Authentic Hungarian Beef Goulash Recipe (Gulyás) cooked to perfection, served on a plate - Yumaroma Save Pin

Authentic Hungarian Beef Goulash Recipe (Gulyás)

Hearty authentic Hungarian beef goulash stew slow-simmered with sweet Hungarian paprika, tender beef chuck, onions, and potatoes.

Prep Time 20 min
Cook Time 1 hr 55 min
Servings 6
Difficulty Intermediate
Calories 420 kcal
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Every reliable kitchen repertoire needs a dependable crowd-pleaser like this Authentic Hungarian Beef Goulash Recipe (Gulyás). Built around beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes, yellow onions, finely and authentic sweet hungarian paprika, this dish comes together smoothly in 2 hr 15 min, delivering deep comfort, savory depth, and effortless weeknight satisfaction.

Ingredients

6 servings
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Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Caramelize Onions in Lard (15 Min)

Melt lard in Dutch oven; sauté finely chopped onions on low heat for 12 to 15 minutes until soft and golden.

2

Bloom Paprika & Sear Beef (10 Min)

Remove pot from heat! Stir in Hungarian paprika and crushed caraway seeds to bloom in warm fat (do not burn!). Add beef cubes, tomato, pepper, and garlic.

3

Slow Simmer Goulash (1 Hr 30 Min)

Add beef stock. Cover and **simmer on low** for 90 minutes until beef is fork tender. Add cubed potatoes and simmer 20 minutes until tender!

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Chef Amara’s Kitchen Secrets & Pro Tips

  • Off-Heat Paprika Blooming: Always remove pot from heat when adding sweet paprika to prevent bitter burning.
  • Use Genuine Hungarian Paprika: Genuine imported Hungarian Sweet Paprika (Édes Anna) gives true crimson color and flavor.

1. Let the Meat Rest Before Slicing: Transfer cooked meat to a cutting board for 5–10 minutes before carving. Resting allows tight muscle fibers to relax and redistribute savory juices evenly throughout the cut. 2. Season in Measured Layers: Introduce small pinches of salt at different cooking stages rather than dumping seasoning on at the end. This draws out moisture and seasons every ingredient to its core. 3. Chef's Kitchen Secret: Off-Heat Paprika Blooming: Always remove pot from heat when adding sweet paprika to prevent bitter burning.

Chef’s Cooking Guide & FAQs

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Troubleshooting & Quick Fixes

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  • What if My Authentic Hungarian Beef Goulash Recipe (Gulyás) Vegetables Turn Soggy Instead of Crisp?: Avoid crowding your skillet or roasting pan. Trapped steam makes veggies soggy. Spread them across the pan with space between pieces so moisture evaporates and edges caramelize.
  • How to Deepen Savoriness Without Heavy Salt?: Add a splash of tamari, nutritional yeast, roasted garlic, or smoked paprika. These natural umami boosters satisfy the palate while keeping sodium in check.
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Storage, Freezing & Reheating Guidelines

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Store leftovers in an airtight glass container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a preheated 350°F oven or covered skillet over medium-low heat until steaming hot throughout.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Q: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time? A: Yes, this dish can be assembled up to 24 hours in advance, kept covered in the refrigerator, and baked or cooked when ready to serve.

Q: Can I substitute common pantry ingredients? A: Yes, this recipe is forgiving. Check our substitution notes in the ingredient card for dairy-free, gluten-free, and vegan alternatives.

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Kitchen Notes & Discussion

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Step 1 of 3

Caramelize Onions in Lard (15 Min)

Melt lard in Dutch oven; sauté finely chopped onions on low heat for 12 to 15 minutes until soft and golden.

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