Name: Hungarian Goulash (beef stew-soup)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 140 min
Total time: 155 min
Ingredients: 1 kg beef chuck, cut in 3.5cm cubes (Note 1); 1 3/4 tsp cooking salt / kosher salt; 1 tsp black pepper; 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 2 tbsp unsalted butter (30g); 2 pieces brown onions, cut into 1cm squares; 5 cloves garlic, finely minced; 2 pieces capsicum/bell peppers (1 red + 1 yellow), cut into 2 cm squares; 2 pieces tomatoes, cut into 8 wedges; 1/4 cup Hungarian-style paprika (sub ordinary paprika, Note 2); 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional, Note 3); 1 leaf bay leaf; 1 litre beef stock/broth, low-sodium (4 cups); 2 pieces carrots, peeled, cut in quarters lengthwise then into 1cm pieces; 2 pieces potatoes, cut into 1.2cm cubes; 1 tbsp finely chopped parsley (optional garnish)

Introduction to Hungarian Goulash

What is Hungarian Goulash and why it’s loved?

Hungarian Goulash is not just another beef stew; it's a comforting symphony of flavor that has warmed hearts and homes for centuries. Originating from Hungary, this dish blends tender chunks of beef with a robust broth seasoned generously with paprika, onions, garlic, and vibrant bell peppers. The result is a rich, aromatic stew that dances between the realms of stew and soup—a perfect balance that makes your taste buds sing.

One reason people adore Hungarian Goulash is its versatility. It’s hearty enough to be a standalone dish but seamless alongside crusty bread or cheese bread for dunking. Did you know that this dish is considered Hungary’s national dish? It’s a staple in most Hungarian homes, often used to bring families together around the dinner table.

Additionally, it’s incredibly simple to prepare, making it a fantastic go-to for young professionals who want wholesome food without the fuss. Not to mention, the Hungarian Goulash recipe can easily be customized with your favorite vegetables or spices for a personal touch. If you want to dive deeper into the joy of cooking this iconic dish, consult resources like Saveur for various tips and traditional methods.

Brace yourself for a culinary adventure that brings the taste of Hungary right into your kitchen!

Ingredients for Hungarian Goulash

Essential ingredients

To create a classic Hungarian Goulash, you’ll need a handful of core ingredients that bring authentic flavor and warmth to this comforting dish:

1 kg beef chuck: Cut into 3.5cm (1.5") cubes for tender bites.
Onions and Garlic: 2 brown onions (1cm squares) and 5 minced garlic cloves for aromatic depth.
Bell Peppers: 2 capsicum (1 red, 1 yellow) cut into 2cm (0.8”) squares for a sweet crunch.
Paprika: ¼ cup of Hungarian-style paprika is key for that signature flavor.
Beef Stock: 1 litre (4 cups) of low-sodium beef stock creates a rich base.
Vegetables: 2 carrots (quartered) and 2 potatoes (cut into 1.2cm cubes) add heartiness.

Optional ingredients for extra flavor

Want to elevate your Goulash? Consider adding these optional ingredients for an extra layer of taste:

Caraway Seeds: 1 teaspoon can enhance the dish with a unique, earthy flavor.
Fresh Parsley: A tablespoon of finely chopped parsley makes a lovely garnish.
Bay Leaf: For a subtle aromatic hint, don’t forget this essential herb!

With these ingredients, you're well on your way to a delicious bowl of Hungarian Goulash. Embrace the process, and enjoy every spoonful of this delightful dish.

Preparing Hungarian Goulash

When it comes to comfort food, nothing quite compares to the cozy embrace of Hungarian goulash. This robust dish is rich in flavor and tradition, making it a perfect recipe for gatherings or a quiet night in. Let’s walk through the steps to create this luscious beef stew-soup that’s bound to impress.

Gather Your Ingredients

Start by assembling all your ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

Beef: 1 kg of beef chuck, cut into 3.5 cm cubes.
Vegetables: 2 brown onions, 5 minced garlic cloves, 2 bell peppers, 2 tomatoes, 2 carrots, and 2 potatoes.
Spices: Don’t forget ¼ cup of Hungarian paprika, black pepper, caraway seeds, and a bay leaf.
Liquid: 1 liter of beef stock.
Extras: Olive oil, unsalted butter, and optional parsley for garnish.

Having everything ready makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable. You can check out more tips on ingredient preparation here.

Sauté the Onions and Garlic

In a large oven-proof Dutch oven, heat your olive oil and melt the butter over high heat. Add the chopped onions and cook them for about 6 minutes until they’re lightly golden. This caramelization adds a depth of flavor that forms the base of your goulash. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another minute, allowing that delightful aroma to fill your kitchen.

Brown the Beef

Now, toss in the seasoned beef cubes. Stir them around until they change from red to brown, which usually takes about 2 minutes. This step is crucial as it seals in those wonderful juices and flavors, and yes, it’s perfectly normal that the beef won’t turn a golden brown.

Add in the Vegetables

Next, it’s time to introduce the vibrant colors of your vegetables. Add the bell peppers and tomatoes, stirring them for about 3 minutes until the tomatoes start breaking down. The mixture should look lively and inviting—your Hungarian goulash is taking shape!

Infuse with Spices and Broth

Sprinkle in your paprika, caraway seeds, and drop in the bay leaf. Stir everything for around 30 seconds, letting those spices bloom before pouring in the beef stock. Bring it to a simmer, cover it with a lid, and transfer it into the oven for 1.5 hours of slow cooking.

Slow Cook to Perfection

This step is where the magic happens. The long, slow cook allows the beef to become incredibly tender and flavorful. You can use this time to prep any side dishes or simply get cozy with a book.

