Hungarian beef goulash is a hearty, comforting dish that's perfect for a cozy dinner. This classic recipe is a symphony of rich flavors, with tender beef chunks, earthy vegetables, and a luscious, savory broth. It's a great way to warm up on a cold night and bring a taste of Hungary to your table.
Photos of Easy Hungarian Beef Goulash Recipe
Some ingredients in this recipe might not be common staples in your pantry. Hungarian sweet paprika is essential for an authentic taste and can be found in the spice aisle. Worcestershire sauce adds depth to the flavor, which is usually located near condiments. Lastly, red wine vinegar can be found with other vinegars or in the salad dressing section.
Ingredients for Easy Hungarian Beef Goulash Recipe
Chuck roast: A flavorful cut of beef perfect for slow cooking.
Kosher salt: Enhances the flavor of the beef.
Coarse ground black pepper: Adds a bit of spice and depth to the dish.
Hungarian sweet paprika: Provides the signature flavor of the goulash.
Vegetable oil: Used for browning the beef.
Yellow onions: Adds sweetness and depth to the broth.
Garlic: Infuses the dish with aromatic flavor.
Yukon potatoes: Adds heartiness and texture to the goulash.
Carrots: Brings a sweet, earthy flavor to the dish.
Tomato paste: Thickens the broth and adds a rich umami flavor.
Worcestershire sauce: Adds complexity and a slight tang to the goulash.
Brown sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomatoes and vinegar.
Red wine vinegar: Adds a touch of brightness and acidity.
Beef broth: The base of the rich, savory broth.
One reader, Katrina Drew says:
This easy Hungarian beef goulash recipe is a winner! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the beef turns out perfectly tender. It's a hearty meal that's simple to prepare and absolutely delicious. Highly recommend!
Techniques Required for Making Easy Hungarian Beef Goulash
How to brown beef cubes: Heat oil in a large Dutch oven on medium-high heat and brown the beef cubes well on all sides for about 5 to 6 minutes. How to cook onions and garlic until translucent: Lower the heat to medium and cook the onions and garlic in the pot until they become translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. How to pre-heat oven: Set your oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit and allow it to reach the desired temperature before placing the dish inside. How to sear beef cubes: Coat the beef cubes with salt, pepper, and paprika, then sear them in hot oil until they are browned on all sides.
How To Make Hungarian Beef Goulash
If you are in the mood for a flavorful beef stew, try this Hungarian beef goulash made rich and spicy with generous amounts of paprika. Try it at home.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 4lbschuck roast
- 1½tspkosher salt
- ½tspcoarse ground black pepper
- 3tbspHungarian sweet paprika
- ⅓cupvegetable oil
- 1yellow onions,chopped
- 2clovesgarlic,minced
- 4medium yukon potatoes
- 4medium carrots
- 6oztomato paste
- 1tbspworcestershire sauce
- 2tbspbrown sugar,packed
- 1tbspred wine vinegar
- 3cupsbeef broth
Instructions
-
Pre-heat oven to 325 degrees F.
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Add the salt, pepper and paprika to the chunks of beef, coating them well.
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Add oil to a large Dutch oven on medium high heat and brown the beef cubes well on all sides, about 5 to 6 minutes then remove them from the pan.
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Lower the heat to medium and add the onions and garlic to the pot and cook until translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes.
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Add in the potatoes, carrots, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, red wine vinegar, beef broth and the seared beef cubes, stirring well.
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Cover and put into the oven for 2 hours or until meat is fork tender.
Nutrition
- Calories: 533.33kcal
- Fat: 22.12g
- Saturated Fat: 5.58g
- Trans Fat: 0.63g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 12.83g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.24g
- Carbohydrates: 32.60g
- Fiber: 5.28g
- Sugar: 8.70g
- Protein: 53.74g
- Cholesterol: 145.15mg
- Sodium: 918.32mg
- Calcium: 80.83mg
- Potassium: 1948.73mg
- Iron: 8.57mg
- Vitamin A: 340.59µg
- Vitamin C: 29.14mg
Key Technique Tip for Making Easy Hungarian Beef Goulash
When browning the beef, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. Overcrowding can cause the meat to steam rather than sear, which will prevent the development of a rich, caramelized crust that adds depth of flavor to the goulash. If necessary, brown the beef in batches to ensure each piece gets a proper sear.
Time-Saving Tips for Making Hungarian Beef Goulash
Pre-cut vegetables: Chop the onions, potatoes, and carrots in advance and store them in the fridge.
Use pre-minced garlic: Save time by using store-bought minced garlic instead of peeling and chopping fresh cloves.
