Authentic Hungarian Beef Goulash with Dumplings

Authentic Hungarian Beef Goulash with Dumplings

➡️ Are you searching for authentic Hungarian goulash recipes? You don’t have to look further because on this website you’ll find out how to make beef goulash with dumplings. Have you heard of goulash and are you curious about what it is? Well, it’s a hearty beef stew cooked in Hungarian style.

➡️ Beef stew has been a staple food cooked in many regions of the globe for centuries. Hungary is no exception, given that beef is a staple food because the relief and climate allow cattle to be raised on a large scale. My easy Hungarian goulash recipe enables you to cook an old-fashioned beef stew with onions, tomatoes, and paprika in an authentic Hungarian way.

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Hungarian Beef Goulash with Dumplings from Scratch

➡️ Cooking beef goulash is an easy task even if you need a lot of time until you can serve it. Anyway, the preparation of the ingredients does not require much time and then there is no need to stay in the kitchen until the goulash is cooked. Learn how to make beef stew from scratch using the authentic Hungarian beef goulash recipe with dumplings!

Authentic Hungarian Beef Goulash with Dumplings

Authentic Hungarian Beef Goulash with Dumplings

Authentic Hungarian Beef Goulash with Dumplings is a hearty and flavorful dish that hails from the heart of Hungary's culinary tradition. This classic Hungarian stew features tender chunks of beef simmered to perfection in a rich and savory paprika-infused broth. The result is a melt-in-your-mouth experience that's both comforting and deeply satisfying.
But what truly sets this dish apart is the addition of dumplings, which add a delightful twist to the traditional goulash. These soft and doughy dumplings are cooked until they become light and fluffy, soaking up the delicious flavors of the stew.
The combination of tender beef, aromatic paprika, and pillowy dumplings creates a symphony of taste and texture that's as inviting as it is unforgettable. Hungarian Beef Goulash with Dumplings is a culinary journey to Hungary, offering a taste of its rich history and the warmth of its kitchen. Whether enjoyed as a comforting family meal or served on special occasions, this dish is sure to leave a lasting impression with its harmonious blend of flavors and textures.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Hungarian
Servings 10 servings
Calories

Ingredients
  

For the Goulash:

  • 70/2 oz/kg beef or veal, cut into larger cubes
  • 28/800 oz/g yellow onions
  • 2 tbsp sunflower oil
  • 3 tbsp paprika
  • ½ tsp dried marjoram
  • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
  • ½ tsp cumin powder
  • 2 dried bay leaves
  • 14/400 oz/g peeled tomatoes
  • 27/800 fl oz/ml tomato broth/tomato juice
  • salt and ground black pepper to taste
  • some water or beef broth for simmering

For Dumplings:

  • 11/300 oz/g all-purpose flour
  • a little cold water
  • 2 tbsp sunflower oil
  • 2 tbsp pork lard to fry the dumplings (you can use sunflower oil instead)
  • fresh dill and/or sour cream for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

  • cut the beef into larger cubes
  • peel and chop the onions
  • put both meat and onions into a large crockpot
  • pour 1-2 spoons of oil and some water just to cover the ingredients
  • simmer ingredients over a very high temperature for about 10-15 minutes or until they are partly softened
  • add paprika when the water almost dropped completely and then sear the ingredients for about 20-30 seconds by stirring continuously, add a bit more oil if necessary
  • add marjoram, nutmeg, cumin, and bay leaves
  • reduce temperature to low and add peeled tomatoes, tomato broth, and some water or beef broth to fill up the pot about two thirds
  • season the stew with some salt and pepper to taste, place the lid, then simmer for about 1.5-2 hours, mix occasionally
  • the beef goulash is ready when the meat is very tender and the sauce dropped significantly
  • right before the beef goulash is ready, start preparing the flour dumplings
  • mix flour with some water to get a viscous paste, season with salt to taste
  • bring a large and tall pot with water to boil, add just a bit of oil and some salt to taste
  • when the water is bubbling slightly, take small pieces of dumpling dough with a teaspoon and drop them into the hot water, continue until you finish the entire dough batter
  • reduce temperature to medium-low and boil the dumplings until they are soft and rise to the water surface (about 4-5 minutes)
  • remove dumplings from the water, and drain them well
  • put some oil or pork lard into a skillet over a very high temperature, wait to get hot, then add dumplings and fry them for about 2-3 minutes
  • to serve, put some dumplings on a plate and 1-2 ladles of beef goulash over them
  • top the dish with some chopped fresh dill/parsley and/or sour cream

