Goulash, the quintessential Hungarian dish that warms hearts and bellies. A hearty stew made with tender chunks of meat, vegetables, and a rich paprika-spiced broth, it’s no wonder this comfort food has become a staple in many cuisines around the world. But let’s get back to its roots – Hungarian goulash, or “gulyás” as the locals call it, is more than just a meal, it’s a cultural phenomenon that brings people together.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 different takes on traditional Hungarian goulash recipes with a twist. From classic beef and pork variations to vegetarian and even game-based options, each dish adds its own unique spin to the original recipe. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a special occasion feast, there’s something on this list for everyone.
Classic Hungarian Beef Goulash with Paprika
This hearty beef stew is a staple of Hungarian cuisine, richly flavored with paprika and perfect for a cozy evening meal. Serve with crusty bread or egg noodles for a satisfying comfort food experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp caraway seeds
– 1 tsp ground paprika
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onions, garlic, caraway seeds, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the broth and red wine (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until the beef is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash with Root Vegetables
Warm up with this comforting slow cooker recipe that combines tender beef, aromatic spices, and a medley of root vegetables. This classic Hungarian dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a satisfying meal any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a skillet with 1 tablespoon of oil; set aside.
2. Add remaining ingredients to the slow cooker; stir to combine.
3. Add browned beef and stir well.
4. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
5. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
Hungarian Pork Goulash with Caraway Seeds
This traditional Hungarian dish is a staple of Eastern European cuisine, made with tender pork, rich spices, and the distinctive flavor of caraway seeds. Serve with crusty bread or over egg noodles for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown pork, then set aside.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, paprika, and caraway seeds; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add diced tomatoes, beef broth, browned pork, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer, covered, for 2 hours or until pork is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Spicy Hungarian Goulash with Hot Peppers
Spicy Hungarian Goulash with Hot Peppers: A hearty and flavorful stew that combines tender beef, sautéed onions, and a kick of heat from hot peppers. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a comforting meal for any time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium-hot hot peppers (e.g., Hungarian hot wax or jalapeño), sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sour cream and chopped fresh parsley for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the beef, then set aside.
3. Add more oil if needed, then sauté onions until caramelized (about 5 minutes).
4. Add hot peppers, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in diced tomatoes and beef broth; bring to a boil.
6. Return the beef to the pot; reduce heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with sour cream and parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Hungarian Chicken Goulash with Dumplings
A hearty and comforting Hungarian dish that combines tender chicken, rich goulash, and fluffy dumplings. This recipe is a staple of Hungarian cuisine, perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
2. Add chicken, potatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until the chicken is browned and the potatoes are tender.
3. Gradually stir in broth and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, mix flour, egg, and salt to make dumpling mixture.
5. Drop small spoonfuls of the mixture into the goulash, about 10-12 dumplings.
6. Simmer an additional 15 minutes or until dumplings are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Vegetarian Hungarian Goulash with Mushrooms
Experience the rich flavors of Hungary’s national dish, adapted for a vegetarian twist! This hearty goulash is perfect for a cozy night in or as a comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hungarian Lamb Goulash with Red Wine
This hearty stew is a staple of Hungarian cuisine, perfect for a cold winter’s night. Rich flavors and tender lamb make it a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 1 cup lamb broth or beef broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the lamb pieces on all sides, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add red wine, broth, tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return lamb to the pot; bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2-3 hours or until lamb is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Hungarian Goulash Soup with Noodles
This hearty soup is a staple of Hungarian cuisine, made with tender beef, rich vegetables, and comforting noodles. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 8 ounces egg noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in paprika, caraway seeds, and diced tomatoes. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in beef broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until beef is tender.
5. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and add to the soup.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Hungarian Venison Goulash with Juniper Berries
This hearty venison goulash is a classic Hungarian dish that combines the rich flavors of juniper berries and game meat. Perfect for a cold winter’s night, this recipe is sure to warm your belly and your soul.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound venison steaks or stewing pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine
– 2 juniper berries, crushed
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Sear the venison until browned, then remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 5 minutes.
4. Add broth, wine, juniper berries, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Return venison to pot and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Hungarian Goulash Stew with Sour Cream
Experience the rich flavors of traditional Hungarian cuisine with this comforting and aromatic goulash stew, served with a dollop of creamy sour cream. This hearty dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy gathering with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup sour cream
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the beef over medium-high heat until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onions, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Serve hot, topped with a dollop of sour cream.
