Dive into the rich, savory world of Hungarian cuisine with this mouthwatering Pork Goulash recipe that promises to warm your heart and soul! Imagine tender chunks of pork shoulder simmered to perfection in a fragrant blend of spices, tomatoes, and hearty vegetables. This traditional dish is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that brings family and friends together around the table. Ready to impress your loved ones with a dish that’s as comforting as it is delicious? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs 40 mins
Cuisine: Hungarian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder, cubed
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups pork broth
- 3 medium potatoes, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Cube the pork shoulder into bite-sized pieces, chop the onion, mince the garlic, dice the potatoes, and slice the carrots. This will ensure a smooth cooking process.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the cubed pork shoulder. Sear the pork on all sides until it is browned, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds depth of flavor to the goulash.
- After the pork is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside on a plate. In the same pot, add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent and slightly golden.
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. The garlic should be fragrant but not browned.
- Stir in the paprika, making sure to coat the onions and garlic evenly. Cook for about 1 minute to release the flavors of the paprika.
- Return the browned pork shoulder to the pot. Add the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices) and the pork broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking will tenderize the pork and meld the flavors.
- After 1 hour, add the diced potatoes and sliced carrots to the pot. Stir to combine, then cover and continue to simmer for an additional 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the pork is fork-tender.
- Once the goulash is finished cooking, taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.
- Serve the Hungarian Pork Goulash hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or over egg noodles.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To make the cooking process smoother, prepare all your ingredients ahead of time. Chop, cube, and slice everything before you start cooking to keep the rhythm going.
- Sear for Flavor: Don’t skip the step of searing the pork shoulder! Browning the meat adds a depth of flavor that is essential for a rich goulash.
- Quality Paprika: Use high-quality Hungarian paprika for an authentic taste. The flavor of the paprika is crucial, so choose sweet or smoked varieties based on your preference.
- Low and Slow: Allow the goulash to simmer gently. The longer cooking time helps tenderize the pork and meld the flavors beautifully, so patience is key!
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your goulash before serving and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. You can also add a pinch of cayenne for a bit of heat if desired.
- Perfect Pairings: Serve your goulash with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce or over egg noodles for a hearty meal that will leave everyone satisfied.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 110mg
