Absolutely, Ashley! Here’s a long-form, hearty article-style recipe for the traditional Pörkölt — a classic Hungarian beef and onion stew that’s beloved for its deep flavor and comforting richness. This dish is a warm hug from the heart of Hungary, and once you make it, you’ll understand why it’s a staple in so many Hungarian homes. 🇭🇺🍲❤️
🇭🇺 Pörkölt: Traditional Hungarian Beef and Onion Stew
Deep, Savory, and Slow-Cooked to Perfection
When it comes to comfort food that speaks straight to the soul, few dishes compare to a rich and flavorful bowl of Pörkölt. While often confused with goulash, pörkölt is its own unique dish — less brothy, more sauce-like, and deeply spiced with Hungarian paprika. Served with nokedli (spaetzle), pasta, or even potatoes, it’s the kind of meal that fills the house with an aroma that brings everyone to the table with happy hearts.
🧡 What Makes Pörkölt So Special?
- 🌶️ Authentic paprika-based flavor
- 🧅 Tons of caramelized onions for sweetness and depth
- 🥩 Tender beef simmered until melt-in-your-mouth soft
- 🍷 A slow cook that brings it all together into a velvety, rich stew
- 💯 Comfort food with heritage
📝 Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons lard or vegetable oil
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1.5 lbs (700g) beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons Hungarian sweet paprika (quality matters!)
- 1/2 teaspoon hot paprika or chili flakes (optional for heat)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground caraway seeds
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped (optional, traditional touch)
- 1 tomato, chopped or 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1–1.5 cups beef broth or water, as needed
👩🍳 Instructions
🔸 Step 1: Sauté the Onions
Heat the lard or oil in a large heavy pot or Dutch oven.
Add the chopped onions and cook slowly over medium-low heat, stirring often, until golden and caramelized – this can take 15–20 minutes. Don’t rush; the onions are the flavor base.
🔸 Step 2: Add the Paprika and Garlic
Remove the pot from the heat briefly to avoid burning the paprika.
Stir in the garlic, sweet paprika, hot paprika (if using), and caraway.
Return to heat, add the chopped bell pepper and tomato. Sauté for a few minutes.
🔸 Step 3: Add the Beef
Add the beef cubes and stir well to coat in the paprika mixture. Cook for about 5–7 minutes until browned on the outside.
Season with salt and pepper.