Save 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 classic Hungarian goulash brings back warm memories of family dinners and cozy evenings around the table.
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 (optional): 2 tablespoons
- 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 ½ 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 This recipe is a staple at family dinners where stories and laughter flow as richly as the stew itself.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad and crusty bread for a complete meal.
Wine Pairing
Pair with a Hungarian red wine such as Egri Bikavér for an authentic experience.
Allergens
Contains egg in the egg noodles and dairy if butter or sour cream is used Use gluten-free noodles if required.
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This hearty goulash is both comforting and impressive, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Your Questions Answered
- → What type of beef is best for this dish?
Beef chuck cut into cubes is ideal as it becomes tender and absorbs flavors well during slow cooking.
- → Can I use other spice variations?
A mix of sweet and hot paprika enhances flavor depth, and adding caraway seeds and marjoram complements the dish’s traditional taste.
- → What is the recommended cooking method?
Slow simmering the stew on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours ensures the beef becomes fork-tender and the sauce thickens perfectly.
- → How should the egg noodles be prepared?
Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions, then toss with optional unsalted butter for richness before serving.
- → What garnishes complement this dish?
Fresh parsley adds color and freshness, while a dollop of sour cream lends a creamy contrast to the smoky stew.
- → Are there any suitable meat substitutions?
Pork shoulder can be used instead of beef for a varied flavor and texture, maintaining the dish’s hearty character.