Hungarian Goulash Recipe

Hungarian Goulash, also known as "gulyás" in Hungarian, is a traditional dish that originates from Hungary. It is a hearty and flavorful stew made with tender chunks of beef, vegetables, and a rich tomato-based sauce. This dish has a long history and is considered one of Hungary's national dishes. Now, let's dive into the recipe and make your taste buds dance with the flavors of Hungarian Goulash!

Fun Fact: The word "gulyás" actually means "herdsman" in Hungarian, and the dish itself has its roots in the herding traditions of the country. Originally prepared and consumed by Hungarian shepherds, gulyás was an ideal dish for their long days tending to their herds.

Ingredients:
- 2 pounds (approx. 900 grams) beef, cut into 1-inch squares
- Flour, for dredging
- 1 tablespoon of salt
- 1/8 teaspoon of pepper
- 1 cup of tomatoes, diced
- 1 stalk of celery, cut into small pieces
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 whole cloves
- 4 tablespoons of flour
- 2 tablespoons of water
- Potatoes, diced
- Carrots, diced
- Green and red peppers, cut into strips

Instructions:

1. Start by preparing the beef. Cut it into one-inch squares and dredge the pieces in flour. This coating will help to seal in the flavors and keep the beef tender during cooking.

2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat some oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. This will help to enhance the flavor and create a rich base for the goulash.

3. Once the beef is nicely browned, add enough water to cover the beef completely. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about two hours. This slow cooking method will create tender and flavorful beef.

4. After two hours of simmering, it's time to add seasoning. Stir in one tablespoon of salt and one-eighth of a teaspoon of pepper. These simple seasonings will enhance the taste of the goulash.

5. While the beef continues to simmer, let's prepare the sauce. In a separate saucepan, combine one cup of diced tomatoes, the celery pieces, a bay leaf, and two whole cloves. Cook this mixture over medium heat for about 25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

6. Once the sauce has cooked, remove the bay leaf and cloves. Transfer the sauce to a sieve and rub it through to eliminate any lumps or solids, creating a smooth sauce.

7. Next, add the sauce to the pot with the beef, combining it with the stock in which the meat was cooked. This will infuse the goulash with a rich tomato flavor.

8. In a small bowl, combine four tablespoons of flour with two tablespoons of water, creating a thickening agent. Mix well to remove any lumps.

9. Stir the flour mixture into the goulash pot, slowly adding it while stirring continuously. This will help to thicken the sauce and give the goulash a velvety texture.

10. Allow the goulash to simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.

11. While the goulash is simmering, prepare the diced potatoes, carrots, and green and red peppers. These vegetables will add color, texture, and additional flavor to the dish.

12. In a separate pan, sauté the diced potatoes, carrots, and pepper strips until they are cooked. You can season them with a pinch of salt and pepper, or even add some Hungarian paprika for an extra kick of flavor.

13. Once the vegetables are cooked, serve the goulash hot, topped with the cooked diced potatoes, carrots, and pepper strips. The combination of textures and flavors will make each bite a delightful experience.

Hungarian Goulash is traditionally served as a main course, often accompanied by a side of pickles and fresh bread. It is a dish that warms the soul and brings people together to enjoy the comforting flavors of Hungary.

Similar Recipes:

1. Beef Stroganoff: This Russian dish also features tender beef cooked in a rich sauce. However, it incorporates sour cream, onions, and mushrooms, giving it a distinct flavor profile.

2. Boeuf Bourguignon: This classic French dish is another hearty beef stew that utilizes red wine and aromatic herbs, such as thyme and bay leaf, to create a complex and delicious flavor.

3. Irish Beef Stew: This stew incorporates beef, potatoes, carrots, and onions, simmered in a savory broth. It is often seasoned with herbs like rosemary and thyme, providing a warm and comforting taste.

Whether you choose to enjoy Hungarian Goulash or explore other similar recipes, these dishes celebrate the comfort and satisfaction that comes from a hearty stew filled with tender meat and flavorful vegetables. So, grab a bowl and savor the deliciousness of these amazing dishes!

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