Easy Hungarian Goulash Recipe

Description

This Easy Hungarian Goulash is a warm, hearty, and comforting dish made with tender beef, onions, sweet paprika, tomatoes, and delicious spices. Slow-simmered until the beef becomes beautifully tender, this traditional-style stew is perfect for cozy family dinners. Serve it with noodles, potatoes, or crusty bread for a satisfying meal!

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into cubes

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 large onions, chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 2 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika

• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

• 3 cups beef broth

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped

• 2 carrots, sliced

• 2 medium potatoes, cubed

• 1 teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 bay leaf

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional)

• Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef: Pat beef cubes dry with paper towels. Season with salt and black pepper.

2. Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown beef in batches on all sides. Remove and set aside.

3. Cook Onions: Add chopped onions to the same pot. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened and lightly golden.

4. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in minced garlic, paprika, and caraway seeds. Cook for about 30 seconds, being careful not to burn the paprika.

5. Add Tomato Paste: Stir in tomato paste and cook for another minute.

6. Add Liquid: Pour in diced tomatoes and beef broth. Stir well to combine.

7. Return Beef: Add browned beef back to the pot along with thyme and bay leaf.

8. Simmer: Cover and cook over low heat for about 1½ hours, stirring occasionally.

9. Add Vegetables: Add carrots, bell pepper, and potatoes. Continue cooking for another 30–40 minutes until vegetables and beef are tender.

10. Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker stew, mix flour with a little cold water and stir it into the goulash. Simmer for another 5 minutes.

11. Finish: Remove the bay leaf, taste, and adjust seasoning.

12. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Healthy Benefits

• Protein-Rich: Beef provides protein to support muscle health.

• Iron: Beef contains iron, which helps support healthy red blood cells.

• Vitamin A: Carrots provide nutrients that support eye health.

• Potassium: Potatoes provide potassium and energy.

• Vegetable Goodness: Onions, peppers, and tomatoes add fiber and beneficial nutrients.

Pro Tips

• Use beef chuck for the most tender results.

• Choose authentic sweet Hungarian paprika for traditional flavor.

• Cook paprika briefly to prevent bitterness.

• Brown beef in batches for better flavor.

• Simmer slowly to make the beef tender.

• Prepare the goulash a day ahead for even deeper flavor.

Frequency

Enjoy this hearty meal occasionally as part of a balanced weekly meal plan.

Q&A

Q: What type of beef is best for Hungarian goulash?

Beef chuck is an excellent choice because it becomes tender during slow cooking.

Q: Can I make Hungarian goulash in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef and onions first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 7–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours, adding potatoes and other vegetables according to their cooking time.

Q: Can I make this recipe without potatoes?

Absolutely! Serve it over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes instead.

Q: Can I freeze leftover goulash?

Yes! Store in airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with buttered egg noodles.

• Pair with mashed potatoes.

• Enjoy with crusty bread.

• Add a fresh cucumber salad.

• Garnish with sour cream and parsley.

Variations

• Spicy Goulash: Add hot paprika or red pepper flakes.

• Pork Goulash: Replace beef with pork shoulder.

• Slow Cooker Goulash: Prepare everything in a crockpot.

• Gluten-Free Version: Skip the flour or use gluten-free flour.

• Extra Vegetable Goulash: Add mushrooms, celery, or extra bell peppers.

Related Recipe Ideas

• Classic Beef Stew

• Slow Cooker Beef Pot Roast

• Traditional Beef Paprikash

• Hungarian Chicken Paprikash

• Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup

• Beef and Potato Casserole

Final Thoughts

This Easy Hungarian Goulash is the perfect comfort food for chilly evenings and family dinners. Tender beef, sweet paprika, hearty vegetables, and a rich savory sauce make every bite delicious. It’s simple, filling, and full of homemade flavor.