Traditional Hungarian Goulash

This delicious Hungarian goulash is a comforting and hearty dish that's perfect for cold evenings. It combines tender pieces of pork with sauerkraut, seasoned with cumin and paprika, creating a savory and slightly tangy flavor. The dish is slow-cooked, allowing the flavors to meld together perfectly. Sweet paprika and a touch of tomato paste add depth and a rich red color, while onion and garlic provide a savory base. The meal is traditionally served with boiled potatoes, making it a complete and satisfying dish. Goulash is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, thanks to the inclusion of lean pork and various vegetables. Its origins can be traced back to Hungary, where it's enjoyed as a staple meal. With minimal ingredients and simple preparation steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks. Follow these detailed instructions to recreate this classic dish in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 600 g lean pork (from the neck, boneless)
• 500 g sauerkraut
• 300 g onions
• 1 clove garlic
• 1 red bell pepper

Spices and Sauces

• 2 tbsp melted butter
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tbsp sweet paprika powder
• 2 tsp tomato paste
• 1/4 liter meat broth
• Salt, to taste
• Pepper, to taste
• Sugar, a pinch

Preparation Time

110 minutes (including prep and cooking)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Pork: Cut the pork into bite-sized pieces, ensuring they are of uniform size for even cooking.
2. Chop the Vegetables: Peel and finely chop the onions and garlic. Clean and dice the red bell pepper.
3. Sauerkraut Prep: Using two forks, fluff and separate the sauerkraut strands to ensure even mixing later.
4. Heat Butter: In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat until it sizzles.
5. Brown the Pork: Add the pork to the pot, searing it until it’s browned on all sides. Remove the pork and set it aside.
6. Cook Onions and Garlic: In the remaining oil, sauté the onions and garlic until they become translucent, releasing their aroma.
7. Add Sauerkraut and Spices: Add the fluffed sauerkraut to the pot. Season with cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar for balance.
8. Combine with Pork: Return the browned pork to the pot. Mix in the tomato paste, ensuring everything is well combined.
9. Pour in Broth: Carefully add the meat broth. Stir gently to blend the ingredients well.
10. Simmer the Goulash: Place the lid on the pot, reduce heat, and let it simmer gently for 1.5 hours or until the meat is tender.
11. Add Bell Pepper: After the meat has cooked, add the diced bell pepper to the pot, mixing it in.
12. Final Simmer: Let the entire mixture simmer for an additional 5 minutes to cook the bell peppers but retain their color and crunch.
13. Taste Testing: Adjust seasoning if necessary by tasting the goulash. Ensure it's spicy enough for your liking.
14. Serve Immediately: Best served hot alongside boiled potatoes for a complete meal.
15. Garnish Options: Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color.

Tips

• Substitutions: Use chicken broth instead of meat broth for a lighter flavor.
• Spice Variation: Adjust the paprika quantity for a spicier dish.
• Tenderizing Tip: Marinate the pork in a bit of vinegar beforehand for an extra tender texture.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 400 per serving
• Protein: 30g
• Fats: 20g
• Carbs: 25g

Variations

• Vegetarian Version: Substitute pork with hearty mushrooms or tofu for a vegan-friendly dish.
• Lighter Version: Use chicken or turkey for a lighter protein option.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with boiled potatoes or crusty bread to soak up the savory sauce.
• Consider serving with a side of fresh green salad to balance the meal.

Best Places

• Gundel Restaurant - A historic fine dining establishment known for its traditional Hungarian dishes. Location: Gundel Karoly utca 4, Budapest, Hungary.
• Rosenstein Restaurant - Offers a homely atmosphere with authentic dishes. Location: Mosonyi utca 3, Budapest, Hungary.
• Kárpátia Restaurant - A classic venue with stunning interiors featuring traditional Hungarian specialties. Location: Ferenciek tere 7-8, Budapest, Hungary.
• Borkonyha Winekitchen - Combines Hungarian tradition with modern cuisine, especially noteworthy for its wine pairings. Location: Sas utca 3, Budapest, Hungary.
• Spinoza Café - Known for its unique fusion of Hungarian and Jewish gastronomy. Location: Dob utca 15, Budapest, Hungary.
• Mazeltov - Blends urban vibes with Hungarian-Israeli dishes. Location: Akácfa utca 47, Budapest, Hungary.
• Onyx - Award-winning restaurant emphasizing refined Hungarian gourmet dishes. Location: Vörösmarty tér 7-8, Budapest, Hungary.
• Vörös Postakocsi Restaurant - Known for its nostalgic ambiance and hearty traditional meals. Location: Ráday utca 15, Budapest, Hungary.
• Kéhli Vendéglő - Offers a cozy setting and a diverse selection of Hungarian classics. Location: Mókus utca 22, Budapest, Hungary.
• Costes Downtown - Michelin-starred restaurant known for its modern takes on Hungarian cuisine. Location: Vigadó tér 2, Budapest, Hungary.