Hungarian Goulash (Gulyás) – A Traditional Hungarian Stew 🇭🇺🍲

Hungarian Goulash (Gulyás) is a rich, hearty beef stew flavored with sweet paprika, onions, and peppers. It’s a national dish of Hungary, enjoyed as a comforting and deeply flavorful meal, perfect for colder days. Unlike a thick stew, authentic Hungarian goulash has a slightly soupy consistency, making it ideal to serve with bread or dumplings.

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Ingredients (Serves 6-8)

Main Ingredients:

• 2 lbs (900 g) beef chuck or shank, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons lard or vegetable oil
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons Hungarian sweet paprika (essential for authentic flavor)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds, crushed
• 1 large tomato, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 1-2 bell peppers (red or green), sliced
• 1½ quarts (1.5 L) beef broth or water
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional Additions:

• 1 teaspoon hot paprika or chili flakes (for spice)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (for extra richness)
• 1 cup diced celery root or parsnips
• Handful of fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Meat

1. Heat lard or oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and cook until golden brown, stirring occasionally (10-12 minutes).
3. Remove the pot from heat and stir in paprika (this prevents it from burning and turning bitter).
4. Add beef cubes, return to heat, and brown on all sides (5-7 minutes).

Step 2: Build the Flavor

5. Stir in garlic, caraway seeds, and tomato. Cook for 2 minutes.
6. Pour in beef broth or water, cover, and let simmer on low heat for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

7. Add carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Simmer for another 30-40 minutes, or until the beef is tender and vegetables are soft.

Step 4: Final Touches

9. Taste and adjust seasoning. If desired, add hot paprika for extra spice.
10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.