Day: January 19, 2025

# Simple Slow Cooker Recipe for Authentic Hungarian Goulash

Hungarian goulash is a robust and tasty dish that has become popular worldwide due to its rich flavors and comforting nature. Traditionally prepared with beef, vegetables, and a mix of spices, goulash is an ideal meal for chilly days or whenever you desire something warm and gratifying. Thanks to the ease of a slow cooker, you can indulge in this timeless dish with very little effort. This article will walk you through a straightforward slow cooker recipe for authentic Hungarian goulash, making it easy for you to relish this delightful meal in just a few uncomplicated steps.

## What is Hungarian Goulash?

Hungarian goulash, referred to as “gulyás,” is a stew that traces its roots back to Hungary and is frequently linked with the nation’s culinary traditions. The dish usually includes tender chunks of beef, onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, and an array of spices like paprika, which is the key ingredient. The inclusion of paprika imparts goulash its unique taste and bright color. Although there are many adaptations of goulash, the traditional recipe focuses on straightforwardness and the incorporation of fresh, high-quality ingredients.

## Ingredients

For this straightforward slow cooker Hungarian goulash, you will require the following ingredients:

– **2 pounds beef chuck roast**, chopped into 1-inch pieces
– **2 tablespoons vegetable oil**
– **2 large onions**, diced
– **3 cloves garlic**, minced
– **2 bell peppers** (one red and one green), diced
– **2 medium carrots**, sliced
– **2 medium potatoes**, cubed
– **1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes**, with juices
– **2 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika**
– **1 teaspoon caraway seeds** (optional)
– **1 teaspoon dried oregano**
– **4 cups beef broth**
– **Salt and pepper**, to taste
– **Fresh parsley**, chopped (for garnish)

## Instructions

### Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. **Heat the Oil**: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, pour in the vegetable oil. When hot, add the beef cubes in batches to prevent overcrowding.

2. **Brown the Beef**: Sear the beef on all sides until browned, taking about 5-7 minutes. This step enhances the goulash’s flavor profile.

3. **Transfer to Slow Cooker**: Once browned, move the beef to the slow cooker.

### Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. **Sauté Onions and Garlic**: In the same skillet, toss in the diced onions and sauté until they are translucent, around 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it is fragrant.

2. **Add to Slow Cooker**: Transfer the sautéed onions and garlic to the slow cooker containing the beef.

### Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. **Add Remaining Ingredients**: Into the slow cooker, mix in the diced bell peppers, sliced carrots, cubed potatoes, diced tomatoes (with juices), sweet paprika, caraway seeds (if using), oregano, and beef broth.

2. **Season**: Season with salt and pepper according to taste. Stir all the ingredients together to combine.

### Step 4: Slow Cook

1. **Set the Slow Cooker**: Cover the slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The extended cooking time helps the flavors meld beautifully and allows the beef to become tender.

### Step 5: Serve

1. **Check for Doneness**: When the cooking period is finished, ensure that the beef is tender and the vegetables are fully cooked.

2. **Garnish and Enjoy**: Serve the goulash hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. It pairs excellently with crusty bread or egg noodles.

## Tips for the Best Goulash

– **Quality Ingredients**: Choose high-quality beef and fresh vegetables for the best taste.
– **Paprika**: Authentic flavor relies on Hungarian sweet paprika. Avoid using smoked paprika, as it changes the traditional flavor.
– **Adjusting Thickness**: If a thicker goulash is preferred, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water and stir it into the goulash during the final 30 minutes of cooking.
– **Make Ahead**: Goulash often tastes even better the following day, making it an excellent make-ahead option. Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for as long as 3 months.

## Conclusion

This simple slow cooker recipe for authentic Hungarian goulash is ideal for hectic weeknights or cozy weekends. With minimal preparation and the wonders of slow cooking, you can craft a delicious and comforting meal that brings the tastes of Hungary right to your kitchen. Enjoy the comfort and heartiness of this classic dish, and remember to share it with family and friends!