Goulash is a popular Hungarian dish known for its rich and hearty flavor. It is a type of stew that typically consists of meat (such as beef, pork, or sometimes lamb) and various vegetables, seasoned with paprika and other spices. The name “goulash” is derived from the Hungarian word “gulyás,” which means “herdsman” or “cowboy.”
Here’s a basic recipe for Hungarian beef goulash:
Ingredients:
- 1.5 to 2 pounds of beef stew meat (such as chuck roast), cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 2 bay leaves
- 2-3 cups beef broth
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sour cream (optional, for serving)
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Add the onions and garlic and sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the paprika and caraway seeds, and cook for another minute to release their flavors.
- Add the cubed beef to the pot and brown it on all sides. This helps to develop a rich flavor in the goulash.
- Pour in enough beef broth to cover the meat, add the bay leaves, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender.
- Add the diced potatoes, sliced carrots, and chopped red bell pepper to the pot. If needed, add more beef broth to ensure there’s enough liquid to cover the vegetables. Continue to simmer until the vegetables are tender, which usually takes about 20-30 minutes.
- Taste the goulash and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more paprika or salt if desired.
- Serve the goulash hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream and chopped fresh parsley, if you like. Traditionally, goulash is often served with bread, dumplings, or noodles.
Goulash is a comforting and flavorful dish that has become popular in many countries beyond Hungary. It’s a perfect meal for colder weather and is sure to satisfy your taste buds with its rich and savory taste.
