Goulash is a traditional Hungarian stew made with beef, onions, and a blend of spices, especially paprika.

How long does Goulash take to make?

Goulash takes approximately 105-145 minutes to prepare and cook.

Goulash Recipe – Hungary's Hearty Stew

Name: Goulash
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 1 h 35 min
Total time: 2 h 5 min
Yield: 6-8 servings
Cuisine: Hungary
Ingredients: beef broth; bell pepper; black pepper; caraway seeds; carrots; cayenne pepper; cloves garlic; cubed; cumin; dried marjoram; dried thyme; onions; parsley for garnish; potatoes; pounds beef chuck cut into inch cubes; salt; sour cream for serving; sweet paprika; tomato paste; tomatoes canned; vegetable oil

Goulash showcases deep russet-brown beef chunks swimming in a paprika-deep red broth with soft potatoes and carrots visible throughout. This iconic Magyar stew evolved from the cooking traditions of Hungarian shepherds who needed hearty, portable sustenance. Today it's served everywhere from street stalls to fine dining, representing the soul of Hungarian comfort food. The distinctive paprika-forward spicing and slow-braised tenderness make each spoonful satisfying and warming.

⚡ Medium 🔥 ~450 kcal / serving

Ingredients

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
2 large onions, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons sweet paprika
1 teaspoon caraway seeds
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 cups beef broth
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
1 bell pepper, chopped
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Sour cream (optional, for serving)

Instructions

Cook the Onions and Garlic

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

Add the chopped onions and cook until they are soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Brown the Beef

Add the beef cubes to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.

Add Spices and Tomato Paste

Stir in the sweet paprika, caraway seeds, ground cumin, dried thyme, dried marjoram, and cayenne pepper (if using).

Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the spices.

Add the tomato paste and stir to combine.

Add Liquids and Vegetables

Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes, stirring to combine.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.

Add the cubed potatoes, sliced carrots, and chopped bell pepper.

Simmer

Cover the pot and let the goulash simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the meat and vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally and add more broth if needed.

Season and Serve

Season the goulash with salt and black pepper to taste.

Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Goulash?

Goulash is a slow-cooked beef stew with onions, potatoes, carrots, and bell pepper in a rich paprika-infused sauce. The long simmering time makes the beef incredibly tender.

Where does Goulash come from?

Goulash originated with Hungarian shepherds in the 9th century and is now Hungary's national dish. UNESCO recognizes it as a protected cultural heritage recipe.

What are the main ingredients in Goulash?

Beef chuck, onions, garlic, sweet paprika (essential), caraway seeds, cumin, thyme, tomato paste, beef broth, potatoes, carrots, and bell pepper.

Any tips for making the best Goulash?

Use good quality sweet paprika as it's the soul of the dish. Brown the beef properly before stewing. Allow at least 1.5 hours of simmering for tender meat and melded flavors.

What do you serve with Goulash?

Traditionally served with egg noodles, sour cream dollops, crusty bread for soaking up the sauce, and fresh parsley garnish. Also pairs well with potato dumplings.

Goulash