Notes

Cooking Tips for the Best Results:

1. Choose the Right Cut of Beef: Select a well-marbled cut of beef, such as chuck or stew meat, for goulash. These cuts are perfect for slow cooking and will become tender and flavorful as they simmer in the stew.
2. Sear the Beef: Before simmering the beef in the stew, take the time to sear it in a hot pan. Searing caramelizes the surface of the meat, adding depth of flavor to the goulash.
3. Use High-Quality Paprika: Hungarian paprika is the star ingredient in this dish, so invest in high-quality paprika for the best flavor. The choice between sweet, hot, or smoked paprika depends on your preference for spiciness and smokiness.
4. Slow and Low Cooking: Goulash benefits from slow, gentle cooking. Use a low simmer and allow it to cook for an extended period, letting the flavors meld and the beef become incredibly tender.
5. Dumpling Placement: When adding the dumplings to the goulash, be mindful of their placement. Gently drop spoonfuls of dumpling dough onto the surface of the simmering stew. This ensures they cook evenly and absorb the flavorful broth without sinking too quickly.

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FAQs about Hungarian Beef Goulash

What is Hungarian goulash?

Hungarian goulash, also known as Gulyás, is a traditional Hungarian stew made with beef, onions, paprika, and other spices. It is a hearty and flavorful dish that is popular in Hungarian cuisine. Goulash is often associated with Hungary and is considered one of the country’s national dishes.

What are the key ingredients in Hungarian beef goulash?

The main ingredients in Hungarian beef goulash are beef, onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, and a generous amount of Hungarian sweet paprika, which gives the dish its characteristic deep red color and rich flavor. Other common ingredients include garlic, caraway seeds, and beef broth or stock. Some variations may also include potatoes or other vegetables based on personal preference.

How do I make Hungarian beef goulash?

To make Hungarian beef goulash, start by browning beef cubes in a large pot with a little oil. Once the beef is browned, add diced onions and sauté until they become translucent. Next, add the paprika, garlic, caraway seeds, and bell peppers, and stir to coat the ingredients. Pour in enough beef broth or stock to cover the meat, and add diced tomatoes. Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for a couple of hours, or until the beef becomes tender and the flavors have melded together. Adjust the seasoning if needed, and serve the goulash hot.

What type of beef is best for Hungarian beef goulash?

Hungarian Beef Goulash is traditionally made with stewing beef or chuck roast, which contains enough connective tissue to become tender and flavorful when slow-cooked. These cuts are well-suited for long cooking times and develop a rich, hearty flavor. However, you can also use other cuts of beef suitable for slow cooking, such as beef shank or beef brisket.

Can I make Hungarian beef goulash in a slow cooker or instant pot?

Yes, Hungarian beef goulash can be made in a slow cooker or instant pot for added convenience. If using a slow cooker, simply follow the recipe instructions, combining all the ingredients in the pot and setting it to low heat for several hours until the beef is tender. For an instant pot, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cooking beef stew or use the pressure cook function for a shorter cooking time.

What are some common variations or additions to Hungarian beef goulash?

Hungarian beef goulash can be customized to suit individual tastes. Some common variations or additions include adding diced potatoes for extra heartiness, including carrots or other root vegetables, or adding a touch of sour cream or vinegar at the end of cooking to provide a slightly tangy flavor. Some recipes may also call for the addition of marjoram or bay leaves for additional aroma and flavor.

What can I serve with Hungarian beef goulash?

Hungarian beef goulash is traditionally served with Hungarian-style dumplings called nokedli or galuska, which are small egg-based dumplings. It can also be enjoyed with crusty bread, rice, or mashed potatoes. Additionally, a side salad or pickles can be served alongside to provide a refreshing contrast. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley for added freshness and color.

Related Hungarian Goulash Recipes and Culinary Articles

➡️ Goulash is probably the most famous food recipe in Hungary. Its popularity has crossed the borders of the country and today this beef stew has become known almost all over the world. Besides Hungary, other Eastern European countries such as Slovakia consider goulash as their national food.

➡️ Enjoy cooking authentic Hungarian beef goulash from scratch! For additional info, read more on goulash. I also recommend other delicious Hungarian goulash recipes available on this website (see below.)


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