Description
Immerse yourself in the rich, heartwarming flavors of Hungary with this classic Hungarian Goulash recipe. Simmered to perfection with tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and the signature taste of sweet paprika, this dish is a soul-satisfying tradition perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 1/4 lb bacon
- 2 lbs chuck roast, cut into 2-inch cubes
- 1/4 cup flour (for dredging)
- 2 large yellow onions, diced
- 3 large bell peppers (assorted colors), chopped
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 plum tomatoes, chopped
- 1 tsp caraway seeds
- 5 tbsp Hungarian sweet paprika
- 2 bay leaves
- 5 cups beef stock
- 3 medium Yukon Gold potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tbsp flat-leaf parsley, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Cook the Bacon
- Heat a large, heavy pot over medium heat.
- Add the bacon and cook until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. Prepare the Beef
- Pat the beef cubes dry and season with salt and pepper.
- Dredge the beef in flour, shaking off any excess.
- Sear the beef in the bacon fat, cooking until browned on all sides (5–7 minutes). Remove and set aside with the bacon.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
- Add the diced onions to the pot and sauté until translucent (about 8 minutes).
- Stir in the chopped bell peppers and carrots, cooking for another 10 minutes.
4. Add Aromatics
- Add the minced garlic, cooking until fragrant (about 2 minutes).
- Stir in the caraway seeds and chopped tomatoes, cooking briefly to develop flavors.
5. Combine Ingredients
- Return the bacon and beef to the pot.
- Pour in the beef stock, add bay leaves and paprika, and bring to a boil.
6. Simmer
- Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, partially covering the pot with a lid. Cook for 90 minutes.
- Remove the lid and continue simmering for another 30 minutes.
7. Add the Potatoes
- Add the cubed potatoes and simmer until fork-tender (20–30 minutes).
8. Adjust and Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and additional paprika if desired.
- For a thicker consistency, mash some potatoes against the pot’s side and stir.
Garnish with parsley and serve hot with crusty bread
Notes
- Use Hungarian sweet paprika for an authentic flavor.
- Goulash tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Hungarian