Hungarian Goulash is a hearty stew filled with tender beef, sweet paprika, and fresh vegetables. It’s perfect for warming you up on chilly days!
Every bite is like a hug in a bowl! I love serving it with crusty bread to soak up all that delicious sauce. Plus, it’s super easy to make in one pot! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Beef Chuck: This cut is perfect for goulash as it becomes tender when slow-cooked. If you’re looking for a lighter version, you can use chicken thighs instead.
Sweet Hungarian Paprika: This is the star of the dish, providing depth and flavor. If you can’t find it, regular paprika works, but might not have the same sweetness. Avoid substituting with hot paprika unless you want more heat!
Caroaway Seeds: These add a unique flavor but can be skipped if you don’t have them. I personally enjoy the subtle taste they bring, so I recommend trying them at least once!
Vegetables: Carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers are common in goulash. Feel free to swap in your favorites, like parsnips or green beans, for a personal twist!
How Do I Get the Beef Just Right?
Browning the beef properly is key to great goulash. Start by ensuring your pot is hot enough; this helps create that nice brown crust. Here are some steps:
- Cut beef into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking.
- Avoid overcrowding the pot; cook in batches if needed to prevent steaming.
- Let the beef sit undisturbed for a few minutes before turning to develop a good sear.
- Once nice and browned, remember to stir in the paprika off the heat to retain its flavor.
Following these tips will give you flavorful, tender beef that is the heart of your goulash!
How to Make Hungarian Goulash
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or lard
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth)
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1 large red bell pepper, chopped
- 2 medium tomatoes, peeled and chopped (or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes)
- 4 cups beef broth or water
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
- Sour cream, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting Hungarian Goulash will take you about 15 minutes of prep time and approximately 1.5 to 2 hours of cooking time. Just let it simmer gently on the stovetop while the flavors meld together, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready to warm your heart and home!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Onions:
In a large heavy pot, heat the oil or lard over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and cook them until they are softened and translucent, stirring occasionally—this should take about 7-10 minutes. Your kitchen will soon smell amazing!
2. Add Garlic:
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute, stirring until fragrant. This will give your goulash a wonderful depth of flavor.
3. Brown the Beef:
Next, add the beef cubes to the pot. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes until they’ve browned on all sides. This step is important for flavor!
4. Stir in the Paprika:
Remove the pot from the heat and mix in the sweet Hungarian paprika (plus the smoked paprika and caraway seeds if using). Stirring off the heat will help keep the paprika from burning and make it even tastier.
5. Add the Vegetables:
Return the pot to medium heat and throw in the chopped carrots, potatoes, red bell pepper, and chopped tomatoes. Stir everything together to combine.
6. Pour in the Broth:
Now, pour in the beef broth or water. Make sure there’s enough liquid to completely cover all the ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer the Goulash:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and the vegetables are cooked through. You can check occasionally and give it a little stir!
8. Adjust Seasoning:
Before serving, taste your goulash and adjust the seasoning if needed. A little extra salt or pepper can make all the difference!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your goulash hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Don’t forget a dollop of sour cream on top if you like! Enjoy it with some crusty bread or traditional noodles—you’ll love each comforting bite!
This classic Hungarian Goulash is truly comfort in a bowl, rich with paprika and tender beef, perfect for chilly days! Happy cooking!
Can I Use Different Cuts of Beef?
Yes! While beef chuck is ideal due to its tenderness after slow cooking, you can also use brisket, round, or even lamb for a different flavor. Just ensure the meat is cut into similar sizes for even cooking!
What Can I Substitute for Beef Broth?
You can use chicken broth for a lighter taste, or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. If you’re using water, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to enhance the flavor.
Can I Freeze Leftover Goulash?
Absolutely! Let the goulash cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove or in the microwave.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes along with the paprika. You can also serve it with a spicy hot sauce on the side for those who want to kick it up a notch!
