Easy & Flavorful Hungarian Goulash Recipe

BySoha

Few dishes capture the essence of Central European comfort food quite like Hungarian goulash. A soul-warming stew that blends tender beef, sweet paprika, and hearty vegetables, it’s rustic yet deeply layered in flavor. This is not just a meal,it’s a culinary journey through Hungarian tradition, adapted for your modern kitchen while preserving its authenticity.

hungarian goulash

Ingredients List

  • 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tbsp lard or vegetable oil
  • 2 large onions, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp Hungarian sweet paprika
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
  • 1 tsp caraway seeds, lightly crushed
  • 2 medium tomatoes, peeled and chopped (or 1 cup canned)
  • 2 medium bell peppers, diced
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 2 medium potatoes, cubed
  • 6 cups beef broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base

In a heavy pot or Dutch oven, heat the lard or oil. Add onions and cook slowly until golden and caramelized, about 10 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

Step 2: Layer the Paprika

Remove the pot briefly from heat, stir in both paprikas, and quickly mix to avoid burning. Return to heat and immediately add beef, coating it well with the spice-onion mixture.

Step 3: Build the Stew

Add crushed caraway seeds, tomatoes, and bell peppers. Stir well and let the flavors meld for a few minutes.

Step 4: Simmer the Meat

Pour in beef broth, add bay leaf, and season lightly with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover partially and cook for 1 ½ to 2 hours, until beef is fork-tender.

Step 5: Add Vegetables

In the final 30 minutes of cooking, add carrots and potatoes. Simmer until vegetables are cooked through and the broth has thickened into a rich, stew-like consistency.

Step 6: Finish & Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot, garnished with parsley, alongside crusty bread or buttered noodles.

Cook Time

2 hours 15 minutes

Servings

Serves 6

Nutritional Information (approx. per serving)

  • Calories: 420
  • Protein: 32g
  • Carbohydrates: 26g
  • Fat: 18g
  • Fiber: 4g

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Goulash also freezes well—cool completely before freezing for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth if needed.

Suggestions

  • Always use authentic Hungarian sweet paprika for the signature flavor.
  • For extra richness, stir in a spoonful of sour cream just before serving.
  • Pair with a robust red wine, such as a Hungarian Kékfrankos or Cabernet Franc.
  • Try serving over egg noodles or spaetzle for a more filling main course.

Seasonal Relevance

Hungarian goulash is particularly comforting in autumn and winter, when hearty, warming dishes are most appreciated. It’s also perfect for family gatherings, offering a communal style of dining that feels both rustic and festive.

Conclusion

This Easy & Flavorful Hungarian Goulash Recipe balances tradition with approachability. With tender beef, paprika’s warm depth, and hearty vegetables, it’s a dish that feels both homely and refined. Whether shared at a family table or prepared for a special evening, this goulash brings timeless comfort to your kitchen.

Easy & Flavorful Hungarian Goulash Recipe
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Easy & Flavorful Hungarian Goulash Recipe

Recipe by Soha
Servings

6

servings
Prep time

15

minutes
Cooking time

2

hours 
Calories

420

kcal
Total time

2

hours 

15

minutes

A traditional Hungarian goulash made with tender beef, sweet paprika, and hearty vegetables. This authentic stew is rich, flavorful, and perfect for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings.

Ingredients

  • 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes

  • 2 tbsp lard or vegetable oil

  • 2 large onions, finely chopped

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tbsp Hungarian sweet paprika

  • 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

  • 1 tsp caraway seeds, lightly crushed

  • 2 medium tomatoes, peeled and chopped (or 1 cup canned)

  • 2 medium bell peppers, diced

  • 2 medium carrots, sliced

  • 2 medium potatoes, cubed

  • 6 cups beef broth

  • 1 bay leaf

  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

  • Heat lard or oil in a Dutch oven. Sauté onions until golden, then add garlic.
  • Remove from heat briefly, stir in paprikas, then add beef and coat well.
  • Add caraway seeds, tomatoes, and bell peppers. Stir to combine.
  • Pour in beef broth, add bay leaf, and season lightly. Simmer 1 ½–2 hours until beef is tender.
  • Add carrots and potatoes in the last 30 minutes. Cook until vegetables are done and broth thickens.
  • Adjust seasoning and garnish with parsley before serving.

Recipe Video

Notes

  • For authentic flavor, use high-quality Hungarian sweet paprika.
  • This dish tastes even better the next day as flavors deepen.
  • Can be frozen for up to 3 months; reheat gently with a splash of broth.

FAQs

Q: Can I make Hungarian goulash in a slow cooker?
Yes, simply brown the meat and onions first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours.

Q: What’s the difference between Hungarian goulash and German goulash?
Hungarian goulash is more of a soup-stew hybrid with paprika as the star spice, while German goulash is thicker, darker, and often uses flour or roux to thicken the sauce.

Q: Can I use pork instead of beef?
Absolutely—pork shoulder works well, though beef chuck remains the classic choice for its depth of flavor and texture after long cooking.

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