Hungarian Goulash, or “Gulyás,” is a beloved traditional Hungarian stew renowned for its rich flavors and comforting qualities. If you’re seeking a hearty and soul-warming dish, this Hungarian Goulash recipe is the answer. Let’s explore this delightful dish and how to prepare it step by step.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds (approximately 900g) of tender beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized cubes
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons of sweet Hungarian paprika
- 1 teaspoon of fragrant caraway seeds
- 1 teaspoon of salt
- 1/2 teaspoon of freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of optional smoked paprika, adding an extra layer of flavor
- 2 bay leaves
- 4 cups of rich beef broth
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 ripe tomato, diced
- 1 cup of sour cream (for serving)
- Freshly chopped parsley for a vibrant garnish
Instructions:
1. Begin with Searing the Beef:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a substantial Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat.
- Add the bite-sized beef cubes and sear them until they achieve a delightful golden-brown color on all sides, which typically takes around 5 minutes. Once done, transfer the beef to a separate dish, setting it aside for now.
2. Infuse Flavor with Onions and Garlic:
- In the same pot, incorporate the finely chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until they turn translucent, which typically takes approximately 5 minutes.
3. Introduce Spices and Broth:
- Now, stir in the sweet Hungarian paprika, caraway seeds, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika (if you opt for it), and the bay leaves. Cook this aromatic mixture for an additional 2 minutes to release the full spectrum of flavors.
- Pour in the 4 cups of robust beef broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
4. Simmer the Beef:
- Return the seared beef to the pot, embracing it in the flavorful broth. Lower the heat to a gentle simmer, cover, and allow it to cook for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef achieves the desired tenderness.
5. Add the Vibrant Vegetables:
- As your goulash simmers away, introduce the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, finely chopped green and red bell peppers, and the diced tomato to the pot.
- Continue to simmer for an additional 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and infused with the rich flavors of the dish.
6. Fine-Tune the Seasoning:
- Before serving, be sure to taste your goulash and adjust the seasoning as needed with additional salt and pepper.
7. Present Your Hungarian Goulash:
- Don’t forget to remove the bay leaves to ensure a smooth dining experience.
- Ladle your Hungarian Goulash into serving bowls, and for an authentic touch, add a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkling of freshly chopped parsley.
8. Savor the Flavor:
- Your homemade Hungarian Goulash is now ready to enjoy. This dish is traditionally served with crusty bread or atop egg noodles for an authentic Hungarian experience.
Include this delectable Hungarian Goulash in your culinary repertoire, and you’ll have a treasured recipe for hearty and satisfying meals, especially during the colder months. Its rich flavors and comforting nature make it a perennial favorite among families and groups.