Goulash: Traditional Recipe Step by Step

Goulash is a traditional Hungarian dish, known for its rich and robust flavor. This beef stew is made with a combination of beef, vegetables, and spices, with paprika as the most distinctive ingredient. Let us explore a detailed goulash recipe, so you can recreate this classic of Hungarian cuisine in your own kitchen.

Ingredients for Goulash

Main Ingredients

• 2.2 lb beef (good quality), cut into cubes

• 2 large onions, finely chopped

• 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped

• 2 tablespoons sweet paprika (good quality)

• 1 teaspoon hot paprika

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 4 medium tomatoes, chopped

• 2 red bell peppers, chopped

• 3 cups beef broth

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 2 bay leaves

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• Salt and black pepper to taste

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

• 1 cup fresh heavy cream (optional, to serve)

• Chopped parsley, to garnish

Yield and Prep Time

• Yield: 6 servings

• Prep time: 2 hours 30 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat and Vegetables

• Prepare the Meat: Season the beef cubes with salt, pepper, and the flour. Set aside.

• Chop the Vegetables: Finely chop the onions, garlic, tomatoes, and bell peppers. Set aside.

Step 2: Sear the Meat and Vegetables

• Sear the Meat: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil and add the beef cubes. Cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meat and set aside.

• Sauté the Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, add the finely chopped onions and sauté until translucent. Add the finely chopped garlic and cook for 2 more minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Ingredients

• Add the Spices: Add the sweet paprika and hot paprika to the pot with the onions and garlic. Stir well to release the flavors.

• Add the Tomatoes and Peppers: Add the chopped tomatoes and bell peppers to the pot. Cook for a few minutes until they start to soften.

• Add the Meat and Broth: Return the beef cubes to the pot. Add the beef broth, tomato paste, bay leaves, and cumin. Stir well.

Step 4: Simmer Over Low Heat

• Cook Slowly: Reduce the heat and let the goulash simmer gently for about 2 hours, or until the meat is very tender. Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

• Adjust the Seasoning: Taste and adjust with salt and pepper if needed.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

• Add Heavy Cream (optional): For a creamier goulash, add the fresh heavy cream during the last 10 minutes of cooking and mix well.

• Serve: Serve the goulash hot, garnished with chopped parsley. Pair with fresh bread, rice, or pasta, as you prefer.

Tips and Variations

Tips for a Perfect Goulash

• Quality Meat: Use good-quality beef to guarantee a flavorful, tender dish.

• Paprika: Paprika is the key ingredient in goulash. Use good-quality paprika for authentic flavor.

• Slow Cooking: Cook low and slow to let the flavors develop and the meat turn tender.

Recipe Variations

• Chicken Goulash: Replace the beef with chicken cut into pieces, following the same method.

• Vegetarian Goulash: Use vegetables such as potatoes, carrots, and squash instead of meat. Add chickpeas or beans for more protein.

• Spicy Goulash: Increase the amount of hot paprika or add cayenne pepper for a hotter goulash.

Nutritional Benefits of Goulash

Beef

Beef is an excellent source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12, essential nutrients for red blood cell formation and energy maintenance.

Vegetables

Tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which help strengthen the immune system and promote overall health.

Spices

Paprika, especially good-quality paprika, contains capsaicin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, besides giving the dish its unique flavor.

Goulash Nutrition Facts

Here is an approximate nutrition table for one serving of goulash (1/6 of the recipe):

Component	Amount per Serving (200g)
Calories	350
Protein	25g
Carbohydrates	15g
Fat	20g
Fiber	4g
Calcium	6% DV
Iron	30% DV

Conclusion

Goulash is a true gem of Hungarian cuisine, combining bold flavors and a comforting texture. This stew is perfect for colder days or whenever you crave a rich, full-flavored dish. Try making goulash at home and bring a little of Hungary to your table.

Share This Recipe

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