Traditional Hungarian Goulash Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that warms the soul, perfect for those chilly days when you crave something comforting. This recipe embraces its Hungarian roots with a blend of spices and tender beef, making each spoonful a delight.
Beef chuck is the star of this dish, providing tender, juicy bites after a long simmer. Vegetable oil helps in browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables, enhancing the flavors. You'll need onions and garlic for a savory base that complements the beef beautifully. The essential spice, sweet paprika, gives the soup its distinctive Hungarian flavor and vibrant color. Caraway seeds add a subtle, earthy note that rounds out the dish. Tomato paste thickens the soup slightly, adding a touch of acidity and depth. Bell pepper, carrots, and potatoes not only add texture but also soak up the delicious broth, making each bite a burst of flavor. Lastly, beef broth ties everything together, creating a rich and hearty soup.
Serve this goulash soup with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. A light cucumber salad with vinegar dressing can offer a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup. If you want to keep it traditional, a dollop of sour cream on top can add a creamy richness.
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it's shimmering, toss in the onions and garlic. Sauté them until they're translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. This creates a fragrant base for the soup. Next, add the beef cubes. Let them brown on all sides; this step locks in the juices and adds a depth of flavor to the meat.
Once the beef is browned, sprinkle in the sweet paprika and caraway seeds, then mix in the tomato paste. Stir everything well to ensure that the beef is coated with this lovely mix of spices. Now, it's time to add the bell pepper, carrots, and potatoes. These vegetables will absorb the flavorful broth as they cook.
Pour in the beef broth and bring the pot to a boil. Once it's bubbling away, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow cooking process ensures that the beef becomes tender and the flavors meld beautifully. Before serving, give it a taste and season with salt and pepper to your liking.
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