Traditional Hungarian Goulash Recipe

Hungarian Goulash, or “Gulyás,” is a hearty and flavorful stew that has been a staple in Hungarian kitchens for centuries. This dish, rich with tender beef, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic spices, is a true comfort food. Follow this traditional recipe to create a warm, satisfying meal perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons lard or vegetable oil
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 2 pounds (900g) beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds, crushed
• 1 large tomato, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 5 cups (1.2 liters) beef broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base: Heat the lard or oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until golden and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Brown the Beef: Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the beef cubes to the pot and brown them on all sides, ensuring they develop a rich, caramelized surface. This step enhances the flavor of the stew.
3. Add Spices: Stir in the minced garlic, sweet paprika, smoked paprika (if using), and crushed caraway seeds. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent the paprika from burning.
4. Incorporate Vegetables: Add the chopped tomato, carrots, red bell pepper, and potatoes to the pot. Stir to combine the ingredients evenly.
5. Simmer the Stew: Pour in the beef broth, ensuring the ingredients are fully submerged. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
6. Cook Until Tender: Allow the goulash to simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
7. Final Adjustments: Taste the goulash and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed. If the stew is too thick, add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
8. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the goulash into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread or traditional Hungarian egg noodles (nokedli) to soak up the delicious broth.

Tips for the Perfect Goulash:

• Use high-quality Hungarian paprika for authentic flavor.
• Allow the stew to rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to let the flavors fully develop.
• For a richer taste, you can add a splash of red wine during the simmering process.

Enjoy your homemade Hungarian Goulash, a timeless dish that brings the essence of Hungary to your table!