Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport you straight to the rustic kitchens of Hungary with this extraordinary Honey Mushroom Gulyas! This isn't just another goulash recipe – it's a soul-warming, flavor-packed adventure that combines the earthy richness of wild honey mushrooms with tender beef in a deeply satisfying traditional Hungarian stew. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or an adventurous food lover looking to explore new taste horizons, this recipe promises to deliver a meal that's both comforting and extraordinarily delicious.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: Hungarian
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb honey mushrooms, cleaned
- 1 lb beef, cut into cubes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tbsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup sour cream (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by cleaning honey mushrooms thoroughly, cutting beef into uniform cubes, and finely chopping the onion and mincing garlic.
- Heat a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of oil and brown the beef cubes in batches, ensuring each piece develops a deep golden-brown crust. Remove browned meat and set aside.
- In the same pot, reduce heat to medium and sauté chopped onions until translucent and soft, approximately 5-6 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Sprinkle paprika over the onions and garlic, stirring quickly to prevent burning. This will release the paprika's rich flavor and create the characteristic deep red color of traditional Hungarian goulash.
- Return browned beef to the pot, add cleaned honey mushrooms, and pour in beef broth. Season with salt and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let cook slowly for approximately 1 hour, or until beef becomes tender and mushrooms are fully cooked.
- Stir occasionally and check liquid levels, adding more broth if needed to prevent sticking.
- Once meat is tender and sauce has thickened, taste and adjust seasoning as necessary.
- Serve hot in bowls, garnishing each portion with a generous dollop of sour cream. Traditionally accompanied by crusty bread or egg noodles.
Tips
- Mushroom Selection: Always clean honey mushrooms thoroughly and inspect for any signs of damage. Fresh, firm mushrooms are key to the dish's success.
- Meat Preparation: Cut beef into uniform cubes to ensure even cooking and tender results. Pat the meat dry before browning to achieve a perfect golden crust.
- Paprika Power: Use high-quality Hungarian paprika for authentic flavor. Add it after sautéing onions to prevent burning and maximize its rich, deep taste.
- Slow Cooking is Essential: Keep the heat low and cook slowly to allow the meat to become tender and flavors to meld beautifully.
- Liquid Management: Check the pot periodically and add more broth if needed to prevent sticking and maintain the right sauce consistency.
- Serving Suggestion: The dollop of sour cream isn't just a garnish – it adds a creamy tanginess that perfectly complements the rich, savory stew.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 35g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 100mg
