Classic Bohemian Beef Goulash with Bread Dumplings

Classic Bohemian Beef Goulash with Bread Dumplings

Classic DishGoulash

Prep: 30 min • Cook: 180 min. A hearty, slow-simmered beef goulash, rich with Hungarian paprika and onions, served traditionally with light, fluffy bread dumplings for soaking up the savory sauce. This classic dish is a cornerstone of Bohemian cuisine, perfect for warming up on a cold day.

Preparation time
30 min
Cooking time
3 hrs
Total time
3 hrs 30 min
Servings
7

Instructions

Make the Goulash

  1. 1In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, melt butter with oil over medium heat.
  2. 2Add chopped onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until deeply golden brown and caramelized, about 20-25 minutes.
  3. 3Remove pot from heat. Stir in paprika, caraway seeds, and marjoram. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant.
  4. 4Return pot to medium-high heat. Add beef cubes and brown on all sides. Stir in minced garlic and tomato paste, cook for another minute.
  5. 5Pour in beef broth, add bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then cover and reduce heat to low.
  6. 6Simmer gently for at least 3 hours, or until beef is fork-tender, stirring occasionally. Add more broth if needed.
  7. 7Remove bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Make the Bread Dumplings

  1. 1In a large bowl, combine cubed bread, parsley, and salt.
  2. 2Pour warmed milk over the bread and let it soak for 10 minutes.
  3. 3Stir in the beaten eggs and mix until well combined. Gradually add flour, mixing until a soft, slightly sticky dough forms.
  4. 4Lightly flour your hands and shape the dough into 6-8 dumplings.
  5. 5Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the dumplings.
  6. 6Reduce heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until dumplings are firm and cooked through.
  7. 7Remove dumplings with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.

Nutrition Information

Calories
750 kcal
Protein
45 g
Fat
35 g
Carbs
60 g
NutrientPer serving
Calories750 kcal
Protein45 g
Fat35 g
Carbs60 g

Tips

  • Low and slow is key for tender beef. Do not rush the simmering process; it allows flavors to meld beautifully.
  • Using day-old or slightly stale bread for the dumplings ensures they hold their shape and texture during cooking.
  • Serve goulash piping hot, spooned generously over sliced bread dumplings, preferably with a dollop of sour cream.

By Chef Michael Ilin