Batch sear beef: Sear the beef in batches to ensure even browning and avoid overcrowding the pan.
One-pot cooking: Use a large dutch oven to cook everything in one pot, reducing cleanup time.
Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out the spices, tomato paste, worcestershire sauce, and brown sugar before starting to streamline the cooking process.
Substitute Ingredients For Easy Hungarian Beef Goulash Recipe
chuck roast - Substitute with brisket: Brisket has a similar marbling and texture, making it a good alternative for slow-cooked dishes.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and flavor profile, making it a suitable replacement.
coarse ground black pepper - Substitute with fine ground black pepper: Fine ground black pepper can be used in a slightly lesser amount to achieve a similar level of spiciness.
hungarian sweet paprika - Substitute with regular paprika: Regular paprika can be used, though it may lack the specific sweetness of Hungarian paprika.
vegetable oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a similar smoke point and neutral flavor, making it a good alternative.
yellow onions - Substitute with white onions: White onions have a similar texture and slightly milder flavor, suitable for most recipes.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Use 1/8 teaspoon of garlic powder for each clove of garlic as a convenient alternative.
yukon potatoes - Substitute with russet potatoes: Russet potatoes have a similar starchy texture, making them a good substitute in stews.
carrots - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a similar texture and slightly sweeter flavor, making them a suitable alternative.
tomato paste - Substitute with tomato sauce: Use double the amount of tomato sauce to achieve a similar depth of flavor.
worcestershire sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce provides a similar umami flavor, though it lacks the tanginess of Worcestershire sauce.
brown sugar - Substitute with white sugar: Use white sugar in a slightly lesser amount, as it is sweeter than brown sugar.
red wine vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a similar acidity and fruity undertone, making it a good alternative.
beef broth - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth can be used in a pinch, though it may result in a slightly lighter flavor.
Best Way to Present Hungarian Beef Goulash
Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the Hungarian beef goulash in a small, deep dish to highlight the rich, hearty nature of the dish without overwhelming the diner.
Use decoration: Garnish with a sprig of fresh parsley and a dollop of sour cream to add a touch of color and creaminess, enhancing both the visual appeal and the flavor profile.
Layer the ingredients: Place the potatoes and carrots at the bottom of the dish, followed by the tender chunks of beef, and finish with a ladle of the rich broth to create a visually appealing and structured presentation.
Use high-quality dishware: Serve the goulash in a pristine white porcelain bowl to contrast with the deep, vibrant colors of the dish, making it visually striking.
Add texture: Include a side of crispy bread or croutons to provide a contrasting texture that complements the tender meat and vegetables.
Highlight the aroma: Serve the dish with a cloche to trap the aromatic steam, allowing diners to experience the full bouquet of the paprika, garlic, and onions as they lift the cover.
Incorporate a modern twist: Add a drizzle of balsamic reduction or a few drops of truffle oil on top to introduce a contemporary element that elevates the traditional flavors.
Balance the colors: Ensure the carrots and potatoes are cut into uniform, elegant shapes to create a balanced and harmonious color palette on the plate.
Serve with a complementary beverage: Pair the dish with a glass of robust red wine to enhance the rich, savory flavors of the goulash.
Use microgreens: Sprinkle a few microgreens on top for a fresh, vibrant touch that adds both visual appeal and a hint of freshness to the dish.
Essential Tools for Making Easy Hungarian Beef Goulash
Dutch oven: A heavy-duty pot with a tight-fitting lid, perfect for browning meat and slow-cooking the goulash in the oven.
Chef's knife: Essential for cutting the chuck roast, onions, garlic, potatoes, and carrots.
Cutting board: Provides a safe and stable surface for chopping all the ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the salt, pepper, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and red wine vinegar accurately.
Measuring cups: Necessary for measuring the vegetable oil and beef broth.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the ingredients together in the Dutch oven.
Tongs: Useful for turning and removing the beef cubes from the Dutch oven after browning.
Oven mitts: Protect your hands when placing the Dutch oven into the pre-heated oven and removing it after cooking.
Mixing bowl: Handy for tossing the beef cubes with salt, pepper, and paprika before browning.
Garlic press: Makes mincing the garlic cloves quick and easy.
Peeler: Useful for peeling the carrots and potatoes before chopping them.
Ladle: Helps in serving the goulash once it's ready.
How To Store and Freeze Hungarian Beef Goulash
- Allow the goulash to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled goulash to an airtight container and keep it refrigerated for up to 4 days.
- To freeze the goulash:
- Portion the cooled goulash into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion during freezing.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents.
