Hungarian Goulash Soup
Hungarian Goulash Soup offers hearty, flavorful beef and vegetable goodness infused with paprika, perfect for comforting meals on chilly days and suitable for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the lean beef into bite-sized cubes.
- Peel the onions and cut them into rings.
- Peel and slice the carrot.
- Wash the bell pepper, remove the seeds and inner membranes, then cut into strips.
- Keep the canned tomatoes in their juice and cut them into pieces.
- Melt the butter or margarine in a pot.
- Add the onions and meat, and cook while stirring for 5 minutes until browned.
- Add the carrots, bell pepper, stewed tomatoes, and spices (paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder).
- Mix everything well and stir in 1/2 quart of water.
- Cover the pot and simmer for 1 hour.
- Stir in half and half just before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine while cooking the meat. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the beef with mushrooms or lentils. Fresh herbs like thyme or bay leaf can enhance the taste. Adjust the paprika to your preference for spice, and feel free to add more vegetables like potatoes or zucchini for added nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Hungarian Goulash Soup with crusty bread or over egg noodles for a hearty meal. A dollop of sour cream on top adds creaminess. Pair it with a side salad for freshness, or enjoy it alongside a light appetizer like stuffed cabbage roll for a complete dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to thin the soup. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure it's cooled before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hungarian Goulash Soup contains roughly 224 calories, with 4g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (120% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (29% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 755mg per serving (33% 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 type of meat for goulash soup?
Yes, you can use pork or chicken instead of beef. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken will cook faster. For a unique twist, try game meats like venison for a robust flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the heat, add cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes along with the paprika. You can also incorporate diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to suit your taste preferences.
What can I serve with goulash soup?
This soup pairs well with various sides; consider serving it with hearty bread, a fresh green salad, or even a side of roasted vegetables. For a traditional touch, accompany it with a serving of dumplings or a classic side like French country-style beef stew.
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).