Welcome back to GertieBlu! Today, we’re venturing into the delicious, comforting world of Hungarian Goulash—a dish that’s as cozy as it is flavorful. Goulash (or gulyás in Hungarian) is a rich, meaty stew that combines tender beef, vibrant spices, and hearty vegetables. Perfect for chilly nights, this recipe will bring warmth and comfort to your home. Let’s explore a bit of goulash history and make a pot together!
A Little History: What is Goulash?
Goulash originated in Hungary as a traditional stew made by Hungarian herdsmen or gulyás. The dish began as a simple and sustaining meal for cattle herders, combining easy-to-find ingredients like beef, onions, paprika, and potatoes, cooked in one pot over an open fire. Over the centuries, goulash has evolved, gaining new ingredients and techniques, yet it remains a comforting, rustic dish beloved worldwide.
The Essentials: Ingredients for Goulash
Traditional goulash calls for a few key ingredients to achieve its distinctive flavor:
- Beef Chuck or Stew Meat: Opt for a cut with good marbling, which will turn tender and flavorful after simmering.
- Onions: Essential for a rich base, adding sweetness and depth.
- Garlic: For a touch of earthy warmth.
- Paprika: The star ingredient! Hungarian paprika is the soul of the dish, bringing a mild, smoky, and slightly sweet flavor.
- Tomato Paste: Adds a subtle tanginess and depth of color.
- Carrots and Potatoes: Traditional vegetables that give the stew body and make it a complete, satisfying meal.
- Beef Broth: Adds depth and richness to the broth.
- Caraway Seeds (optional): Adds an aromatic touch and complements the paprika nicely.
Let’s Get Cooking: Step-by-Step Recipe
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1.5 to 2 hours
Serves: 4 to 6
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ½ lbs beef chuck or stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 3 tablespoons Hungarian paprika (if possible, use sweet Hungarian paprika for authenticity)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
- Sauté the Onions and Garlic
In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until golden and soft, about 5–7 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté for another minute. - Brown the Beef
Increase the heat to medium-high and add the beef cubes to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until the meat is browned on all sides, stirring occasionally. - Add the Paprika and Tomato Paste
Sprinkle the paprika over the beef and stir well to coat all the pieces. Add the tomato paste and stir again. Let it cook for 1–2 minutes to bring out the flavors of the paprika. - Add Caraway Seeds and Beef Broth
If you’re using caraway seeds, add them now. Pour in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. These add extra flavor to the stew! Bring the mixture to a boil. - Simmer the Stew
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for 1 hour, or until the beef is tender. - Add Carrots and Potatoes
After an hour, add the carrots and potatoes to the pot. Cover and continue simmering for another 30–45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded. - Taste and Season
Taste the stew and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt or pepper to taste. - Serve
Ladle the goulash into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy! Serve with crusty bread, a dollop of sour cream, or a side of buttery noodles if you like.
Tips for Making the Best Goulash
- Use Quality Paprika: Hungarian paprika comes in different varieties, from sweet to spicy. Use a sweet or mild variety to keep the authentic flavor without too much heat.
- Low and Slow Cooking: Allowing the stew to cook slowly and gently will help the flavors develop and make the meat tender.
- Add Your Own Twist: While this is a classic recipe, feel free to add a touch of red wine, bell peppers, or even smoked paprika for an extra twist on the traditional flavors.
Wrap Up: A Bowl Full of Comfort
Hungarian goulash is one of those timeless dishes that truly warms from the inside out. It’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with rich textures that feel like a warm hug on a cold night. Whether you’re a goulash first-timer or this stew already has a place in your heart, I hope this recipe brings a little extra coziness to your kitchen.
Until next time, keep cooking and stay cozy!
GertieBlu
