Hearty Hungarian Goulash
Embark on a culinary journey to the heart of Central Europe with a steaming bowl of traditional Hungarian goulash. This stew is not only a national treasure but also a staple in Hungarian cuisine, known for its comforting qualities and rich paprika-infused flavor. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this recipe outlines how to create an authentic goulash experience at home.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 medium onions, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1.5 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large tomato, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 6 cups beef broth or water
- 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped for garnishing
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and sauté until onions are translucent.
- Stir in the paprika and caraway seeds, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the beef cubes, browning them on all sides which will seal in their juices and add depth to the stew.
- Mix in the tomato and red bell pepper, and continue to cook for a couple of minutes.
- Pour in the beef broth or water and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1.5-2 hours, or until the beef is almost tender.
- Add the cubed potatoes to the pot and season the stew with salt and pepper. Continue to simmer until the potatoes are tender and the beef is completely cooked through.
- If the goulash is too thick, add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Adjust the seasoning if necessary.
- Once the stew is ready, allow it to stand for a few minutes. This helps the flavors meld together.
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.
This goulash pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread or traditional egg noodles. Whether for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this Hungarian goulash is sure to impress with its robust flavors and heartwarming essence.