Save to Pinterest A comforting, classic Hungarian stew featuring tender beef and sweet paprika, simmered to perfection and served over buttery egg noodles for a rustic, heartwarming dinner.
This recipe has been a family favorite for years, perfect for cozy dinners and gatherings that bring everyone together.
Ingredients
- Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons
- Beef chuck: 2 pounds, cut into 1-inch cubes
- Yellow onions: 2 large, finely chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Sweet Hungarian paprika: 2 tablespoons
- Smoked paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Caraway seeds: 1 teaspoon, lightly crushed
- Dried marjoram: 1 teaspoon
- Tomato paste: 1 tablespoon
- Green bell pepper: 1, diced
- Tomatoes: 2 medium, diced (or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes, drained)
- Beef broth: 4 cups
- Salt: 1 teaspoon plus more to taste
- Black pepper: ½ teaspoon
- Bay leaf: 1
- Wide egg noodles: 12 ounces
- Unsalted butter: 2 tablespoons (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley: For garnish
- Sour cream: Optional for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat the oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- Step 2:
- In the same pot, add onions and sauté until golden and very soft, about 8 10 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- Step 3:
- Reduce heat to low. Add both paprikas, caraway seeds, and marjoram. Stir constantly for 1 minute, ensuring the spices do not burn.
- Step 4:
- Add tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, then stir in bell pepper and tomatoes, cooking for another 2 minutes.
- Step 5:
- Return the browned beef and any juices to the pot. Pour in beef broth, add salt, pepper, and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle simmer.
- Step 6:
- Cover and cook on low heat for 1 12 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fork-tender and the sauce has thickened. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Step 7:
- Meanwhile, cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and toss with butter, if using.
- Step 8:
- Remove bay leaf from the goulash. Serve the goulash hot over a bed of egg noodles, garnished with parsley and a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Save to Pinterest This dish has brought my family closer over many meals shared around our table, always creating warm memories.
Required Tools
Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, wooden spoon, chefs knife, cutting board, pasta pot and colander
Allergen Information
Contains: Egg (in egg noodles), Dairy (if butter or sour cream is used). May contain gluten (in egg noodles). Use gluten-free noodles if required. Always check product labels for potential allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 670, Total Fat 27 g, Carbohydrates 58 g, Protein 46 g
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This classic Hungarian goulash is a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Recipe FAQs
- → What cut of meat is best for the stew?
Beef chuck cut into 1-inch cubes works best, providing tender, flavorful meat after slow simmering.
- → Can I adjust the paprika flavors?
Yes, combining sweet and smoked paprika balances sweetness and depth; adding hot paprika creates a spicier profile.
- → How should egg noodles be prepared?
Cook according to package instructions, drain well, and toss with butter for a smooth, rich finish.
- → Is it possible to substitute the beef?
Pork shoulder is a suitable alternative, offering a different but equally tender and flavorful outcome.
- → What are good side dishes to accompany this meal?
A crisp green salad and crusty bread complement the stew well, providing fresh texture and soaking up the sauce.