Introduction
Discover the hearty and rich flavors of traditional Beef Gulasch. This classic Hungarian stew is a comforting dish that brings warmth to your table, offering an excellent blend of tender beef and aromatic spices.
Tips for this recipe
- For the best results, use high-quality ingredients like Hungarian paprika to enhance authentic flavor profiles.
- Preparing the beef shanks beforehand can significantly reduce cooking time and ensure tender meat. If using short ribs instead, adjust the simmering duration accordingly.
- Marinating or resting your meat after cutting but prior to adding it to the pot helps in developing deep flavors.
Why you will love this recipe
Beef Gulasch is not only a dish that celebrates traditional culinary practices, but its rich and deeply satisfying taste makes it perfect for cozy family meals or gatherings. Its ability to bring people together around the table makes it an enduring favorite across generations.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup canola oil
- 1 1/2 pounds white onions, halved through core, thinly sliced crosswise (about 8 cups)
- 2 garlic cloves, sliced
- 1 tablespoon dried marjoram
- 1 1/2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 3 tablespoons Hungarian sweet paprika
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Hungarian hot paprika
- 1 cup white wine vinegar
- 6 cups low-salt chicken broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 teaspoons finely grated lemon peel
- 3 1/2 pounds beef shank meat (from about 4 1/2 pounds beef shanks) or boneless beef short ribs, cut into 3/4-inch cubes
Adviced equipments
- Electric Knife Set – For efficiently cutting vegetables and meat into even pieces.
- High-Sided Saucepan with Lid – Essential for simmering goulash to develop flavors without spilling.
- Heavy-Duty Dutch Oven – Ideal for slow cooking goulash on the stovetop or in an oven.
- Stainless Steel Chef’s Knife – A versatile tool needed for chopping vegetables and herbs.
- Cutting Board – To keep your prep area clean while preparing ingredients.
- Meat Tenderizer (optional) – Useful if you want to tenderize the beef before cooking.
- Mixing Bowls (2-3 sizes) – For marinating and mixing all the goulash ingredients together.
- Wooden Spoons or Spatulas – Versatile for stirring and ensuring even cooking without scratching non-stick surfaces.
- Measuring Cups & Spoons – Accurate measurement of spices, liquids, etc., to perfect your goulash recipe.
- Slow Cooker – A convenient alternative for cooking goulash over several hours with minimal supervision.
History of the recipe
Gulasch, often spelled “goulash” in English, is a Hungarian stew with origins dating back to the Middle Ages. Initially used by nomadic shepherds for their mobile kitchens, it has evolved into an iconic symbol of Hungarian culinary heritage. Its popularity expanded through Austro-Hungarian influence and globalization.
fun facts about this recipe
The name ‘Gulasch’ likely comes from the word ‘guláš,’ which is related to goulash. While traditionally a soup, over time it has been adapted into a stew that often includes meat and vegetables cooked in a thick sauce made with paprika. The use of Hungarian spices such as marjoram, sweet, and hot paprika contribute significantly to its unique flavor profile.
