Name: Traditional Hungarian Goulash: Deeply Flavorful, Comforting, and Authentic
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: hungarian
Ingredients: 4 tablespoons olive oil; 2½ pounds stewing beef, cut into 1-inch cubes; 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste; 1 teaspoon pepper, or to taste; 2 large onions, roughly chopped; 5 cloves garlic, minced; 3 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika; 1 teaspoon ground caraway seeds; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 3 bay leaves; 1 teaspoon brown sugar; ½ cup tomato sauce; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 4 cups no-salt-added beef broth; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

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Hungarian Goulash is the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table. Rich with bold paprika, melt-in-your-mouth beef, and aromatic herbs, this stew is more than a comfort food—it’s a culinary tradition that goes back generations. Made with simple ingredients but layered with complex flavor, this hearty goulash simmers slowly until everything becomes silky, tender, and soul-satisfyingly savory.

Whether you’re diving into a steaming bowl on a cold winter night or looking for a make-ahead dish to wow your guests, Hungarian Goulash delivers. This version is deeply rooted in traditional techniques but includes a few modern upgrades to maximize flavor and ease. And yes, your kitchen will smell incredible.

Traditional Hungarian Goulash: Deeply Flavorful, Comforting, and Authentic

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Deep, Authentic Flavor: Made with sweet Hungarian paprika, caraway, and balsamic vinegar for rich, layered taste.
Fall-Apart Tender Beef: Slow-simmered for two hours, resulting in meat so tender it melts in your mouth.
Meal Prep Gold: Goulash tastes even better the next day and freezes beautifully.
Versatile: Serve it over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, spaetzle, or enjoy it with crusty bread.
Customizable: Easily make it your own with different spices or beef cuts.

Ingredients

tip: you can find full ingredients and measurements list in the recipe card below

4 tablespoons olive oil
2½ pounds stewing beef (cut into 1-inch pieces)
1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
1 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
2 large onions, roughly chopped
5 cloves garlic, minced
3 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika
1 teaspoon ground caraway seeds
1 teaspoon dried oregano
3 bay leaves
1 teaspoon brown sugar
½ cup tomato sauce
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
4 cups no-salt-added beef broth
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Sear the Beef
In a large Dutch oven or deep skillet, heat olive oil over high heat until shimmering. Add beef in a single layer (work in batches if needed). Season with salt and pepper. Sear until browned on all sides, then remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Reduce heat to medium-high. Add onions and garlic to the same pot, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened and translucent. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom as they cook.

Step 3: Add the Spices
Lower heat to medium-low. Add paprika, ground caraway seeds, oregano, bay leaves, and brown sugar. Stir continuously for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Broth
Stir in tomato sauce, balsamic vinegar, and beef broth. Mix well to incorporate all the flavors and deglaze the pot.

Step 5: Slow Simmer
Return the seared beef to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low. Cover and simmer for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fork-tender.

Step 6: Season to Taste
Check for seasoning and adjust with additional salt, pepper, paprika, or vinegar to taste. Remove bay leaves.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot with noodles, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread.

Variations

More Veggies: Add chopped bell peppers, carrots, or potatoes during the last hour of cooking.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for heat.
Wine Base: Replace ½ cup of the beef broth with dry red wine for deeper flavor.
Lard Instead of Oil: For old-school authenticity, use rendered pork fat instead of olive oil.

Heating and Storage

Storage: Cool completely before transferring to airtight containers. Refrigerate up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating: Warm gently over medium heat on the stovetop, or microwave in short intervals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! After searing the beef and sautéing aromatics, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours.

What’s the best cut of beef for goulash?

Chuck roast or beef brisket are ideal. They’re tough cuts that become tender through slow cooking.

Is Hungarian Goulash spicy?

No, it’s not spicy but deeply flavorful. You can add heat with cayenne if you like.

Can I use smoked paprika?

You can, but use it in combination with sweet paprika. Too much smoked paprika can overpower the dish.

What’s a good side dish for goulash?

Serve over egg noodles, spaetzle, mashed potatoes, or with a slice of rustic bread.

Can I skip the caraway seeds?

Yes, but they add a signature flavor. Substitute fennel seeds if desired, or omit entirely.

How can I thicken the goulash?

Let it simmer uncovered for the last 15 minutes to reduce the sauce. Alternatively, mash a few pieces of beef or stir in a tablespoon of flour mixed with water.

Can I use chicken instead of beef?

Not traditional, but yes—use boneless thighs for best texture. Cook time will be shorter (around 45 minutes to 1 hour).

Is it gluten-free?

Yes, the stew itself is gluten-free. Just make sure your broth and tomato sauce have no additives. Pair with gluten-free sides if needed.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute beef with mushrooms or root vegetables and use vegetable broth. You can also use plant-based meat alternatives.

Conclusion

This traditional Hungarian Goulash is rich, hearty, and filled with deep flavor from paprika, herbs, and slow-cooked beef. It’s a dish that honors old-world comfort with modern ease. Whether you serve it on a quiet evening or as the centerpiece of a dinner gathering, it’s sure to warm hearts and satisfy appetites. Give it time, let it simmer, and you’ll be rewarded with the ultimate bowl of comfort.