Hungarian Beef Goulash
Hungarian Beef Goulash is a hearty, flavorful stew featuring tender beef shanks, aromatic paprika, and fresh vegetables, slow-cooked to perfection. Its rich, smoky taste makes it an ideal comfort dish for family gatherings or cozy dinners, offering a taste of authentic Hungarian cuisine.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a Dutch oven, brown beef shanks in hot oil until browned on all sides.
- Remove meat and bones to a plate.
- In the remaining drippings, cook the onion until tender.
- Stir in paprika and cook for 1 minute.
- Return beef and bones to the Dutch oven.
- Add celery, carrots, tomatoes with their liquid, salt, and 5 cups of water to boiling.
- Reduce heat to simmer and cover.
- Cook for 40 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine or a hint of Worcestershire sauce while cooking. If you don't have beef shanks, chuck roast works well as a substitute. Adjust the paprika to your taste; sweet or smoked varieties can add depth. To enhance the dish, serve over egg noodles or rice, similar to Beef Stroganoff (Governor Jim Guy Tucker'S Favorite Recipe)(Grandma'S Recipe).
Serving Suggestions
Serve the goulash hot, garnished with chopped parsley for a fresh touch. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or egg noodles. This dish also goes well with a glass of red wine or a light lager, enhancing the flavors of the rich beef.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if necessary to maintain moisture. For longer storage, freeze the goulash for up to 3 months, then thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hungarian Beef Goulash contains roughly 874 calories, with 10g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 69g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (68% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), and iron (43% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1409mg per serving (61% 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 other cuts of beef for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute beef shanks with chuck roast, brisket, or even stew meat. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time if using different cuts, as some may require longer to become tender.
How can I make this goulash thicker?
To thicken the goulash, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a bit of cold water and stir it into the simmering pot. Alternatively, let it cook uncovered for a bit longer to reduce the liquid.
Is it possible to make this dish in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the beef and onions in a skillet beforehand, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours, adding vegetables midway through for optimal texture.
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).