Goulash Soup

Goulash Soup

Goulash Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that originates from Hungary, where it is considered a national staple. Traditionally, goulash is a thick stew made with meat, vegetables, and a rich blend of spices, particularly paprika.

Goulash Soup takes this beloved dish and transforms it into a comforting, broth-based soup that retains all the delicious flavors of its thicker counterpart while providing a lighter alternative.

This soup is perfect for chilly days when you need something warm and filling. The combination of tender meat, colorful vegetables, and aromatic spices makes it not only satisfying but also visually appealing.

It’s a dish that can be easily adapted to include seasonal vegetables or whatever you have on hand. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal that will warm your soul.

Ingredients

To make a delicious Goulash Soup, gather the following ingredients:

For the Soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 pound beef stew meat (or pork, chicken, or a meat alternative), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, diced
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 6 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
• 3 tablespoons sweet paprika (preferably Hungarian)
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 bay leaf

For Garnish:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Sour cream (optional)
• Crusty bread or rolls (for serving)

How to Make Goulash Soup

Sear the Meat:

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and sear until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t overcrowd the pot; if necessary, work in batches. Once browned, transfer the meat to a plate and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables:

In the same pot, add the diced onion and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are soft and the onion is translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

Add the Spices:

Stir in the sweet paprika, caraway seeds (if using), and dried thyme. Cook for about 1-2 minutes until the spices are fragrant. This step is crucial as it enhances the flavors of the soup.

Combine Ingredients:

Return the seared meat to the pot, along with the sliced carrots, diced potatoes, and can of diced tomatoes (with juice). Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Add the Broth:

Pour in the beef broth and add the bay leaf. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.

Simmer the Soup:

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the meat is tender and the flavors meld together. Stir occasionally and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Taste and Adjust:

After simmering, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or paprika if desired. If the soup is too thick, you can add more broth or water to reach your preferred consistency.

Serve the Soup:

Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the Goulash Soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. For an extra touch, you can add a dollop of sour cream on top.

Enjoy:

Serve the soup hot with crusty bread or rolls on the side for a satisfying meal.

Chef’s Note

Goulash Soup is a versatile dish that can be customized in many ways. You can experiment with different types of meat, such as pork or chicken, and feel free to add any vegetables you enjoy, such as green beans, corn, or peas. For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and increase the variety of vegetables or add lentils or beans for protein.

The key to a delicious Goulash Soup is the quality of the paprika. Hungarian sweet paprika is the traditional choice and provides a rich flavor and beautiful color. If you like heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to give the soup a spicy kick.

Goulash Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well, so you can enjoy a comforting bowl whenever you need a quick meal. Just reheat on the stove and add a splash of broth if needed.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 25g
• Fat: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Cholesterol: 70mg

This Goulash Soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. The combination of vegetables provides essential vitamins and minerals, while the meat offers protein and iron. Be mindful of the sodium content, especially if using store-bought broth; opting for low-sodium versions can help manage your salt intake.

Conclusion

Goulash Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that showcases the rich flavors of traditional Hungarian cuisine. Its combination of tender meat, colorful vegetables, and aromatic spices makes it a perfect meal for any occasion.

Whether enjoyed as a warming soup on a cold day or a hearty dish to share with family and friends, Goulash Soup is sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling nourished.

So gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and enjoy the delightful flavors of this classic soup that is sure to become a family favorite!

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