classic fashioned goulash

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Skill Level: Medium
Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or lard
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 ½ pounds beef chuck or stewing beef, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika (for authentic flavor)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added depth)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 4 cups beef broth (or enough to cover the meat)
• 2 large carrots, sliced
• 1 bell pepper (red or yellow), chopped
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried marjoram (optional, for a more traditional touch)

Instructions

1. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until they are golden and softened, about 5-6 minutes.
   • Add the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Brown the Beef:
   • Add the beef cubes to the pot and season generously with salt, pepper, and both types of paprika.
   • Sear the beef on all sides until it’s browned.
3. Add Tomato Paste and Broth:
   • Stir in the tomato paste, then pour in the beef broth until it covers the beef completely. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer:
   • Add the bay leaf, caraway seeds, and marjoram. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover and let it cook for about 45 minutes.
5. Add Vegetables:
   • Add the carrots, bell pepper, and potatoes. Cover again and continue simmering for another 30-45 minutes, or until the beef and vegetables are tender.
6. Final Seasoning:
   • Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or paprika if desired.
7. Serve:
   • Remove the bay leaf, then ladle the goulash into bowls. Serve with crusty bread, egg noodles, or a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Nutrition Information (per serving)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 25g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fat: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg