Oh my goodness, let me tell you about Hungarian goulash! This dish is like a warm hug on a chilly day, bringing together tender chunks of beef, vibrant veggies, and a symphony of spices that will make your taste buds sing. Originating from Hungary, this traditional stew has been a beloved comfort food for generations, often enjoyed at family gatherings and festive occasions. What makes my recipe stand out is the balance of sweet paprika and caraway seeds, which infuse the dish with an irresistible depth of flavor. Plus, it’s super easy to make! Trust me, once you try this hearty goulash, it’ll become a staple in your kitchen too. Let’s dive into the deliciousness!
Ingredients for Hungarian Goulash Recipe
Gathering fresh ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious Hungarian goulash:
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cubed – This cut is perfect for stewing, becoming tender and flavorful as it cooks.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil – For sautéing those aromatics to bring out their rich flavors.
- 1 large onion, chopped – Sweet and savory, onions are key to the base of this dish.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – A must for that aromatic kick!
- 2 tablespoons sweet paprika – This is where the magic happens; it gives the goulash its beautiful color and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds – Just a hint of these will add a lovely earthy note.
- 1 bell pepper, chopped – Adds sweetness and a pop of color.
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced – Fresh tomatoes add brightness and balance.
- 4 cups beef broth – This will create a rich, hearty base for your stew.
- 2 medium potatoes, diced – They’ll soak up all those delicious flavors and add heartiness.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t forget the seasoning; it’s essential to bring all the flavors together!
Make sure to have everything prepped before you start cooking. Trust me, it makes the process so much smoother and more enjoyable!
How to Prepare Hungarian Goulash Recipe
Now, let’s get cooking! I promise, once you start, the aromas will fill your kitchen and have everyone asking what’s for dinner. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a cozy pot of goulash in no time!
Step 1 – Sauté the Aromatics
First things first, heat the 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and fragrant. This is where the magic begins—those sweet, savory notes are going to set the stage for your goulash!
Step 2 – Brown the Beef
Next up, add the 2 pounds of cubed beef chuck to the pot. Make sure to brown the beef on all sides, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Don’t rush this step! Browning the meat adds a ton of flavor to the stew, creating those delicious caramelized bits that you’ll love. Use a wooden spoon to stir occasionally, ensuring each piece gets evenly cooked.
Step 3 – Add Spices and Vegetables
Once the beef is beautifully browned, it’s time to sprinkle in the 2 tablespoons of sweet paprika and the teaspoon of caraway seeds. Stir them in for about a minute to release their fragrant oils—trust me, your kitchen will smell heavenly! Then, add the chopped bell pepper and diced tomatoes, cooking them together for an additional 5 minutes. This step really layers the flavors, making your goulash rich and delicious.
Step 4 – Simmer the Goulash
Now for the hearty part—pour in the 4 cups of beef broth and bring everything to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1.5 hours. This slow cooking is key, as it allows the beef to become tender and soak up all those wonderful flavors.
Step 5 – Add Potatoes and Final Seasoning
After 1.5 hours, add the 2 diced potatoes to the pot and stir gently. Cover and let it cook for another 30 minutes, until the potatoes are fork-tender. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking before serving! You want every bite to be perfectly seasoned, bursting with flavor.
Tips for Success with Hungarian Goulash Recipe
To elevate your Hungarian goulash to the next level, here are some of my favorite tips! First, don’t skimp on the paprika—using high-quality sweet paprika makes a world of difference in flavor. If you like a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper for a kick!
Also, let the goulash sit for a while after cooking; the flavors deepen and meld together beautifully, making it even more delicious. If you have time, making it a day ahead is a game-changer!
Lastly, serve it up with a generous slice of crusty bread to soak up that rich sauce. Trust me, you’ll want every last drop. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Nutritional Information Disclaimer
Just a quick note on the nutritional information: the values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you choose to use. Everyone’s kitchen is a little different, and that’s what makes cooking fun! So while I provide estimates for calories, fats, and other nutrients, remember that they’re just guidelines. Feel free to adjust based on your preferences and what you have on hand. Happy cooking!
FAQ about Hungarian Goulash Recipe
What can I serve with Hungarian goulash?
Hungarian goulash is perfect on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping or a fresh salad to brighten up the meal. You could also serve it alongside some creamy mashed potatoes or even a side of egg noodles for a heartier option!
Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it a day ahead can enhance the flavors even more as they have time to meld together. Just store it in the refrigerator after it cools down, and reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy it.
What is the best way to store leftovers?
To keep your goulash fresh, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months—just let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to dig in, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Why You’ll Love This Hungarian Goulash Recipe
- Flavorful: Each spoonful is packed with the rich, deep flavors of paprika and tender beef.
- Hearty: This goulash is a complete meal in a bowl, filled with meat and vegetables that satisfy your hunger.
- Gluten-Free: Perfect for those with dietary restrictions, this dish is naturally gluten-free!
- Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep, you can have a delicious meal on the table without stress.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: The flavors only get better when made in advance, making it perfect for meal prep!
- Comforting: A warm bowl of goulash is the ultimate comfort food for chilly evenings or family gatherings.
Additional Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving Hungarian goulash, the right accompaniments can really elevate the meal experience! Here are some of my favorite pairings:
- Crusty Bread: You can’t go wrong with a warm, crusty loaf! It’s perfect for dunking into the rich goulash sauce, soaking up all those delicious flavors.
- Fresh Salad: A light, crisp salad made with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew.
- Mashed Potatoes: For a truly comforting meal, serve the goulash over creamy mashed potatoes. They complement the stew perfectly and make for a filling dish.
- Egg Noodles: If you’re in the mood for something different, try it with egg noodles! They’re a delightful way to enjoy the goulash and add a nice texture.
- Pickles: A side of pickles can add a delightful crunch and acidity that cuts through the richness of the goulash.
These options not only enhance the flavors but also make your meal feel extra special. Enjoy mixing and matching to find your perfect pairing!
Imprimer
Hungarian Goulash Recipe: 5 Steps for Comforting Bliss
- Temps Total: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Rendement: 6 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Sans Gluten
Description
A traditional Hungarian stew made with meat and vegetables.
Ingrédients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cubed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onions and garlic, sauté until soft.
- Add the beef, brown on all sides.
- Stir in paprika and caraway seeds.
- Add bell pepper and tomatoes, cook for 5 minutes.
- Pour in beef broth, bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1.5 hours.
- Add potatoes, cook for an additional 30 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Serve with crusty bread.
- Can be made a day ahead for better flavor.
- Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Temps De Préparation: 20 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 2 hours
- Catégorie: Main Course
- Méthode: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Hungarian
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sucre: 4g
- De Sodium: 600mg
- La graisse: 20g
- Graisses Saturées: 5g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 15g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 35g
- La fibre: 5g
- La protéine: 30g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 80mg
Mots-clés: Hungarian goulash recipe
