Hungarian Goulash Soup(Not Just A Soup - A Meal!)
A hearty Hungarian goulash soup with tender beef, flavorful paprika, and aromatic spices, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim all visible fat from the round steak and brown it in olive oil and garlic in a skillet.
- Drain excess fat from the browned steak.
- Add the browned steak, tomato sauce, chopped onions, vinegar, beef bouillon, paprika, caraway seeds, marjoram, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and water to a stock pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and simmer for 2 hours or until the beef is tender and falls apart easily.
- Remove the steak, shred it into pieces, and return it to the pot.
- Add the diced potatoes and simmer until the potatoes are tender, approximately 1 hour.
- Serve hot in bowls with dark bread and unsalted butter.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the pot along with the other ingredients. If round steak isn't available, chuck roast or brisket can serve as excellent substitutes. Adjust the paprika based on your spice preference, and for an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. This dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the goulash hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with dark bread and unsalted butter, making it a complete meal. For a heartier side, try a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. This dish can also be complemented by a glass of red wine for an elevated dining experience.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm the goulash soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Hungarian Goulash Soup(Not Just A Soup - A Meal!) contains roughly 766 calories, with 23g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 32g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (64% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (64% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (47% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 967mg per serving (42% 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 in this goulash recipe?
Yes, while round steak is traditional, you can substitute with chuck roast or brisket for a different texture and flavor. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the cut you choose.
How can I thicken the goulash soup if it’s too watery?
If your goulash soup turns out too watery, you can thicken it by mixing a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water to create a slurry, then stirring it into the soup. Allow it to simmer for a few minutes until it reaches your desired consistency.
Can I make this goulash soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To make this goulash soup in a slow cooker, brown the steak and garlic in a skillet first, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the beef is tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.
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).