuck cubes to the pot. Let them brown on all sides, which should take about 10 minutes. Browning the beef seals in the juices and builds the foundation for the stew's deep flavor.

Stir in the sweet paprika, caraway seeds, and tomato paste. Let them cook for just a minute to awaken their flavors. Don't skip this step; it's critical for that authentic goulash taste.

Pour in the beef broth and water, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking allows the beef to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.

After the beef has cooked, add the potatoes and bell peppers. Cover again and cook for an additional 30 minutes until the vegetables are tender and flavorful.

Finally, season the goulash with salt and pepper to taste. Just before serving, sprinkle with parsley for a fresh finish. Serve hot and enjoy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Simple, straightforward steps make it accessible for any home cook.
  • Uses common ingredients that pack a punch of flavor.
  • Perfect for making ahead and tastes even better the next day.
  • Comforting and filling, ideal for family dinners or cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tbsp vegetable oil
2 onions, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp sweet paprika
1 tsp caraway seeds, crushed
1/4 cup tomato paste
1 cup beef broth
1 cup water
3 potatoes, peeled and diced
2 bell peppers, sliced
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp parsley, chopped

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until soft.
2. Add beef and brown on all sides.
3. Stir in paprika, caraway seeds, and tomato paste, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Add beef broth and water, bring to a simmer.
5. Cover and cook for 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
6. Add potatoes and bell peppers, cook for another 30 minutes until vegetables are tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper, garnish with parsley before serving.

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