Oh my gosh, let me tell you about this Hungarian keto goulash! It’s one of those dishes that just wraps you up in a warm blanket of flavor. Seriously, it’s hearty, comforting, and packed with rich spices that make every bite a delight. The tender beef just melts in your mouth, and the aroma that fills your kitchen while it’s simmering? Wow! It’s like a hug for your senses.
This dish is perfect for anyone following a keto diet since it’s low in carbs but high in flavor and satisfaction. Trust me, it’s not just for the keto folks—everyone at your table will be asking for seconds! I have fond memories of making this goulash during family gatherings. It brings everyone together, and there’s just something about sharing a steaming bowl of goulash that makes the moment feel extra special. So, let’s dive into this recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your home, just like it is in mine!
Ingredients for Hungarian Keto Goulash
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp paprika (make sure to use sweet Hungarian paprika for the best flavor!)
- 1 tsp caraway seeds (these add such a unique depth)
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (any color will do, but I love the sweetness of a red one)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz, don’t drain, we want that juice!)
- 4 cups beef broth (homemade or low-sodium for a healthier option)
- Salt and pepper to taste (always taste as you go!)
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for that perfect sauté)
How to Prepare Hungarian Keto Goulash
Now, let’s get cooking! This part is where the magic happens, and I promise it’s easier than you might think. Just follow these steps, and you’ll have a bubbling pot of goulash that’ll make your kitchen smell incredible!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Heat the olive oil: Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it nice and hot, so it sizzles when you add the onions. This usually takes about a minute or two.
- Sauté the onions and garlic: Toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 5 minutes, or until they’re soft and translucent. You’ll love the aroma wafting through the air—it’s the foundation of your goulash!
- Brown the beef: Now, add the 2 lbs of beef chuck cubes to the pot. Make sure to brown them on all sides—this should take about 8 to 10 minutes. Don’t rush this step! Browning the beef adds so much flavor to your goulash.
- Add the spices: Once the beef is browned, stir in the 2 tablespoons of paprika and 1 teaspoon of caraway seeds. Cook for another minute to let those spices bloom and fill your kitchen with their fragrance. It’s a game-changer!
- Mix in the vegetables: Next, add the chopped bell pepper and can of diced tomatoes (juice included!). Stir everything together and let it cook for another 2 minutes. This is where the goulash starts to really come together!
- Pour in the beef broth: Now, it’s time to pour in 4 cups of beef broth. Give it a good stir, and bring everything to a boil. You’ll see those bubbles popping up, and it’s going to look so inviting!
- Simmer to perfection: Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours. This is the magic time where the beef becomes tender and all those flavors meld together beautifully. Just be sure to check on it occasionally and give it a stir!
- Season and serve: Before serving, taste your goulash and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Serve it hot, and if you want to take it up a notch, add a dollop of sour cream on top. Trust me, you’ll want to savor every spoonful!
And there you have it! Your very own Hungarian keto goulash, simmered to perfection. It’s a cozy dish that’s sure to warm your heart and fill your belly!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- It’s a hearty, comforting dish that warms you from the inside out—perfect for chilly evenings!
- Rich, flavorful spices that make every bite a celebration of Hungarian cuisine.
- Quick to prepare with straightforward steps, so you can get dinner on the table without stress.
- Low in carbs, making it ideal for anyone following a keto diet without sacrificing taste.
- Delicious leftovers! It tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
- Customizable—you can easily adjust the spices and veggies to suit your taste preferences.
- Perfect for family gatherings or meal prepping; it feeds a crowd and satisfies everyone.
Tips for Success
Alright, let me share some of my favorite tips to make sure your Hungarian keto goulash turns out absolutely perfect every time! These little secrets will help you elevate your dish and make it even more enjoyable.
- Adjust the spices: Don’t be afraid to play around with the spices! If you love a bit more heat, throw in a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes. Taste as you go and find that perfect balance that suits your palate.
- Use a slow cooker: If you want to make things easier, this recipe adapts beautifully to a slow cooker! Just follow the same steps for browning the beef and sautéing the veggies, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours for tender, flavorful goulash with minimal effort!
- Don’t rush the browning: Seriously, take your time browning the beef. It might feel like an extra step, but that caramelization adds depth and richness to the goulash that you just can’t skip!
- Use good quality beef broth: The broth you choose can make a big difference in flavor. If you can, use homemade broth or a high-quality store-bought one. It’ll enhance the overall taste of your dish.
- Let it simmer: Patience is key! Allowing the goulash to simmer for that hour and a half lets all those wonderful flavors mingle and develop. It’s worth the wait, I promise!
- Garnish wisely: When serving, don’t forget that dollop of sour cream! It adds a creamy richness that complements the spices beautifully. You can also sprinkle some fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to whip up a goulash that’ll impress everyone at your table! Enjoy every moment of cooking and savoring this delightful dish!
Variations of Hungarian Keto Goulash
One of the best things about Hungarian keto goulash is how versatile it is! You can easily switch things up based on what you have on hand or what you’re in the mood for. Here are some of my favorite variations to inspire your creativity in the kitchen!
- Add more veggies: Feel free to toss in other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or even carrots. Just chop them up and throw them in with the bell pepper for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition!
