Goulash, a hearty stew with roots tracing back to the Hungarian plains, is a dish that has warmed the hearts and bellies of people across Europe for centuries. Originally a staple for Hungarian shepherds, this rich and flavorful stew combines tender beef, aromatic onions, vibrant spices, and a touch of red wine to create a comforting meal that embodies the essence of home cooking. Our recipe takes you through each step of crafting an authentic Hungarian Goulash that will become a beloved staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
- Beef: 1 kg (2.2 lbs), cut into cubes
- Onion: 700 g (1.5 lbs), chopped
- Vegetable oil: 4 tablespoons (60 ml)
- Salt: To taste
- Black pepper: To taste
- Thyme: 2-3 sprigs, finely chopped
- Sage: 2-3 sprigs, finely chopped
- Rosemary: 2-3 sprigs, finely chopped
- Cumin: 1 teaspoon, ground
- Sweet paprika: 1 tablespoon
- Hot pepper: 2/3 teaspoon, ground
- Tomato concentrate: 2 tablespoons
- Red wine: 300 ml (1 1/4 cups)
- Water: 300 ml (1 1/4 cups)
- Bay leaves: 3
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Chop the onions finely and set them aside in a bowl. Cut the beef into uniform cubes, which will ensure even cooking. Finely chop the thyme, sage, and rosemary.
Step 2: Sauté the Bacon and Beef
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over high heat. Add the sliced bacon and fry for about 3 to 4 minutes until it becomes crispy and releases its fat. Remove the bacon and set it aside. In the same pot, add half of the beef cubes and fry them on high heat for 7 to 8 minutes until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and repeat with the remaining half.
Step 3: Cooking the Onions
Once all the beef is browned and set aside, add the chopped onions to the pot. Reduce the heat to medium and sauté the onions for 10 to 12 minutes until they become soft and golden brown. This process helps to build the base flavor of the goulash.
Step 4: Seasoning and Combining
Return the browned beef to the pot with the onions. Add salt, black pepper, and the finely chopped thyme, sage, and rosemary. Sprinkle in the cumin and sweet paprika, then stir well to coat the meat and onions with the spices. Continue to cook on medium heat for about 20 to 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Adding Heat and Tomato Concentrate
After the initial simmering, add the hot pepper for a touch of heat. Stir in the tomato concentrate, mixing it well with the meat and onions. Pour in the red wine, which will deglaze the pot, lifting all the flavorful bits stuck to the bottom. Allow the mixture to simmer for 2 to 3 minutes, letting the alcohol evaporate slightly.
Step 6: Incorporating Liquids and Bay Leaves
Pour in the hot water and stir well to combine. Add the bay leaves to the pot, which will infuse the goulash with a subtle aromatic note. Partially cover the pot with a lid and let it cook on low heat for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure that the meat does not stick to the bottom.
Step 7: Final Simmering
After the first 30 minutes, check the consistency of the goulash. If needed, add more beef broth or hot water to maintain a thick, stew-like consistency. Stir the goulash and continue to cook for another 30 minutes, partially covered.
Step 8: Finishing Touches
Check the beef for tenderness after the second 30-minute cooking interval. If the meat is not yet soft and falling apart, add a bit more water or broth and continue to cook in 10-minute increments until it reaches your desired level of tenderness.
Step 9: Serving
Once the beef is tender and the flavors have fully developed, your goulash is ready to serve. Remove the bay leaves before serving. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or additional thyme, alongside traditional accompaniments like crusty bread, potatoes, or a dollop of sour cream.
Nutrition Information
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 300g)
- Servings: 6
- Calories: 450
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
- Sodium: 550mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
- Protein: 40g
Conclusion
This authentic Hungarian Goulash recipe brings together simple ingredients with aromatic herbs and spices to create a rich, hearty stew that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a cold day or impress guests with a taste of traditional Hungarian cuisine, this goulash is sure to satisfy. With its deep flavors and tender meat, it’s a dish that speaks to the heart, embodying the comfort and warmth of home-cooked meals. Enjoy the journey of preparing this classic dish, and savor every bite of this delicious goulash that has stood the test of time.
