Hearty Goulash Recipe: A Taste of Hungary

Introduction

Goulash, a traditional Hungarian dish, is a comforting and flavorful stew that's sure to warm your soul. It combines tender beef, paprika, and a medley of vegetables to create a rich and hearty meal. Let's dive into how to make this classic Goulash.

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Ingredients You'll Need:

2 pounds (900g) beef stew meat, cubed

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

2 large onions, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tablespoons sweet paprika

1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added depth)

1 teaspoon caraway seeds

1 red bell pepper, chopped

1 yellow bell pepper, chopped

1 green bell pepper, chopped

2 large tomatoes, chopped

2 tablespoons tomato paste

4 cups beef broth

2 bay leaves

Salt and pepper to taste

1/4 cup sour cream (optional, for garnish)

Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Cooked egg noodles or crusty bread (for serving)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

Start by cubing the beef stew meat into bite-sized pieces. Pat the meat dry with paper towels, which will help it brown nicely.

Step 2: Sear the Beef

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the cubed beef in batches and sear it until it's browned on all sides. Remove the seared beef from the pot and set it aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same pot, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until they become soft and translucent.

Stir in the sweet paprika, smoked paprika (if using), and caraway seeds. Sauté for another minute until the spices become fragrant.

Step 4: Add the Peppers and Tomatoes

Add the chopped red, yellow, and green bell peppers to the pot. Sauté them for a few minutes until they start to soften.

Stir in the chopped tomatoes and tomato paste. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down and release their juices.

Step 5: Combine the Beef and Broth

Return the seared beef to the pot and mix it with the sautéed vegetables.

Pour in the beef broth and add the bay leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Simmer to Perfection

Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the Goulash simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow simmer will make the beef incredibly tender and allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 7: Serve and Garnish

Once the Goulash is done, remove the bay leaves. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

To serve, ladle the Goulash over cooked egg noodles or accompany it with crusty bread.

Optionally, you can garnish each serving with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley.

Final Thoughts

This hearty Goulash is a wonderful comfort food that brings the flavors of Hungary to your table. Its rich and savory taste, combined with tender beef and aromatic spices, is sure to please your taste buds. Enjoy this classic dish as a warm and satisfying meal on a chilly day or any time you're craving a taste of Eastern European cuisine!