Description
This Slow Cooker Hungarian Goulash is a hearty and comforting stew packed with tender beef, vibrant paprika, and a medley of vegetables. Cooked low and slow to develop rich flavors, this traditional dish is perfect for a satisfying family meal any day of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Seasonings
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
Vegetables
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cups potatoes, diced
- 1 cup carrots, sliced
Liquids
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Brown the beef chuck pieces in batches until nicely seared on all sides, then transfer them to the slow cooker to lock in flavor.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: In the same skillet, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they soften and become translucent, releasing their aroma.
- Add Spices: Stir in paprika and caraway seeds into the skillet with the sautéed onion and garlic, allowing the spices to bloom, then add this mixture to the slow cooker.
- Add Vegetables and Liquids: Add chopped bell pepper, beef broth, diced tomatoes, diced potatoes, and sliced carrots to the slow cooker, distributing everything evenly around the browned beef.
- Season: Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste, ensuring balanced flavors prior to cooking.
- Slow Cook: Cover the slow cooker and cook on low heat for 8 hours or on high heat for 4 hours until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
- Serve: Once cooked, serve the goulash hot, ideally with crusty bread or over egg noodles for a complete comforting meal.
Notes
- Browning the beef adds depth of flavor and locks in juices, so don’t skip this step.
- You can adjust the amount of paprika based on your spice preference.
- Use beef chuck for the best tender and flavorful results after slow cooking.
- Adding potatoes and carrots creates a hearty, all-in-one meal.
- If you prefer a thicker stew, you can remove the lid near the end of cooking to let some liquid evaporate.
