Smoked Paprika Goulash Recipe: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Comfort Dish
Looking for a cozy, comforting meal packed with smoky flavor and hearty ingredients? This Smoked Paprika Goulash recipe is your perfect answer. Rooted in Hungarian tradition but enhanced with a modern twist, this goulash uses smoked paprika to elevate the depth of flavor and deliver a truly unforgettable dish.
Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal-prepping for the week, this rich and aromatic dish is easy to prepare and sure to satisfy.
📝 What Is Goulash?
Goulash is a traditional Hungarian stew made with meat, vegetables, and plenty of paprika. It’s often slow-cooked to tender perfection, allowing the spices and ingredients to meld together for a warm, savory experience. Goulash is commonly served with egg noodles, potatoes, rice, or rustic bread.
In this version, we’re giving it a smoky edge using smoked paprika, which adds a rich, woodsy flavor that deepens the entire dish.
🧄 Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 large onion, chopped
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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1.5 lbs (700g) beef chuck, cubed (or use pork for variation)
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2 tablespoons smoked paprika
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1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional but authentic)
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2 tablespoons tomato paste
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1 red bell pepper, chopped
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1 green bell pepper, chopped
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1 large tomato, chopped (or 1/2 cup canned tomatoes)
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3 cups beef broth
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Salt and pepper to taste
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Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Add-ins:
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1 cup chopped carrots or potatoes
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1/2 cup sour cream for topping
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Egg noodles, rice, or crusty bread for serving
🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Sear the Meat
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
In the same pot, add chopped onions and sauté until soft. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add Spices and Tomato Paste
Stir in the smoked paprika, caraway seeds, and tomato paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes to bring out the full flavor of the spices.
Step 4: Combine and Simmer
Return the beef to the pot. Add chopped peppers, tomatoes, and broth. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and the sauce has thickened.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley and a dollop of sour cream. Serve hot over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or rice.
🍽️ Tips for the Best Smoked Paprika Goulash
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Use high-quality smoked paprika for maximum flavor—Spanish pimentón is a great option.
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For a vegetarian version, substitute meat with mushrooms, lentils, or jackfruit.
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Make it ahead: Goulash tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld.
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Add a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar for added depth.
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🧠 Final Thoughts
This Smoked Paprika Goulash brings all the warmth and tradition of classic Hungarian cooking, with the added depth of smoky flavor. Simple to make, deeply satisfying, and endlessly adaptable, it’s the ultimate comfort food for any season.
Try it tonight and see why this smoked paprika twist will become your new go-to stew!