- Spice it up: If you enjoy a little kick, try adding a teaspoon of chili powder or some diced jalapeños. It’ll give your goulash a nice heat that’s oh-so-satisfying!
- Herb it up: Fresh herbs like thyme or bay leaves can elevate the dish to the next level. Just toss in a couple of sprigs while it simmers and remove them before serving. The aroma is heavenly!
- Switch the meat: While beef is traditional, feel free to experiment with other meats like pork or chicken. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly since different meats may require less or more simmering time.
- Try different broths: Instead of beef broth, give chicken or vegetable broth a go for a lighter flavor profile. It can change the whole vibe of your goulash!
- Make it creamy: For a richer goulash, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a bit of cream cheese at the end of cooking. It adds a lovely creaminess that pairs beautifully with the spices.
- Experiment with paprika: While sweet Hungarian paprika is a must, you could also add a bit of smoked paprika for a deeper, smokier flavor. It’s a game-changer!
With these variations, you can make this goulash your own and keep things exciting in the kitchen. So don’t hesitate to get a little adventurous—your taste buds will thank you!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now, let’s talk about how to keep that delicious Hungarian keto goulash for later! You know, the best part about this dish is that it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. Here’s how to store and reheat it so you can enjoy it all over again!
Storing Leftovers
- Cool it down: First, let your goulash cool to room temperature before transferring it to storage containers. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess.
- Use airtight containers: Store the goulash in airtight containers to keep it fresh. You can portion it out into individual servings if you prefer, making it super convenient for quick meals!
- Refrigerate: Your goulash will stay good in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. Just make sure to label your containers with the date so you know when it was made!
- Freezing for later: If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the goulash! Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers or bags. It’ll last for about 2 to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating Tips
When it’s time to dig back into that goulash, here’s how to reheat it:
- Stovetop method: This is my favorite way! Just place the goulash in a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally and let it warm through. You might want to add a splash of beef broth or water if it seems a bit thick.
- Microwave method: If you’re in a hurry, you can microwave it! Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a lid or a paper towel, and heat it in 1-minute intervals until it’s hot, stirring in between.
- Slow cooker method: For a hands-off approach, you can reheat it in a slow cooker on low for a couple of hours. Just make sure to stir it occasionally so it heats evenly!
And there you go! With these storage and reheating tips, you’ll have that soul-warming goulash ready whenever the craving strikes. Enjoy every tasty bite!
Nutritional Information
Alright, let’s talk about the nutritional goodness of this Hungarian keto goulash! It’s always nice to know what’s in the delicious dish you’re enjoying, right? Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving (about 1 cup) so you can keep track while savoring this hearty meal:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fiber: 2g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keep in mind, these numbers are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. But with all that protein and healthy fats, this goulash is a fantastic choice for your keto lifestyle, giving you energy and satisfaction without the carb overload. Enjoy every spoonful knowing you’re indulging in something both delicious and nutritious!
FAQ About Hungarian Keto Goulash
Let’s tackle some of the most common questions I get about this delicious Hungarian keto goulash! I want to make sure you have all the info you need to whip up this dish with confidence. Here we go!
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Absolutely! While I love using beef chuck for its tenderness and flavor, you can also try brisket or even stew meat. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary a bit depending on the cut you choose.
Is there a way to make it spicier?
For sure! If you’re a fan of heat, you can add some cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes when you add the paprika. Just start with a little and taste as you go—you can always add more!
What if I can’t find caraway seeds?
No problem! If caraway seeds are hard to find, you can either skip them or substitute with a bit of fennel seeds for a similar flavor. It won’t be exactly the same, but it’ll still be tasty!
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
You bet! Just brown the beef and sauté the veggies first, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, and you’ll have a deliciously tender goulash waiting for you!
How do I adjust this recipe for a smaller portion?
Easy peasy! Just halve the ingredients, and you’ll be good to go. Keep an eye on the cooking time, though—it might be a bit shorter since there’ll be less in the pot.
Can I freeze the goulash?
Yes! This goulash freezes beautifully. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It’ll stay good for about 2-3 months, and you can reheat it right from frozen or let it thaw overnight in the fridge.
What can I serve with Hungarian keto goulash?
While it’s delicious on its own, you can serve it with a side of steamed veggies or a simple salad for a complete meal. If you’re not strictly keto, a slice of crusty low-carb bread for dipping is also amazing!
Hopefully, these FAQs help answer some of your burning questions! I want you to feel empowered and excited to make this scrumptious goulash. Happy cooking!
Print
Hungarian Keto Goulash: 7 Reasons You’ll Crave It Daily
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Hungarian
- Diet: Keto
Description
A hearty and flavorful Hungarian dish made with tender beef and rich spices, perfect for a keto diet.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp caraway seeds
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
- 4 cups beef broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onions and garlic, sauté until soft.
- Add beef cubes, brown on all sides.
- Stir in paprika and caraway seeds.
- Add bell pepper and diced tomatoes.
- Pour in beef broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until beef is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Notes
- Serve with a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
- This dish can be made in a slow cooker for convenience.
- Adjust spices according to your taste preference.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Hungarian keto goulash, low carb goulash, beef stew, keto recipes