Craving a hearty, flavorful meal that transports you to the charming streets of Budapest? Look no further than this authentic Hungarian Pork Goulash recipe! This classic dish is surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Get ready to savor rich, tender pork infused with smoky paprika and a medley of aromatic vegetables. This easy recipe offers a delicious escape, showcasing the best of homemade cooking and healthy meals. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp sweet Hungarian paprika
- 1 tsp hot Hungarian paprika (adjust to your spice preference)
- 1 tsp caraway seeds
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Dumplings (optional, recipe below)
Instructions:
Get started:
- Season the pork cubes generously with salt and pepper.
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the pork cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. This step is crucial for developing a rich flavor. Set the browned pork aside.
Building the flavor base:
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, sweet paprika, hot paprika, and caraway seeds. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. This step unlocks the incredible aroma of paprika.
Combining and simmering:
- Return the browned pork to the pot. Stir in the diced tomatoes (undrained), beef broth, and tomato paste. Add the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 1.5-2 hours, or until the pork is incredibly tender. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor becomes. Stir occasionally.
Finishing touches:
- Remove the bay leaf before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or dumplings (recipe below).
Easy Dumplings (optional):
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ cup milk
- 2 tbsp melted butter
Instructions:
- Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
- Add milk and melted butter, mixing until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Drop spoonfuls of the dough into the simmering goulash during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking. Cover and cook until the dumplings are cooked through and fluffy.
Tips for the Best Goulash:
- Use quality paprika: Hungarian paprika is key to this dish's authentic flavor. Look for smoked paprika for a deeper, smokier taste.
- Don't rush the simmering: Low and slow cooking is essential for tender pork and maximum flavor development.
- Adjust the spice level: Start with less hot paprika and add more to your taste.
- Make it ahead: This goulash tastes even better the next day! It's a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeknights or entertaining.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 400-500 (depending on serving size and additions)
- Protein: High
- Fat: Moderate
This Hungarian Pork Goulash is a delicious example of quick dinner ideas, perfect for busy weeknights. The recipe showcases the beauty of simple ingredients transformed into a truly remarkable dish. Enjoy this flavorful journey to the heart of Hungary!