Feeling chilly and in need of some warmth? This Hungarian Paprika Goulash is your ticket to comfort town. Packed with rich flavors and tender beef, it’s a dish that promises to cozy up your dinner table with minimal fuss.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of sweet and hot paprika gives the goulash its signature depth and warmth.
- Slow cooking the beef ensures it’s melt-in-your-mouth tender, absorbing all the delicious spices.
- It’s a one-pot wonder, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
- Perfect for meal prep, as the flavors deepen when stored, making leftovers even better.
- Versatile and forgiving, allowing for various substitutions based on what you have on hand.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 large onions, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp sweet paprika
- 1 tbsp hot paprika
- 1 tsp caraway seeds
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup sour cream (optional, for serving)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Heat the vegetable oil in your large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot, and brown them on all sides. This should take about 5 minutes per batch. Remove the beef and set aside. Tip: Don’t skip browning the beef; it’s crucial for developing deep flavors.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In the same pot, add the diced onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the sweet and hot paprika, along with the caraway seeds, cooking for another minute until fragrant. Tip: Keep the heat medium to prevent the spices from burning.
Step 3: Combine and Simmer
Return the beef to the pot. Add the diced bell peppers, beef broth, tomato paste, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Adjust Seasoning
Once the beef is tender, remove the bay leaves. Taste the goulash and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. If the sauce is too thin, you can simmer it uncovered for a few more minutes to thicken.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the goulash into bowls. If desired, dollop with sour cream and sprinkle with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
Tips and Tricks
For an even richer flavor, consider marinating the beef cubes in the paprika mixture overnight before cooking. If you’re short on time, a pressure cooker can reduce the cooking time significantly—just follow your appliance’s instructions for beef stew. Don’t have fresh bell peppers? Frozen ones work in a pinch. And remember, goulash is forgiving, so feel free to adjust the spice levels to suit your taste.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Goulash: Swap the beef for mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
- Spicy Kick: Add more hot paprika or a diced chili pepper for extra heat.
- Beer-Infused: Replace half the beef broth with dark beer for a deeper flavor.
- Root Vegetables: Add carrots and potatoes during the last 30 minutes of cooking for a heartier dish.
- Smoky Twist: Incorporate smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make goulash in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After browning the beef and sautéing the aromatics, transfer everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooker method is perfect for busy days when you want dinner ready when you get home.
How do I store leftovers?
Goulash stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.
What’s the best cut of beef for goulash?
Beef chuck is ideal for goulash because it’s flavorful and becomes tender when slow-cooked. Other good options include brisket or round steak, but avoid lean cuts as they can become tough.
Summary
This Hungarian Paprika Goulash is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its tender beef, rich paprika sauce, and customizable variations, it’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.