Introduction
Goulash Soup is a traditional Hungarian dish known for its rich flavors and comforting warmth. It’s a savory soup made with tender chunks of beef, hearty vegetables, and plenty of sweet paprika, which gives the dish its distinctive flavor and vibrant color. This soup is often enjoyed during colder months and is a staple in Hungarian cuisine. It’s typically served with crusty bread or dumplings, making it a filling meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) beef chuck or stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons sweet paprika (Hungarian paprika is preferred)
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
- 1-2 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 medium potato, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 4 cups beef broth (or water)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
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Sauté the Meat:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the browned meat and set aside.
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Cook the Aromatics:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
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Add Spices:
- Sprinkle the paprika and caraway seeds (if using) over the onions. Stir to combine, allowing the spices to toast for about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn the paprika, as it can become bitter.
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Combine Ingredients:
- Return the browned beef to the pot and mix well with the onions and spices. Add the carrots, potato, and red bell pepper. Pour in the beef broth and add the drained diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil.
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Simmer:
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 1-1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors meld together. Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if needed.
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Season and Serve:
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Once the soup is done, ladle it into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or dumplings on the side.
Health Notes
- Goulash Soup can be a nutritious option, providing protein from the beef and vitamins from the vegetables. However, be mindful of sodium content, especially if using store-bought broth or canned tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions
- Goulash Soup pairs well with fresh bread, sourdough, or traditional Hungarian dumplings (nokedli) for a complete meal.
Tips
- Paprika Quality: Use high-quality Hungarian paprika for the best flavor. Smoked paprika can also be added for a deeper taste.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like peas, green beans, or parsnips based on your preference.
- Make Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
- Thickening the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water and stir it into the soup during the last few minutes of cooking.
