Ah, the warmth of a bubbling pot of traditional Hungarian goulash! This hearty stew has a way of making any chilly day feel cozy and inviting. I remember the first time I had goulash—it was at my grandmother’s kitchen, the smell of paprika and simmering beef wafting through the air. That rich aroma still takes me back! This Hungarian goulash recipe is not just a dish; it’s a hug in a bowl, filled with tender meat, colorful vegetables, and spices that dance on your palate. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked on its comforting flavors and the way it brings people together around the table. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s perfect for family dinners or when you just need something filling and delicious!
Ingredients for Hungarian Goulash Recipe
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Prepare Hungarian Goulash Recipe
- First things first, heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it nice and hot to get that beautiful sear on the beef!
- Once the oil is shimmering, add in the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant—about 5 minutes. Oh, the smell is heavenly already!
- Now, it’s time to add the beef cubes. Toss them in and brown them on all sides. This step is so important for building flavor, so take your time. It should take around 8-10 minutes.
- When the beef is browned to perfection, stir in the sweet paprika and caraway seeds. This is where the magic happens, so mix it well and let those spices coat the meat!
- Next, toss in the chopped bell pepper, sliced carrots, and diced potatoes. Give everything a good stir to combine all those colorful veggies with the beef.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. You’ll want to see those bubbles dancing!
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. This is the part where you can just relax and let the flavors meld together. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours. Stir occasionally and enjoy the aroma filling your kitchen!
- Before serving, season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a final stir, and you’re ready to enjoy this hearty delight!
Why You’ll Love This Hungarian Goulash Recipe
- Hearty and filling—perfect for those chilly nights when you crave something warm and comforting.
- Rich flavors that develop beautifully during the long simmer, making every bite a delight.
- Simple ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry, so it’s budget-friendly!
- Quick prep time—just chop, sauté, and let it simmer while you kick back and relax.
- It tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic option for meal prep.
- Versatile—feel free to adjust the veggies or spices to suit your taste and make it your own.
- Great for feeding a crowd, whether it’s family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends.
Tips for Success with Hungarian Goulash Recipe
Alright, let’s make sure your Hungarian goulash turns out absolutely amazing! Here are some of my top tips to help you nail this recipe like a pro:
- Get that browning right: Don’t rush the browning process of the beef. It’s essential for developing that deep, rich flavor. Make sure the pot is hot enough before adding the meat, and avoid overcrowding the pot—do it in batches if necessary!
- Adjust the spices: Everyone’s palate is different! Feel free to tweak the amount of sweet paprika or caraway seeds to match your taste. If you like it spicy, a pinch of cayenne pepper would add a nice kick!
- Let it simmer: The longer you let the goulash simmer, the better the flavors will meld together. If you have the time, letting it go for a full 2 hours will give you that tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat.
- Don’t skip the salt: Seasoning is key! Always taste and adjust the salt and pepper before serving. It can really elevate the entire dish if you get it just right.
- Serve it up right: Goulash pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over a bed of egg noodles. It’s the perfect way to soak up all that delicious sauce!
- Make it a day ahead: If you can, make your goulash a day in advance. It gives the flavors time to deepen, and trust me, it tastes even better the next day!
With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a comforting bowl of Hungarian goulash that everyone will love. Happy cooking!
Nutritional Information for Hungarian Goulash Recipe
Now, let’s talk about the nutritional side of this delicious Hungarian goulash! It’s always nice to know what’s on your plate, right? The values below are typical estimates per serving, so keep that in mind as you enjoy this hearty dish:
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 80mg
These values can vary a bit based on the specific ingredients you use, but overall, you’re getting a wholesome and satisfying meal filled with protein and good-for-you veggies. Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting classic!
FAQ About Hungarian Goulash Recipe
Got questions about making the perfect Hungarian goulash? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I often hear, along with my answers to help you on your cooking journey:
Can I use different meat?
Absolutely! While traditional Hungarian goulash typically uses beef, you can swap it out for pork or even chicken if you prefer. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of meat you choose.
How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers? Yes, please! Store your goulash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just make sure it’s cool before sealing it up to keep that perfect texture!
Can I freeze Hungarian goulash?
You bet! This goulash freezes beautifully. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop.
How do I make it spicier?
