Hungarian Beef Stew is a warm and comforting dish that brings the whole family together. With tender beef, rich flavors, and the perfect blend of spices, this stew warms you from the inside out. It's not just food; it's a hug in a bowl!
Why Make This Recipe
You should make this recipe because it's simple and satisfies everyone. With just a few ingredients, you can create a hearty meal that tastes like it has been cooking all day. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you want something filling and delicious. Plus, it’s great for meal prep, so you can enjoy leftovers too!
How to Make Hungarian Beef Stew
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons paprika (preferably Hungarian)
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Directions:
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the beef stew meat and brown it on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for 2-3 minutes until they're softened.
- Stir in the paprika and caraway seeds, making sure to coat the onions and garlic in the spices.
- Return the beef to the pot. Add the chopped bell pepper, diced tomatoes, beef broth, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it cook for 1.5 to 2 hours or until the beef is nice and tender.
- Once the beef is tender, stir in the sour cream and let it cook for another 5 minutes.
- Before serving, garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of color!
How to Serve Hungarian Beef Stew
Serve this delicious stew in big bowls with some crusty bread on the side. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or even some rice. Enjoy it hot, and watch everyone dig in!
How to Store Hungarian Beef Stew
You can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm it on the stove or in the microwave until it's hot. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Tips to Make Hungarian Beef Stew
- Use good quality beef for the best flavor and tenderness.
- Let it simmer longer for richer taste.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like carrots or potatoes for extra nutrition.
Variation
You can make this stew even heartier by adding root vegetables like carrots or potatoes. Some people like to add a splash of red wine for a deeper flavor. Feel free to mix it up!
FAQs
1. Can I use chicken instead of beef?
Yes, you can use chicken for a lighter version, but the cooking time may vary.
2. Is it necessary to use Hungarian paprika?
Using Hungarian paprika adds a unique flavor, but you can use regular paprika if that's what you have.
3. Can I make it in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just brown the beef first, then add everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Enjoy making this cozy Hungarian Beef Stew!