Experience the heartwarming flavors of Hungarian Goulash, a traditional paprika-spiced beef stew that’s both comforting and flavorful. Slow-cooked with tender beef, onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes, this rich and savory dish is perfect for cold nights or cozy family dinners. Served over egg noodles or paired with crusty bread, Hungarian Goulash is a satisfying meal that will bring a taste of Eastern Europe right into your kitchen.
Ingredients
For the Goulash:
- 1 1/2 pounds beef chuck, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 large onions, chopped
- 2 bell peppers (red or green), chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon caraway seeds (optional)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For Serving:
- Egg noodles or crusty bread
- Sour cream (optional, for garnish)
Directions
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Season the beef cubes with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot. Brown the beef on all sides, about 6-8 minutes, and remove from the pot. Set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add the chopped onions and cook for 5 minutes until softened. Add the bell peppers and garlic, and cook for another 3 minutes.
- Add Spices: Stir in the sweet paprika, smoked paprika (if using), and caraway seeds. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, to release the flavors of the spices.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and bring to a boil.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded. Stir occasionally, and add more broth if needed to keep the stew from drying out.
- Finish and Serve: Once the beef is tender, remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve the goulash over egg noodles or with crusty bread, and garnish with fresh parsley and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
How to Prepare
Hungarian Goulash is all about depth of flavor, which comes from the generous use of paprika and the slow cooking process that tenderizes the beef. The caraway seeds add a subtle, earthy flavor, while the tomatoes and bell peppers bring sweetness to balance the spice. Serve the goulash with egg noodles for a hearty meal, or enjoy it with crusty bread to soak up every last bit of the delicious sauce.
Preparation Time
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 2 hours
Total time: About 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings
This recipe serves 4-6 people.
FAQs
- Can I use other cuts of beef? Yes, beef stew meat or any cut suitable for slow cooking will work well.
- Is it possible to make this in a slow cooker? Absolutely! After browning the beef and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
- Can I make this ahead of time? Yes, Hungarian Goulash tastes even better the next day, so it’s great for meal prep!
- What can I serve with goulash? Besides egg noodles and bread, you can also serve it with mashed potatoes or rice for a hearty alternative.