If you like a little heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes when you’re cooking. You can also swap in some spicy paprika for a different flavor profile! Just remember to start small so you can adjust to your taste.
What should I serve with Hungarian goulash?
Goulash is wonderfully versatile! You can serve it with crusty bread for dipping, over egg noodles, or even alongside a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It’s all about what you enjoy!
I hope these answers help you feel more confident in making your own delicious Hungarian goulash. Happy cooking, and enjoy every warming spoonful!
Serving Suggestions for Hungarian Goulash Recipe
Now that you’ve got this beautiful pot of Hungarian goulash simmering away, let’s talk about how to serve it up for the ultimate dining experience! Trust me, the right accompaniments can take your meal from good to absolutely amazing.
- Crusty Bread: You can’t go wrong with a thick slice of crusty bread! It’s perfect for dipping into the rich, flavorful broth. A good sourdough or rustic baguette will soak up all those delicious juices beautifully.
- Egg Noodles: Serve the goulash over a bed of tender egg noodles for a heartier dish. The noodles will soak up the sauce and add a nice texture that complements the stew perfectly!
- Mashed Potatoes: If you’re feeling indulgent, creamy mashed potatoes make a fantastic base for goulash. The buttery potatoes mixed with the savory sauce is pure comfort food bliss!
- Rice: For a lighter option, consider serving it with fluffy rice. It’s a great way to enjoy every last drop of that rich goulash sauce without overwhelming your plate.
- Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad adds a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew. Toss together some mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a bright and zesty side.
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top can add a wonderful creaminess that balances the spices beautifully. It’s a classic addition that many love!
- Pickles: For a tangy twist, serve some pickles or pickled vegetables on the side. The acidity cuts through the richness of the goulash and adds a fun crunch!
Mix and match these sides based on your mood or what you have on hand. No matter how you choose to serve it, this Hungarian goulash is sure to be the star of the meal! Enjoy every comforting bite!
Storage & Reheating Instructions for Hungarian Goulash Recipe
Alright, let’s talk about how to properly store those delicious leftovers of your Hungarian goulash! You definitely don’t want to waste a single spoonful of this comforting dish. Here’s how to do it:
- Storing Leftovers: Once your goulash has cooled down a bit, transfer it into an airtight container. It’s best to keep it in the refrigerator if you plan to eat it within the next 3 days. Just make sure it’s sealed well to maintain that rich flavor!
- Freezing: If you want to keep it for longer, goulash freezes wonderfully! Let it cool completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Just don’t forget to label it with the date so you know when to enjoy it again!
Now, let’s move on to reheating:
- Thawing: When you’re ready to enjoy your frozen goulash, simply take it out of the freezer and let it thaw overnight in the fridge. This slow method keeps the texture just right!
- Reheating on the Stovetop: The best way to reheat goulash is on the stovetop. Just add it to a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. You might want to add a splash of beef broth or water if it seems too thick.
- Microwave Option: In a pinch, you can use the microwave! Just place your goulash in a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely with a lid or paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until it’s hot. Be careful, it can get hot quickly!
And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can enjoy your Hungarian goulash days (or even weeks!) after you first made it. It’s a dish that just gets better with time, so dig in and savor those comforting flavors!
Drucken
Hungarian Goulash Recipe: 7 Comforting Tips to Savor
- Gesamtzeit: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Ertrag: 6 servings 1x
- Ernährung: Glutenfrei
Beschreibung
Traditional Hungarian goulash is a hearty stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices.
Zutaten
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Anweisungen
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onions and garlic; sauté until soft.
- Add beef cubes; brown on all sides.
- Stir in paprika and caraway seeds.
- Add bell pepper, carrots, and potatoes.
- Pour in beef broth; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat; simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Season with salt and pepper before serving.
Notes
- Serve with crusty bread.
- Goulash tastes better the next day.
- Adjust spices to your preference.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Kochen Zeit: 2 hours
- Kategorie: Main Dish
- Methode: Stovetop
- Küche: Hungarian
Ernährung
- Portionsgröße: 1 cup
- Kalorien: 350
- Zucker: 3g
- Natrium: 600mg
- Fett: 15g
- Gesättigte Fettsäuren: 6g
- Ungesättigte Fette: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Kohlenhydrate: 30g
- Faser: 4g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterin: 80mg
Keywords: hungarian goulash recipe
