Authentic Hungarian Goulash (Hearty Paprika Beef Stew)
Rich, deeply comforting, and full of bold paprika flavor, Hungarian Goulash is a classic one-pot beef stew that warms you from the inside out. Tender chunks of beef simmer slowly with onions, sweet paprika, and peppers until melt-in-your-mouth perfect. It’s rustic, satisfying, and even better the next day.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 1/2–2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 1x
Ingredients
2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1 1/2-inch cubes
2 Tbsp olive oil or lard
2 large onions, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 Tbsp sweet Hungarian paprika
1 tsp caraway seeds (optional)
2 Tbsp tomato paste
1 red bell pepper, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 medium potatoes, cubed (optional)
3 cups beef broth
1 bay leaf
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
Brown beef: Heat oil in a heavy pot. Season beef with salt and pepper. Brown in batches, then remove and set aside.
Cook onions: In the same pot, cook onions over medium heat until soft and golden, about 8–10 minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
Add paprika: Remove pot briefly from heat and stir in paprika (prevents burning). Add tomato paste and caraway seeds.
Simmer: Return beef to pot. Add peppers, carrots, potatoes (if using), broth, and bay leaf. Bring to a gentle boil.
Slow cook: Reduce heat, cover, and simmer 1 1/2–2 hours until beef is tender. Stir occasionally.
Adjust seasoning: Remove bay leaf and adjust salt and pepper before serving.
Serve with crusty bread, egg noodles, or dumplings.
Nutrition
- Calories: 400–500 kcal
- Fat: 18–25g
- Protein: 35–40g