As the temperatures drop and the days grow shorter, our cravings for hearty, comforting meals only intensify. And what better way to warm up than with a rich, flavorful pot of Hungarian goulash? This beloved dish has been a staple of Eastern European cuisine for centuries, and its popularity endures to this day. Whether you’re looking for a classic beef goulash or something more adventurous – like a spicy lamb variation or a vegetarian option featuring mushrooms – there’s a recipe on this list that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.
In the following pages, we’ll explore 20 different takes on Hungarian goulash, each one showcasing the versatility and depth of flavor that makes this dish so beloved. From slow-cooked stews to quick and easy weeknight meals, these recipes are sure to become new favorites in your household.
Classic Beef Hungarian Goulash with Paprika
This hearty beef stew, flavored with paprika, is a staple of Hungarian cuisine. A comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck or brisket, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– 1/2 cup tomato paste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup beef broth
– 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 beef in batches, then remove from pot.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in paprika, caraway seeds, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, and broth.
5. Return browned beef to pot; season with salt and pepper.
6. Simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until beef is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Slow-Cooked Hungarian Pork Goulash
This hearty goulash recipe is a classic representation of traditional Hungarian cuisine. Tender pork, rich beef broth, and a blend of aromatic spices create a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a cold winter’s day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) beef broth
– 1 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a slow cooker. Add onion and cook until softened.
2. Add pork, garlic, paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
3. Add beef broth, red wine (if using), and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
4. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Hungarian Goulash Soup with Root Vegetables
This traditional Hungarian soup is a comforting blend of tender vegetables and flavorful beef broth, perfect for a cold winter’s day. Rich and savory, it’s sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef bones (short ribs or shank)
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 large celery stalk, chopped
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons paprika
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, brown the beef bones over medium-high heat, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, carrots, parsnips, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Add beef broth, paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until the soup is rich and flavorful.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Vegetarian Hungarian Goulash with Mushrooms
Savor the rich flavors of this hearty vegetarian goulash, packed with tender mushrooms and a blend of aromatic spices. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or as a satisfying main course.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 2 tablespoons sour cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms, garlic, paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5-7 minutes or until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown.
3. Stir in broth, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let goulash cook, covered, for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together and sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, topped with a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Hungarian Chicken Goulash with Herbs
This traditional Hungarian recipe combines tender chicken, rich beef broth, and aromatic herbs to create a satisfying and comforting meal. Perfect for a cozy evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in paprika, caraway seeds, beef broth, wine (if using), thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
4. Return chicken to pot and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Hungarian Lamb Goulash
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the rich flavors of lamb with a kick of spice, this Spicy Hungarian Lamb Goulash is perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder or neck, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the lamb, then remove from pot.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened. Add caraway seeds, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook 1 minute.
3. Add broth, wine (if using), tomato paste, browned lamb, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2 hours or until the meat is tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Hungarian Goulash with Dumplings
Savor the rich flavors of Hungary with this classic goulash recipe, accompanied by tender and fluffy dumplings. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening or as a satisfying meal any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup paprika-spiced tomato puree
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8 oz all-purpose flour
– 2 eggs
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, brown the beef in a little oil over medium heat. Remove from pot and set aside.
2. Add onions and garlic; cook until softened. Add paprika-spiced tomato puree, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Gradually add flour, mixing to avoid lumps. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add water, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Meanwhile, mix flour, eggs, and water to form dumpling mixture. Drop by spoonfuls into the goulash pot.
6. Simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes or until dumplings are cooked through.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Authentic Hungarian Goulash with Caraway Seeds
Authentic Hungarian Goulash with Caraway Seeds: A hearty and flavorful stew that’s a staple of Hungarian cuisine, perfect for a cold winter’s day.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tablespoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the onions and garlic; cook until the onions are translucent.
4. Stir in the caraway seeds, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the diced tomatoes and beef broth; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the meat is tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Hungarian Venison Goulash with Red Wine
This classic Hungarian dish is a staple of winter comfort food, and when made with tender venison, it’s a truly satisfying meal. This recipe combines rich red wine, flavorful spices, and tender game meat for a hearty, warming goulash.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb venison stew meat
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add venison and cook until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add red wine, beef broth, paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 2 hours or until meat is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Hungarian Goulash Stew with Potatoes
This traditional Hungarian stew is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening. With tender chunks of beef, potatoes, and vegetables, it’s a one-pot wonder that’s easy to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef chuck or shank, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 4 cups beef broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the potatoes, paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1 hour or until the potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Hungarian Sausage Goulash with Sauerkraut
This hearty goulash is a staple of Hungarian cuisine, combining the rich flavors of sausage and sauerkraut with tender vegetables. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Hungarian sausage (such as kolbász or székelygulyás), sliced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onions, garlic, carrots, and potatoes. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in sauerkraut, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and let goulash cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Hungarian Goulash with Sweet Peppers
This hearty Hungarian dish combines tender beef, flavorful vegetables, and a rich paprika-based broth, making it a perfect comfort food for any occasion. With the added sweetness of bell peppers, this goulash is a delightful twist on the classic recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add bell peppers, paprika, caraway seeds, and diced tomatoes. Cook for 5 minutes.
