Hungarian Goulash (Gulyás)
Hungarian Goulash (Gulyás) is a rich and hearty beef stew infused with paprika, slow-simmered for deep flavor. This traditional dish is comforting, flavorful, and perfect for a satisfying meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 2 hours hrs
Total Time 2 hours hrs 15 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Eastern European, Hungarian
Large pot For slow simmering the goulash
Wooden Spoon For stirring and mixing ingredients
Ladle For serving the goulash
2 pounds beef chuck cut into bite-sized cubes 2 tablespoons vegetable oil for searing the beef 2 large onions diced 3 cloves garlic minced 3 tablespoons Hungarian paprika sweet or smoked, for authentic flavor 1 teaspoon caraway seeds ground or whole 1 can diced tomatoes with juices 2 medium bell peppers chopped (red or yellow) 4 cups beef broth low sodium preferred 2 large carrots sliced into rounds 3 medium potatoes peeled and cubed 2 bay leaves remove before serving 1 teaspoon salt adjust to taste ½ teaspoon black pepper freshly ground
Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until soft and golden brown.
Stir in minced garlic, then add the beef cubes. Sear the beef on all sides until browned.
Sprinkle in Hungarian paprika and caraway seeds, stirring well to coat the beef.
Add diced tomatoes and chopped bell peppers, then pour in the beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
Reduce heat, cover, and let cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
Add carrots and potatoes to the pot and continue simmering until they are tender.
Remove bay leaves, adjust seasoning, and serve warm.
For extra richness, add a splash of red wine while simmering.
Use high-quality Hungarian paprika for the best flavor.
Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors develop.
Keyword beef goulash, Hungarian goulash, paprika beef stew