Hungarian Goulash Recipe

Name: Hungarian Goulash Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Cuisine: Hungarian
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons olive oil; 2½ pounds lean stewing beef, cut into 1-inch pieces; 2 large onions, roughly chopped; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons sweet paprika; ½ cup tomato sauce; 4 cups beef broth (no salt added); Fresh parsley for garnish

Published: January 30, 2026

by Olivia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich Flavor: The combination of spices, especially sweet paprika, creates an irresistible taste that defines authentic Hungarian cuisine.
Hearty Ingredients: Using lean stewing beef guarantees a filling meal that appeals to meat lovers and comfort food enthusiasts alike.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread for a complete dining experience.
Easy to Prepare: With straightforward instructions, even novice cooks can master this delicious dish with ease.
Perfect for Meal Prep: This goulash tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prep.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather the necessary equipment before you begin. Having the right tools at hand will streamline the process of creating this delightful Hungarian Goulash.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large skillet or Dutch oven
Sharp knife
Cutting board
Measuring spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Large skillet or Dutch oven: Essential for searing the beef and simmering the goulash evenly without crowding.
Sharp knife: A sharp knife ensures safe and efficient chopping of vegetables and meat.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your cookware while helping to scrape up flavorful bits from the bottom.

Ingredients

For the Base

4 tablespoons olive oil
2½ pounds stewing beef (lean, cut into 1 inch pieces)
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1 teaspoon pepper (or to taste)
2 large onions (roughly chopped)
5 cloves garlic (minced)

For the Spices

3 tablespoons sweet paprika
1 teaspoon caraway seeds (ground)
1 teaspoon oregano (dried)
3 bay leaves
1 teaspoon brown sugar

For the Sauce

½ cup tomato sauce
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
4 cups beef broth (no salt added)

For Garnish

2 tablespoons parsley (chopped)

How to Make Hungarian Goulash Recipe

Step 1: Sear the Beef

Begin by heating a large skillet or Dutch oven over high heat. Add olive oil until it shimmers slightly.
Add stewing beef in a single layer, sprinkling generously with salt and pepper.
Sear on all sides until browned; remove from pan once browned.

Step 2: Cook Onions and Garlic

Reduce heat to medium-high; add chopped onions and minced garlic to the same pan.
Cook for about 5 minutes until onions are translucent, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Add Spices

Lower heat to medium-low; add sweet paprika, caraway seeds, oregano, bay leaves, and brown sugar.
Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until spices become fragrant.

Step 4: Create Sauce Base

Pour in tomato sauce, balsamic vinegar, and beef broth; stir well to combine.
Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Step 5: Simmer Goulash

Return seared beef to the skillet; nestle into broth.
Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat; reduce heat to low.
Cover tightly and simmer gently for about 2 hours until beef is fork-tender.

Step 6: Final Adjustments

After simmering, check tenderness of beef; adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Remove bay leaves before serving.

Step 7: Serve

Garnish generously with chopped parsley before serving hot over your choice of accompaniments like egg noodles or crusty bread.

Enjoy your homemade Hungarian Goulash Recipe! It’s sure to be a hit at your table!

How to Serve Hungarian Goulash Recipe

Serving Hungarian Goulash is an opportunity to create a hearty and comforting meal that can be enjoyed in various ways. It pairs perfectly with different sides and garnishes, enhancing the flavors of this rich stew.

Over Egg Noodles

Egg Noodles (Spaetzle or Nokedli): These soft, pillowy noodles soak up the savory goulash sauce beautifully, making every bite deliciously satisfying.

With Crusty Bread

Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of rustic bread is perfect for sopping up the flavorful broth, adding a delightful texture contrast to the dish.

On Mashed Potatoes

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide a smooth base for the goulash, complementing its richness while adding a comforting element to your meal.

Topped with Fresh Parsley

Fresh Parsley Garnish: Sprinkling chopped parsley over the goulash adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish visually and flavor-wise.

Accompanied by Pickles

Pickles: Tangy pickles offer a sharp contrast to the savory flavors of goulash, providing a refreshing crunch that enhances your dining experience.

How to Perfect Hungarian Goulash Recipe

To make your Hungarian Goulash truly exceptional, follow these helpful tips. They will help you achieve rich flavors and tender meat that everyone will love.

Use Quality Ingredients: Selecting fresh vegetables and high-quality beef broth elevates the overall taste of your goulash significantly.
Sear Meat Properly: Ensure you sear the beef until browned on all sides; this develops essential flavor compounds through the Maillard reaction.
Layer Seasonings: Add seasonings at different stages of cooking for balanced flavors. This technique builds depth in your goulash.
Simmer Slowly: Allow ample time for simmering; low-and-slow cooking breaks down tough meat fibers and deepens flavor.
Taste and Adjust: Always taste your goulash before serving. Adjust salt, pepper, or sweetness as needed to suit your palate.
Let It Rest: If possible, let your goulash rest after cooking. This allows flavors to meld together even further before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Hungarian Goulash Recipe

Pairing side dishes with Hungarian Goulash can enhance your meal’s flavor profile. Here are some excellent options to consider:

Crusty Baguette: A fresh baguette adds texture and is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add a healthy component while providing natural sweetness and caramelization.
Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad offers crunch and acidity that complements the richness of the goulash.
Sauerkraut: This tangy fermented cabbage brings brightness and a bit of zing that contrasts nicely with hearty goulash.
Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf serves as a neutral base, allowing the goulash flavors to shine through without overwhelming them.
Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus adds a smoky flavor that pairs well with the stew’s richness.
Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw provides crunch and tanginess, balancing out the savory notes of goulash beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks make mistakes that can dull the flavors or alter the texture of their Hungarian Goulash. Here are some common pitfalls to watch for.

Bold seasoning too late: Adding all your spices at once or omitting early seasoning can lead to a flat taste. Season your beef and layers as you cook to build depth.
Bold overcrowding the pan: Searing too much beef at once can cause steaming, not browning. Cook in batches to ensure caramelization for maximum flavor.
Bold skipping the browning step: Neglecting to properly sear the beef will result in a less flavorful dish. Take your time to develop those rich, brown crusts on the meat.
Bold rushing the simmering process: Goulash needs time for flavors to develop. Avoid cooking on high heat; low and slow is key for tender meat and rich sauce.
Bold ignoring texture adjustments: If the goulash becomes too thick while simmering, add more broth or water. Adjusting liquid levels is essential for achieving the right consistency.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Hungarian Goulash Recipe

Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
Keep frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Hungarian Goulash Recipe

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals, stirring until hot.
Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium-low heat, stirring frequently until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if it’s too thick.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making this Hungarian Goulash Recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries answered.

What is a traditional Hungarian Goulash Recipe?

A traditional Hungarian Goulash Recipe includes stewed beef, paprika, onions, and various spices simmered together for a hearty dish.

Can I use other meats in this Hungarian Goulash Recipe?

Yes! You can substitute chicken or turkey for a lighter version, but adjust cooking times as needed since they may cook faster than beef.

How do I thicken my Hungarian Goulash Recipe?

If your goulash is too thin, try simmering it uncovered to reduce excess liquid or add a cornstarch slurry for quick thickening.

Can I customize this Hungarian Goulash Recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for extra flavor and nutrition according to your taste preferences.

What should I serve with my Hungarian Goulash?

Serve it over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread. Each option complements the rich flavors beautifully!

Final Thoughts

This Hungarian Goulash Recipe is a delightful mix of rich flavors that warms any meal occasion. It’s versatile enough to adapt with different proteins and vegetables. Give it a try and enjoy customizing it to suit your taste!

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