Immerse yourself in the rich and robust flavors of Hungarian Goulash—a traditional dish that warms the soul with its tender beef, savory spices, and hearty broth. This slow-cooked masterpiece is a celebration of Hungarian cuisine, and its aromatic blend of paprika and other seasonings creates a dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. Let’s embark on a culinary journey to create this iconic Hungarian delight!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs (about 900g) beef stew meat, cubed
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 tablespoons Hungarian sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
- Cooked egg noodles or crusty bread (for serving)
Instructions:
- Brown the Beef:
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef cubes on all sides in batches. Remove and set aside.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic:
- In the same pot, add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are soft and translucent.
- Add Paprika and Spices:
- Stir in Hungarian sweet paprika, caraway seeds, dried marjoram, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Cook for a couple of minutes to release the flavors.
- Incorporate Tomato Paste:
- Add tomato paste and continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring to coat the onions with the spices.
- Return Beef to Pot:
- Return the browned beef cubes to the pot, coating them with the onion and spice mixture.
- Add Vegetables and Liquid:
- Add sliced carrots, diced potatoes, beef broth, and red wine (if using). Ensure the liquid covers the meat and vegetables.
- Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender and the flavors meld together.
- Optional Thickening:
- If desired, mix flour with a bit of water to create a smooth paste. Stir this into the goulash to thicken the broth.
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve:
- Discard the bay leaf. Serve the Hungarian Goulash over cooked egg noodles or with crusty bread. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.
Enjoy the hearty and robust flavors of Hungarian Goulash, a dish that exemplifies traditional Hungarian cuisine. This slow-cooked masterpiece, whether served over egg noodles or with a side of crusty bread, will undoubtedly become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Dive into the rich flavors and aromatic spices of this classic dish and be transported to the heart of Hungary. 🇭🇺🍲🥩✨