Serves 6-8 people | Prepared in 2.5-3 hours | Difficulty: Moderate
Immerse yourself in the rich, hearty flavors of traditional Hungarian Goulash Soup (Gulyás Leves). This soul-warming soup is a delightful medley of tender beef, perfectly cooked vegetables, and aromatic spices, all simmered to perfection in a savory broth.
Each spoonful offers a burst of comforting goodness, making it the ultimate comfort food that transports you straight to the heart of Hungary. Serve it with a slice of fresh bread to soak up the flavorful broth and enjoy a meal that’s both satisfying and nourishing.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons lard or vegetable oil
- 2 medium onions, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 900 g (2 lbs) beef chuck, cut into bite-size pieces
- 2 tablespoons sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 parsnips, sliced
- 1 small celery root, diced (optional)
- 1.5 l (6 cups) beef broth or water
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon marjoram (optional)
- 30 g (1/4 cup) chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
1. Cook the Onions and Garlic
In a large pot, heat the lard or vegetable oil over medium heat.
Add the chopped onions and cook until they are soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Brown the beef
Add the beef cubes to the pot and cook until they are browned on all sides.
3. Season
Stir in the paprika and caraway seeds, making sure the beef is well-coated with the spices.
4. Add vegetables
Add the bell pepper, tomatoes, potatoes, carrots, parsnips, and celery root to the pot. Stir well to combine.
5. Add liquid
Pour in the beef broth or water. Add salt, pepper, bay leaf, and marjoram (if using).
6. Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef and vegetables are tender.
7. Final seasoning
Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary. Remove the bay leaf.
8. Serve
Stir in the chopped parsley before serving. Serve hot, preferably with some fresh bread on the side.
Enjoy your Hungarian Gulyás Leves!
