Traditional Hungarian Goulash (Gulyás)

Ingredients:

• 500 g (1 lb) beef (chuck or shank), cut into cubes
• 2 tbsp oil or lard
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp sweet Hungarian paprika
• 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tomato, chopped (or 2 tbsp tomato paste)
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 2–3 carrots, sliced
• 2–3 potatoes, cubed
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1–1.5 L (4–6 cups) water or beef broth

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a large pot and sauté onions until soft and lightly golden.
2. Remove from heat, stir in paprika and caraway seeds.
3. Add beef, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook for a few minutes.
4. Add tomato and bell pepper, then pour in water or broth to cover.
5. Simmer on low heat for about 1–1.5 hours until meat begins to soften.
6. Add carrots and potatoes, continue cooking until vegetables and meat are tender.
7. Adjust seasoning and serve hot as a soup.