Authentic Hungarian Goulash Recipe – Hearty Beef Stew

Hungarian Goulash – Hungarian Goulash is one of the most beloved comfort foods in Central Europe — a rich, aromatic beef stew that combines tender meat, hearty vegetables, and Hungary’s most iconic spice: paprika. Originating in the Hungarian plains as a simple herdsmen’s dish, Goulash (or Gulyás) has evolved into a national treasure, representing the warmth and soul of Hungarian cuisine. Traditionally slow-cooked over an open flame, this dish balances deep, smoky flavors with a subtle sweetness from onions and bell peppers.

• Save

Recipe Overview

• Cuisine: Hungarian

• Course: Main Course

• Servings: 6

• Calories: 410 kcal per serving

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Active Time: 30 minutes

• Resting Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour

• Difficulty Level: Moderate

Nutrition

Equipment

• Large Dutch oven or heavy pot

• Wooden spoon or spatula

• Cutting board and sharp knife

• Measuring cups and spoons

• Ladle

• Serving bowls

Ingredients

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes

• 3 tbsp vegetable oil or lard

• 2 large onions, finely chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tbsp Hungarian sweet paprika

• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)

• 1 red bell pepper, chopped

• 1 tomato, chopped (or ½ cup canned diced tomatoes)

• 4 cups beef broth

• 2 medium carrots, sliced

• 2 medium potatoes, diced

• 1 bay leaf

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:
   Begin by chopping your vegetables — onions, garlic, bell pepper, carrots, and potatoes. Cut the beef into uniform cubes for even cooking.

2. Sauté the Onions:
   In a large Dutch oven, heat oil or lard over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until golden brown and caramelized. This step builds the base flavor for your Goulash.

3. Add Garlic and Paprika:
   Once onions are golden, stir in the minced garlic. Immediately add sweet and smoked paprika, stirring quickly to prevent the paprika from burning — it can turn bitter if overcooked.

4. Brown the Beef:
   Add the beef cubes to the pot, mixing thoroughly so the meat is coated in the onion and paprika mixture. Brown the beef on all sides for about 5–7 minutes.

5. Add Vegetables and Tomatoes:
   Add the chopped bell pepper and tomato (or canned tomatoes) to the pot. Stir well and let the mixture cook for about 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

Tips for the Perfect Goulash

• Use authentic Hungarian paprika: It provides the signature flavor and color. Avoid substituting it with generic paprika.

• Low and slow cooking: Simmering gently makes the beef melt-in-your-mouth tender.

• Add a smoky twist: A touch of smoked paprika or even a hint of bacon adds depth to the flavor.

• Thick or thin: Adjust the broth amount based on whether you want a stew-like or soup-like consistency

Conclusion

Hungarian Goulash is more than just a stew — it’s a culinary symbol of Hungary’s rich tradition and love for hearty, flavorful dishes. From its humble beginnings as a meal for cattle herders to its place on global tables, it embodies comfort, simplicity, and depth of flavor.

tisha