Indulge in the savory warmth of Hungarian Goulash, a classic dish that combines tender stewed beef, aromatic spices, and a rich broth to create a meal that’s both comforting and flavorful. In this recipe, we’ll guide you through the simple steps to master the art of Hungarian Goulash, ensuring each bite is a journey through the heart of traditional Hungarian cuisine.
Ingredients:
- 2 medium onions
- 2 teaspoons butter or preferred lard
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 1/2 pounds stewing beef, trimmed and cut into 1″ cubes
- 2 cups beef broth or water
- 1 cup diced tomatoes, canned
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- Optional:
- 1 1/2 cups carrots (optional)
- 3 cups potatoes (optional)
Instructions:
- Saute Aromatics: In a large pot, melt butter or lard over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and cook until translucent. Stir in caraway seeds and paprika, allowing the spices to infuse the onions with their aromatic essence. Mix thoroughly to create a flavorful base.
- Coat Beef in Flour: In a bowl, dredge the stewing beef cubes with flour, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Add the flour-coated beef to the pot with the sauteed onions. Allow the beef to cook for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to brown slightly and absorb the flavors of the spices.
- Deglaze and Add Ingredients: Slowly pour about 1/4 cup of the beef broth into the pot, using it to lift any brown bits from the bottom of the pan. This step adds depth to the dish. Once the pan is deglazed, add the remaining beef broth, diced tomatoes, and optional ingredients like carrots and potatoes if desired. Season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer to Perfection: Stir the ingredients well and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, cover the pot and reduce the heat to a simmer. Let the Hungarian Goulash simmer for approximately 1 1/2 – 2 hours or until the beef becomes tender, and the flavors meld into a rich, hearty stew.
- Serve and Enjoy: Revel in the rich flavors of Hungarian Goulash by serving it over a bed of noodles or alongside crusty bread. The tender beef, infused with the spices and vegetables, creates a symphony of taste that will transport you to the heart of Hungary with every mouthful.
Conclusion: With its robust flavors and comforting warmth, Hungarian Goulash is a culinary masterpiece that stands the test of time. Whether enjoyed as a family dinner or shared with friends, this recipe promises to bring joy and satisfaction to your table. Embrace the heritage of Hungarian cuisine and savor the delightful richness of this classic dish. Enjoy!