Authentic Hungarian Goulash Recipe

Hungarian Goulash Recipe – Rich, Hearty & Flavorful Stew

This easy one-pot stew is perfect for cozy dinners. Try this authentic Goulash recipe today!

🔥 Authentic Hungarian Goulash Recipe

Looking for the best Hungarian Goulash recipe? This hearty beef stew is packed with rich flavors, smoky paprika, and tender meat simmered in a flavorful broth. Whether you’re making traditional Hungarian Goulash or a comforting American-style Goulash, this dish is a must-try!

⭐ Why You’ll Love This Recipe

✔️ Authentic & Flavorful – True Hungarian taste with smoky paprika.
✔️ One-Pot Meal – Easy cleanup and minimal effort.
✔️ Rich & Hearty – Perfect for cold nights.
✔️ Make-Ahead Friendly – Tastes even better the next day!

📝 Ingredients

• 2 lbs (900g) beef chuck, cut into cubes (tender, juicy meat)
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for searing the beef)
• 2 onions, finely chopped (adds sweetness)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (for deep flavor)
• 3 tbsp Hungarian sweet paprika (key ingredient!)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste (adds depth)
• 4 cups beef broth (rich, flavorful base)
• 1 tsp caraway seeds (authentic Hungarian touch)
• 2 medium carrots, sliced (adds sweetness)
• 2 potatoes, diced (optional, for thickness)
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped (traditional ingredient)
• 1 bay leaf (enhances aroma)
• Salt & black pepper to taste
• ½ cup sour cream (for garnish, optional)

👨‍🍳 How to Make Hungarian Goulash

Step 1: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add beef cubes and sear until browned. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: In the same pot, sauté onions until golden, then add garlic, paprika, and tomato paste. Stir well.

Step 3: Return beef to the pot. Pour in beef broth, add caraway seeds, bay leaf, carrots, and bell pepper. Stir to combine.

Step 4: Cover and simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours, until beef is fork-tender.

Step 5: Add potatoes (if using) and cook for another 30 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt & pepper.

Step 6: Serve hot, garnished with sour cream and fresh parsley. Enjoy with crusty bread or dumplings!

🌟 Pro Tips for the Best Goulash

✅ Use Hungarian paprika – Regular paprika won’t give the same depth of flavor.
✅ Low & Slow Cooking – Let it simmer for at least 2 hours for the best texture.
✅ Caraway seeds = Authenticity – This spice gives goulash its signature taste.
✅ Serve it right – Traditionally, it’s served with nokedli (Hungarian dumplings) or bread.

🍽️ Best Side Dishes for Goulash

✔️ Egg noodles or Hungarian nokedli (spaetzle)
✔️ Crusty bread for dipping
✔️ Mashed potatoes for extra comfort
✔️ Pickled cucumbers to balance the richness

❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the difference between Hungarian and American Goulash?

Hungarian goulash is a rich, slow-cooked beef stew with paprika and broth, while American goulash is a tomato-based dish with ground beef and macaroni.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef and onions first, then add everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

How long does homemade goulash last?

Stored in an airtight container, it lasts up to 4 days in the fridge or 3 months in the freezer.

What’s the best beef for goulash?

Use chuck roast or stewing beef, as they become tender and juicy when slow-cooked.

📌 Final Thoughts

Now you have the ultimate Hungarian Goulash recipe – hearty, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you serve it over noodles, with bread, or on its own, this comforting dish will warm your soul.

🔥 Try this recipe today and let us know how it turned out!