Cooking Time: 2 hours (including browning time)
Hungarian Goulash with Smoked Sausage
This hearty dish is a staple of Hungarian cuisine, featuring smoked sausage and tender vegetables in a rich beef broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked sausage (such as kielbasa), sliced
– 2 pounds beef stew meat
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add beef stew meat and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
4. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to pot. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
5. Stir in paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Add diced tomatoes, beef broth, and cooked sausage and beef back into the pot.
7. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Hungarian Goulash with Sweet Peppers
This hearty and flavorful dish is a staple of Hungarian cuisine, made even more delicious by the addition of sweet peppers. The slow-cooked beef and vegetables create a rich and comforting meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 large sweet peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onions, garlic, sweet peppers, and paprika. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Hungarian Goulash with Potatoes and Carrots
This traditional Hungarian dish is a staple of comfort food, rich in flavor and satisfying to the soul. This recipe combines tender beef, potatoes, carrots, and vegetables in a savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cups beef broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened.
2. Add garlic, paprika, and caraway seeds; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add beef and cook until browned.
4. Add potatoes, carrots, and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Hungarian Goulash with Sauerkraut
A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional Hungarian goulash, this recipe adds a tangy kick from sauerkraut. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a comforting soup.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz macaroni or egg noodles
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a large pot over medium-high heat, breaking it up into small pieces.
2. Add onions, garlic, sauerkraut, diced tomatoes, beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
4. Cook macaroni or egg noodles according to package instructions. Serve with goulash.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Hungarian Goulash with Fresh Herbs
This classic Hungarian dish is a staple of comfort food, packed with tender beef, vegetables, and the brightness of fresh herbs. Serve it over egg noodles or crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley and dill, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add beef; cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
2. Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 8 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Return beef to the pot.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer; cook, covered, for 1 hour or until beef is tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley and dill.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Hungarian Goulash with Homemade Spaetzle
A hearty and flavorful Hungarian dish that combines tender beef and vegetables with a rich, savory broth, served alongside homemade spaetzle noodles.
Ingredients:
For the goulash:
– 1 lb beef stew meat
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 large celery stalk, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the spaetzle:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Water as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Add the onions, garlic, carrot, and celery to the pot, cooking until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the beef is tender.
5. Meanwhile, combine flour, eggs, and salt in a bowl. Gradually add water to form a smooth batter.
6. Cook the spaetzle noodles according to package instructions or by boiling them in salted water for 3-4 minutes or until they float.
7. Serve the goulash hot with the homemade spaetzle noodles.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Hungarian Goulash with Garlic and Onions
Experience the rich flavors of Hungary with this hearty goulash recipe, packed with tender beef, sautéed garlic and onions, and a hint of paprika.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef stew meat
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks celery, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and onions; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add beef, carrots, and celery; cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add diced tomatoes and beef broth; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 1/2 hours or until beef is tender.
7. Serve hot over egg noodles or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Hungarian Goulash with Tomato Paste
Savor the rich flavors of Hungary with this comforting goulash recipe, featuring tender beef and vegetables simmered in a savory tomato-based broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef cubes (chuck or round)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 can (6 oz) tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add beef cubes and brown on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
4. In the same pot, add tomato paste and stir to combine with any remaining oil. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add beef broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
6. Return browned beef to the pot and simmer, covered, for 1 hour or until meat is tender.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
Hungarian Goulash with Beer and Mustard
A hearty and flavorful take on the classic Hungarian goulash, this recipe adds a rich depth of flavor with beer and mustard. Perfect for a cozy evening or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beer (any type)
– 1/4 cup mustard (such as whole-grain or Dijon)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 2 cups beef broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
4. Pour in the beer, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.
6. Add the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Hungarian Goulash with Roasted Garlic
This traditional Hungarian dish is a staple of Eastern European cuisine, made rich and aromatic by the addition of roasted garlic. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, peeled and roasted (see note)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roast the garlic cloves for 30 minutes, or until soft and mashed.
2. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onions and cook until they start to caramelize, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the roasted garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2-3 hours or until the meat is tender.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Summary
Get ready to warm up with these 20 hearty Hungarian goulash recipes! From classic beef and pork options to innovative twists featuring lamb, venison, and even vegetarian versions, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to add a kick with hot peppers or a rich depth with red wine and juniper berries. Learn how to make dumplings, spaetzle, and more to accompany your favorite goulash recipes. Whether you’re looking for a comforting soup or a filling stew, these Hungarian goulash recipes are sure to become new favorites.