4. Pour in beef broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 1/2 hours or until the meat is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 1/2 hours
Hungarian Goulash with Sour Cream Topping
This classic Hungarian recipe is a staple of the country’s cuisine, made with tender beef, vegetables, and a rich paprika-based broth. The addition of sour cream adds a creamy and tangy twist to this comforting dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large bell pepper, chopped
– 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 cup beef broth
– Sour cream for serving (about 8 ounces)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, bell pepper, and paprika to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the caraway seeds, salt, and black pepper. Add the beef broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
5. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream on top.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Hungarian Goulash with Egg Noodles
This classic Hungarian recipe combines tender beef, rich vegetables, and a rich broth with egg noodles for a comforting meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium bell peppers, chopped
– 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 ounces egg noodles
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions, garlic, bell peppers, and tomatoes. Cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper.
4. Add diced tomatoes and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
5. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions. Serve with goulash.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Hungarian Turkey Goulash with Barley
Hungarian Turkey Goulash with Barley Recipe
Savor the rich flavors of Hungary with this hearty turkey goulash recipe, served with a nutritious and wholesome serving of barley. This traditional dish is perfect for a cold winter’s day.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound ground turkey
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, bell peppers)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup cooked barley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
- Add ground turkey; cook, breaking with spoon, until no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
- Add mixed vegetables, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and cooked barley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
- Garnish with parsley if desired. Serve hot over mashed potatoes, egg noodles, or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Hungarian Goulash with Red Cabbage
Experience the rich flavors of Hungary with this comforting goulash recipe, elevated by the sweet and tangy addition of red cabbage. This classic dish is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 head of red cabbage, shredded
– 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 pot over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the beef, then set aside.
3. Add onions, garlic, and carrot; cook until tender (5 minutes).
4. Add red cabbage and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Stir in paprika, diced tomatoes, and beef broth.
6. Return the browned beef to the pot and season with salt and pepper.
7. Simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Hungarian Goulash with Fresh Parsley
This classic Hungarian dish is a staple of comfort food, perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion. With the addition of fresh parsley, this goulash recipe takes on a bright and refreshing flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef cubes (such as chuck or round)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 tsp caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onions and garlic; cook until the onions are translucent.
3. Add the beef cubes; cook until browned on all sides.
4. Add the diced tomatoes, beef broth, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 1/2 hours or until the meat is tender.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Hungarian Wild Boar Goulash
This hearty and flavorful dish is a staple of Hungarian cuisine, perfect for a cold winter’s night. Savor the rich flavors of wild boar, vegetables, and spices in this comforting goulash.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound wild boar stew meat
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 stalks celery, chopped
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup red wine
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Add wild boar, beef broth, red wine, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour or until meat is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Hungarian Goulash with Roasted Garlic
This classic Hungarian dish gets a flavorful boost from the addition of roasted garlic, adding depth and richness to this comforting stew. Perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef or veal, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced (plus 4-5 heads of roasted garlic, see note)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Wrap garlic cloves in foil and roast for 30-40 minutes, or until soft.
2. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add beef, paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until browned, about 10 minutes.
4. Add broth, water, potatoes, and roasted garlic. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until meat is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes.
Hungarian Goulash with Homemade Spaetzle
This classic Hungarian dish combines rich beef broth, tender chunks of beef, and a satisfying side of homemade spaetzle noodles. A comforting meal perfect for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
For the goulash:
– 1 lb beef chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the spaetzle:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup warm water
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, brown the beef over medium-high heat. Remove from pot.
2. Add onions and garlic; cook until softened. Add paprika and cook for 1 minute.
3. Add broth, wine, and browned beef. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 1 hour or until tender.
4. For spaetzle: In a bowl, whisk together flour, egg, and water. Mix until smooth.
5. Cook spaetzle in boiling salted water for 2-3 minutes or until floats. Remove with slotted spoon.
6. Serve goulash over spaetzle.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including spaetzle preparation)
Summary
Get ready to warm up with these 20 hearty Hungarian goulash recipes that are authentic and packed with flavor! From classic beef and pork options to vegetarian and spicy variations, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to make delicious soups, stews, and dishes featuring paprika, caraway seeds, dumplings, sauerkraut, and more. Whether you’re a Hungarian food enthusiast or just looking for new recipe inspiration, this collection has got you covered.
