Hungarian Beef Goulash with Paprika and Caraway

Name: Hungarian Beef Goulash with Paprika and Caraway
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 140 min
Total time: 160 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Hungarian
Ingredients: 500 g beef chuck, cut into 2 cm cubes; 2 whole medium onions, thinly sliced; 2 tbsp neutral oil; 2 tbsp sweet paprika; 1 tsp ground caraway; 2 whole red chili peppers, seeded and sliced, optional; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 whole bay leaf; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 3 whole medium potatoes, cubed; 1 tsp fine salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 750 ml water, plus as needed

Beef and potatoes braised with paprika, caraway, peppers and tomato.

By Savva LoginovUpdated October 2, 2026

Total 2 hr 40 minMakes 4 servings

Jump to Recipe

This Hungarian-style goulash slowly braises beef with onions, paprika, peppers and caraway until tender, then adds potatoes near the end. Bloom paprika briefly in the oil, keeping it from scorching, and simmer gently until the meat is soft. Heat oil in a heavy pot. Cook onions until golden. Add beef and brown on all sides. Remove pot from heat briefly. Stir in paprika and caraway, then add peppers, garlic, bay leaf and tomato paste. Add water to just cover meat. Bring to a simmer, cover and cook gently 90 to 120 minutes until beef is nearly tender; add water if needed. Stir in potatoes, salt and pepper. Simmer uncovered 20 to 25 minutes until potatoes are tender and meat is soft.

Hungarian Beef Goulash with Paprika and Caraway

How to tell when it is ready

Cook until tender and evenly heated as described.

Tips

Measure ingredients before beginning.
Use evenly sized pieces for consistent cooking.
Taste and adjust seasoning near the end.
Cool and store leftovers promptly.

Troubleshooting

If mixture is too wet, add binder gradually.
If browning too quickly, lower the heat.

Substitutions

Use a compatible neutral oil if needed.
Choose suitable alternatives for dietary needs.

Variations

Adjust herbs or spices to taste.
Add a suitable seasonal ingredient.

Serving suggestions

Serve with a fresh seasonal side.
Pair with bread, rice or another suitable accompaniment.
Offer a complementary sauce or topping.
Serve warm or chilled as directed.

Make ahead

Prepare components ahead and refrigerate perishable ingredients; finish shortly before serving.

Storage

Refrigerate leftovers promptly and use within 3 days.

Food safety

Keep raw beef separate from ready-to-eat foods; cook until tender and refrigerate leftovers promptly.

Frequently asked questions

Can I prepare this ahead?

Prepare components ahead and refrigerate promptly; finish close to serving.

How should I store hungarian beef goulash?

Refrigerate leftovers promptly and use within 3 days.

Serve promptly and refrigerate leftovers safely.

About the author

Savva Loginov

Savva Loginov writes about traditional Ukrainian cooking, including regional dishes, heritage baking and the customs behind familiar recipes. His English guides explain each dish’s context alongside clear, practical cooking instructions.

Hungarian Beef Goulash with Paprika and Caraway