Description
Hungarian Goulash is a hearty and comforting stew featuring tender beef chuck, fragrant paprika, and a medley of potatoes and carrots. This traditional dish simmers slowly on the stovetop, allowing the rich flavors of spices and vegetables to meld into a warming and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Seasonings
- 1 1/2 lbs. beef chuck roast, fat trimmed and cut into 1 inch cubes
- 1 tsp. caraway seeds
- 3 tbsp. paprika, preferably Hungarian
- 1 tsp. sea salt
- 1/4 tsp. ground black pepper
Vegetables
- 2 medium yellow onions, diced roughly
- 3 large russet potatoes, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
Others
- 1 tbsp. salted butter
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef stock
- 1 14.5 oz. can diced tomatoes
Instructions
- Saute Onions: Melt the butter in a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until tender and translucent, about 2-3 minutes, releasing their natural sweetness.
- Add Spices: Stir in the caraway seeds and paprika, mixing thoroughly to coat the onions and awaken the spices’ aromas.
- Coat Beef Cubes: Pour the all-purpose flour into a shallow bowl and toss the cubed beef chuck in the flour until evenly coated. This helps thicken the stew later.
- Brown Beef: Transfer the floured beef cubes to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes, searing the meat to develop deep flavor and color.
- Add Liquids and Vegetables: Pour in the beef stock and canned diced tomatoes, then add the diced potatoes and carrots. Season with sea salt and ground black pepper, stirring gently to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then place the lid on the pot and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let the stew simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded.
Notes
- Using Hungarian paprika enhances authenticity and flavor depth, but you can substitute with sweet or smoked paprika if needed.
- Trim excess fat from the beef to avoid a greasy stew.
- Simmer gently to prevent vegetables from becoming mushy and to allow beef to become tender.
- Adjust seasoning at the end to taste.
- For a thicker stew, continue simmering uncovered until desired consistency is reached.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Hungarian
Keywords: Hungarian Goulash, Beef Stew, Traditional Hungarian Recipe, Paprika Beef Stew, Comfort Food