- Place the containers or bags in the freezer, laying them flat for even freezing.
- Frozen goulash can be stored for up to 3 months.
- To reheat the goulash:
- If frozen, thaw the goulash overnight in the refrigerator.
- Transfer the thawed or refrigerated goulash to a pot or Dutch oven.
- Heat the goulash over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through and the meat and vegetables are tender.
- If the goulash appears too thick, add a small amount of beef broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed before serving.
- Tip: Goulash often tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together. Reheating the goulash slowly on the stovetop helps to maintain its texture and rich flavor.
How To Reheat Leftover Hungarian Beef Goulash
Stovetop method: transfer the leftover goulash to a pot or saucepan. Add a splash of beef broth or water to help loosen the sauce and prevent it from drying out. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until the goulash is heated through and the meat is tender. This method allows you to control the consistency of the sauce and ensures even heating.
Oven method: preheat your oven to 350°f (175°c). Transfer the leftover goulash to an oven-safe dish and cover it with a lid or aluminum foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and reheat for 20-30 minutes, or until the goulash is heated through and the meat is tender. This method is ideal for larger portions and helps maintain the original texture of the vegetables and meat.
Microwave method: transfer the leftover goulash to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Microwave on high power in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring between each interval, until the goulash is heated through. This method is quick and convenient but may result in uneven heating and a slightly altered texture.
Slow cooker method: transfer the leftover goulash to a slow cooker. Add a small amount of beef broth or water if needed to prevent the goulash from drying out. Cover and reheat on low heat for 1-2 hours, or until the goulash is heated through and the meat is tender. This method is ideal for reheating larger portions and helps maintain the tenderness of the meat.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to stir the goulash occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent scorching. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, as flavors may have mellowed during storage. If the goulash appears too thick, add a small amount of beef broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.
Random Fact About Hungarian Beef Goulash
A traditional Hungarian goulash is often made with beef and seasoned with paprika, which is a staple spice in Hungarian cuisine.
Is Making Hungarian Beef Goulash at Home Economical?
This Hungarian beef goulash recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The chuck roast is an affordable cut of beef, and the vegetables like potatoes, carrots, and onions are inexpensive staples. The additional ingredients such as tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth are also budget-friendly. Overall, this dish scores a solid 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30 USD, making it a hearty and economical choice.
Is Hungarian Beef Goulash Healthy or Unhealthy?
The Hungarian beef goulash recipe, while hearty and flavorful, may not be the healthiest option due to a few factors:
- High in saturated fat: The recipe uses chuck roast, which is a fattier cut of beef, and vegetable oil for browning the meat, contributing to a higher saturated fat content.
- Significant sodium content: With added salt and the use of beef broth, the dish may have a higher sodium content than recommended for a balanced diet.
- Limited vegetable variety: Although the recipe includes onions, garlic, potatoes, and carrots, it could benefit from a greater variety of vegetables to increase its nutritional value.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Opt for a leaner cut of beef, such as sirloin or round roast, to reduce the overall fat content
- Use a smaller amount of oil or choose a healthier alternative, like olive oil, for browning the meat
- Reduce the added salt and opt for low-sodium beef broth to control the dish's sodium content
- Incorporate a wider variety of vegetables, such as bell peppers, celery, or parsnips, to boost the fiber and nutrient profile of the goulash
- Consider serving the goulash with a side of steamed greens or a fresh salad to balance out the meal and add more vitamins and minerals
By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a more nutritious version of this classic Hungarian dish without compromising on taste.
Editor's Thoughts on This Easy Hungarian Beef Goulash Recipe
This Hungarian beef goulash recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish, perfect for a comforting meal. The use of sweet paprika adds a distinct depth, while the combination of beef, potatoes, and carrots creates a satisfying texture. Browning the beef enhances its richness, and the slow oven cooking ensures tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat. The addition of Worcestershire sauce, brown sugar, and red wine vinegar balances the flavors beautifully. Overall, it's a well-rounded recipe that brings out the essence of traditional Hungarian cuisine with ease.
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Why trust this Easy Hungarian Beef Goulash Recipe:
This Hungarian beef goulash recipe is a time-tested classic, perfect for cozy dinners. Using chuck roast ensures tender, flavorful meat, while Hungarian sweet paprika adds authentic depth. The combination of potatoes, carrots, and beef broth creates a hearty, satisfying dish. With simple steps and common ingredients, it's accessible for any home cook. Trust in the balance of seasonings and the slow-cooking method to deliver a comforting, delicious meal every time.
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