Hungarian Goulash Recipe ππΊ
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Description:
This Hungarian Goulash recipe is a cherished family secret, passed down from my mother with a few tweaks of my own. I’ve swapped water for rich beef broth and traded Spanish paprika for the authentic flavor of Hungarian paprika, which truly elevates this dish. While Spanish paprika can be used as a substitute, the distinctive taste of Hungarian paprika adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat. For a variation, consider using tender stewing veal. It’s a hearty stew that’s perfect for cozy weeknight dinners, boasting flavors that transport you to the heart of Europe.
Ingredients:
- 3 lbs stewing beef, cubed
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 1/2 tbsp Hungarian paprika
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 3 tbsp oil
- 1/4 cup water
- 1/4 – 1/3 cup sour cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Brown the Beef: Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the cubed stewing beef and sautΓ© until beautifully browned on all sides. This step seals in the juices and enhances the flavor. π₯© |
| 2 | Cook the Onions: Remove the browned meat from the pan with a slotted spoon and set it aside. In the same pot, add the finely chopped onions. Cook them until they become slightly softened and develop a rich, caramelized color. This adds a sweet depth to the dish. π§ |
| 3 | Combine Beef and Onions: Return the browned beef to the pot with the onions. Sprinkle the mixture generously with the Hungarian paprika, salt, and pepper. This is where the magic of the Hungarian flavors begins to infuse into the dish. π¨ |
| 4 | Add Beef Broth: Pour in the beef broth, stirring to combine all the flavors. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid, allowing the goulash to simmer gently. This slow cooking process tenderizes the beef beautifully. π² |
| 5 | Simmer Until Tender: Let the goulash simmer for about 1 1/2 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender and the flavors have melded together into a rich, aromatic stew. Take a moment to inhale the wonderful scents wafting from your pot. π |
| 6 | Thicken the Sauce: In a small bowl, mix the all-purpose flour with water to create a smooth paste. Carefully stir this paste into the simmering goulash, allowing the sauce to thicken and develop a luxurious texture. This step adds a velvety richness to the dish. π₯£ |
| 7 | Add Sour Cream: Once the sauce has thickened to your liking, stir in the sour cream. This adds a delightful tanginess and creaminess to the goulash. Let it heat through gently, but do not allow it to boil. The sour cream gives the dish its signature Hungarian character. π₯ |
| 8 | Serve and Enjoy: Your Hungarian Goulash is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it piping hot over a bed of fluffy potato dumplings or buttery egg noodles. The tender beef, rich sauce, and aromatic spices create a comforting meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings. Garnish with a dollop of extra sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for an extra touch of flavor and elegance. Enjoy the taste of Hungary right in your own home! ππΊπ½οΈ |
Recipe Notes:
- Variation: For a lighter option, you can use lean stewing veal instead of beef. The veal will still absorb all the delicious flavors of the paprika and broth.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors often deepen and meld together even more, making the leftovers even more delicious.
- Freezing: This goulash freezes exceptionally well. Simply cool it completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stove.
- Accompaniments: This goulash pairs beautifully with a side of crusty bread, steamed vegetables, or a crisp green salad. A glass of robust red wine or a chilled beer complements the rich flavors of the dish perfectly.
This Hungarian Goulash recipe is a true labor of love, with each step adding layers of flavor and depth to the final dish. Whether you’re reminiscing about childhood meals or discovering the magic of Hungarian cuisine for the first time, this hearty stew is sure to become a family favorite. Gather around the table, share stories, and savor every spoonful of this comforting, soul-warming goulash. π₯β¨ Enjoy!