Incorporate the Potatoes and Carrots

After the first cooking phase, check your beef. It should be tender but not fall-apart yet. Now it's time to add in the quartered carrots and diced potatoes. Stir them in, cover again, and let it cook for another 30 minutes. At this point, your Hungarian goulash should be nearly ready!

Final Touches Before Serving

Once the cooking is complete, ladle the goulash into bowls. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top adds a pop of color and freshness. Serve it with some crusty bread—maybe even cheese bread if you're feeling indulgent!

With these steps, you’re well on your way to creating a satisfying and delicious Hungarian goulash. Happy cooking! For more tips on perfecting your stews, check out Serious Eats for deep dives into flavor profiles and techniques.

Variations on Hungarian Goulash

Vegetarian Goulash Options

If you’re looking for a vegetarian twist on traditional Hungarian goulash, simply swap the beef for hearty vegetables like mushrooms, lentils, or eggplant. Enhance the flavor with smoked paprika and cayenne for a comforting, yet plant-based dish that still captures the essence of the classic recipe.

Mushrooms: Use a mix of shiitake and portobello for depth.
Lentils: These pack in protein and hold up well in stews.
Spices: Don’t skip on the garlic and onions to build a robust base.

Spicy Hungarian Goulash

For those who love a kick, turn up the heat in your Hungarian goulash. Add diced jalapeños, or replace regular sweet paprika with hot Hungarian paprika. This version will not only warm your palate but also awaken your senses, making it perfect for a chilly evening.

Fresh herbs: Cilantro or fresh chili can elevate your dish even further.
Chili flakes: Sprinkle some on top for added spice as you serve.

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so tailor it to your tastes and enjoy a delicious bowl any time!

Cooking Tips and Notes for Hungarian Goulash

Using Quality Beef

Choosing the right beef is crucial for a flavorful Hungarian Goulash. Opt for beef chuck for its balance of tenderness and flavor. The marbling in chuck adds richness to the dish as it slow-cooks to perfection, becoming tender and succulent. Look for beef that has a bright red color with some marbling for the best results.

Perfecting Paprika Usage

Paprika is the star of your Hungarian Goulash—so quality matters! Go for Hungarian-style paprika for its rich sweetness and depth. Add it after sautéing your veggies to fully awaken its flavor, stirring it in for about 30 seconds before adding the broth. This ensures the spices release their aromatic oils, giving your dish that authentic Hungarian flair. Looking for more tips on using spices effectively? Check out the Spice House for expert advice.

Serving Suggestions for Hungarian Goulash

Ideal sides and accompaniments

When it comes to serving your Hungarian Goulash, the options are deliciously abundant! This dish pairs wonderfully with:

Crusty Bread: Whether it's a baguette or sourdough, fresh bread allows you to soak up the flavorful broth.
Cheese Bread: For something extra indulgent, consider cheese-stuffed bread for delightful dunking.
Mashed Potatoes: Fluffy mashed potatoes complement the rich flavors while providing a comforting base.

Creative ways to serve

Feeling adventurous? Here are some creative ideas for serving your Hungarian Goulash:

In a Bread Bowl: Serve the goulash in hollowed-out hearty bread rolls for a rustic touch.
Topped with Crème Fraîche: A dollop of crème fraîche or sour cream adds a tangy contrast to the dish's spices.
As a Pasta Sauce: Instead of the traditional stew approach, try it over pasta for a Hungarian twist on classic spaghetti.

These ideas not only enhance the meal but also make it visually appealing. Enjoy!

Time Breakdown for Hungarian Goulash

Preparation Time

Get your veggies and beef ready in just 15 minutes. Quick chopping and seasoning can make this step efficient and enjoyable!

Cooking Time

Let your goulash simmer and develop those amazing flavors for around 2 hours and 20 minutes. Trust us, the wait is more than worthwhile!

Total Time

From start to delicious finish, you're looking at a total of approximately 2 hours and 35 minutes. Perfect for a cozy weekend meal with friends or family. Enjoy your cooking journey!

For more insight into the cooking methods and spices used, check out this culinary guide on Hungarian cuisine.

Nutritional Facts for Hungarian Goulash

Calories

A hearty serving of Hungarian Goulash packs about 574 calories, making it a satisfying meal for lunch or dinner.

Protein

With tender chunks of beef, each bowl provides a delicious content of protein, around 48 grams. This makes it a great choice for muscle repair and energy.

Sodium

Keep in mind that this dish has approximately 800 mg of sodium per serving, depending on the broth used. Opting for a low-sodium beef stock can help you control your intake.

For more detailed nutritional information, check resources from Healthline or USDA FoodData Central.

FAQs about Hungarian Goulash

How can I make goulash thicker?
If you prefer your Hungarian Goulash with a thicker consistency, there are several ways to achieve this. You can let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer to reduce the liquid. Another option is to mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir it into the goulash. This will help thicken the broth without altering the flavor. Additionally, pureeing some of the vegetables before adding them back into the pot can create a beautifully rich texture.

Can I use different cuts of beef?
Absolutely! While chuck beef is traditional in Hungarian Goulash due to its tenderness when cooked low and slow, you can experiment with cuts like brisket or even sirloin. Just remember that tougher cuts might need a bit more cooking time to become tender.

What should I serve with goulash?
Hungarian Goulash is delightful when served with crusty bread for dunking. A side of creamy mashed potatoes or even egg noodles can enhance the meal, making it hearty and satisfying. Adding a refreshing cucumber salad can balance the rich flavors of the goulash beautifully.

For more tips on classic Hungarian dishes, check out this culinary guide.

Conclusion on Hungarian Goulash

In conclusion, Hungarian Goulash is a delightful blend of flavors that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. This robust stew-soup is perfect for sharing with friends and family, especially on chilly evenings. Serve it with crusty bread, and savor every mouthful of this hearty dish!