Hearty Hungarian Goulash
A comforting Hungarian-inspired beef stew with rich paprika flavor, slow-simmered until tender, perfect for cozy family dinners and hearty gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven or large saucepan, heat oil and brown the beef cubes. Drain excess oil.
- Add Lipton onion-mushroom or onion soup mix, paprika, blended with stewed tomatoes, to the beef.
- Simmer, covered, stirring occasionally, for 1 1/2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
- Stir in a mixture of flour blended with water to create a paste (or cornstarch slurry).
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider searing the beef cubes in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. If you don't have Lipton soup mix, you can substitute with homemade onion soup mix or simply use sautéed onions and garlic with beef broth. Adjust the paprika to your taste; smoked paprika can add a delicious twist. To enhance the dish, add sliced bell peppers or carrots.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Hearty Hungarian Goulash over egg noodles, rice, or mashed potatoes for a comforting meal. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh green salad to balance the richness. This dish also pairs beautifully with Galomki - Cabbage Rolls for a traditional feast. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover goulash can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simmer on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish, stirring halfway through for even heating. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making leftovers even tastier.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hearty Hungarian Goulash contains roughly 471 calories, with 14g protein, 98g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (52% of the Daily Value), iron (42% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1850mg per serving (80% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe?
Absolutely! While beef cubes are great for tenderness, you can also use chuck roast, which becomes very tender after long cooking. Just cut it into chunks and follow the same instructions. Avoid lean cuts like sirloin as they may dry out during cooking.
Is it possible to make this goulash in a slow cooker?
Yes! To make Hearty Hungarian Goulash(Crock-Pot), brown the beef and then transfer all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender. Add the flour and water mixture during the last 30 minutes to thicken the sauce.
What can I do if my goulash is too thick?
If your goulash becomes too thick, simply stir in a little more water or beef broth until you reach your desired consistency. Be sure to heat it gently while stirring to incorporate the liquid evenly. Adjust seasoning if needed after adding more liquid.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).