Discover how to make Perkelt, a traditional Hungarian stew similar to goulash, packed with tender meat and rich paprika flavor. This easy-to-follow recipe guides you through creating a savory, comforting dish perfect for family dinners. Explore the blend of spices and cooking techniques that make Perkelt a standout meal in Hungarian cuisine.

Ingredients:

- 2 lbs (900g) beef stew meat (cut into chunks)

- 2 large onions (finely chopped)

- 4 cloves garlic (minced)

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

- 2 tablespoons Hungarian paprika

- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)

- 1 bell pepper (diced)

- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes

- 2 cups beef broth

- 2 tablespoons tomato paste

- 1 teaspoon salt

- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)

- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish)

Instructions:

Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.

Brown the Meat: Add the beef chunks and cook until browned on all sides. Remove the meat and set aside.

Cook Onions and Garlic: In the same pot, add the chopped onions and cook until they become translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.

Add Paprika and Spices: Stir in the Hungarian paprika and caraway seeds, cooking for 1 minute to release the flavors.

Combine Ingredients: Return the browned beef to the pot. Add the diced bell pepper, canned tomatoes, beef broth, tomato paste, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.

Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally.

Thicken Sauce (Optional): If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of flour with a small amount of water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the pot and cook for an additional 10 minutes.

Garnish and Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your Perkelt with crusty bread or over a bed of rice or noodles.

Nutritional values

Beef Stew Meat (2 lbs or 900g, cut into chunks):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100 grams):

   - Calories: 250

   - Protein: 26g

   - Carbohydrates: 0g

   - Fat: 17g

Benefits: High in protein and essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Supports muscle growth and overall health.

Onions (2 large, finely chopped):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100 grams):

   - Calories: 40

   - Protein: 1g

   - Carbohydrates: 9g

   - Fat: 0.1g

Benefits: Adds flavor and nutrients such as vitamin C and antioxidants. May support heart health and have anti-inflammatory properties.

Garlic (4 cloves, minced):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100 grams):

   - Calories: 149

   - Protein: 6g

   - Carbohydrates: 33g

   - Fat: 0.5g

Benefits: Known for its medicinal properties, garlic can help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels and boost the immune system.

Vegetable Oil (2 tablespoons):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100 grams):

   - Calories: 884

   - Protein: 0g

   - Carbohydrates: 0g

   - Fat: 100g

Benefits: Adds flavor and aids in cooking. High in calories and fat, so use in moderation or opt for healthier oils like olive oil.

Hungarian Paprika (2 tablespoons):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100 grams):

   - Calories: 282

   - Protein: 14g

   - Carbohydrates: 54g

   - Fat: 12g

Benefits: Adds rich color and flavor. Contains antioxidants like capsaicin, which may have anti-inflammatory and metabolic benefits.

Caraway Seeds (1 teaspoon, optional):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100 grams):

   - Calories: 333

   - Protein: 17g

   - Carbohydrates: 50g

   - Fat: 15g

Benefits: Adds a distinctive flavor and aids digestion. Contains antioxidants and may have antimicrobial properties.

Bell Pepper (1, diced):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100 grams):

   - Calories: 20

   - Protein: 1g

   - Carbohydrates: 5g

   - Fat: 0.2g

Benefits: Rich in vitamins A and C, and antioxidants. Supports immune function and overall health.

Diced Tomatoes (1 can or 14 oz):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100 grams):

   - Calories: 18

   - Protein: 1g

   - Carbohydrates: 4g

   - Fat: 0.2g

Benefits: Provides vitamins C and K and antioxidants like lycopene. Supports heart health and may reduce cancer risk.

Beef Broth (2 cups):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per cup, 240 ml):

   - Calories: 30

   - Protein: 4g

   - Carbohydrates: 1g

   - Fat: 1g

Benefits:Adds flavor and some nutrients. Typically low in calories but can vary depending on preparation.

Tomato Paste (2 tablespoons):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100 grams):

   - Calories: 82

   - Protein: 4g

   - Carbohydrates: 19g

   - Fat: 0.5g

Benefits: Adds concentrated tomato flavor and nutrients. Rich in lycopene, an antioxidant.

Salt (1 teaspoon):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100 grams):

   - Calories: 0

   - Protein: 0g

   - Carbohydrates: 0g

   - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Enhances flavor but should be used in moderation to avoid excessive sodium intake.

Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon):

   - Calories: 251

   - Protein: 10g

   - Carbohydrates: 64g

   - Fat: 3g

Benefits: Adds flavor and contains antioxidants. May aid digestion and have anti-inflammatory properties.

All-Purpose Flour (1 tablespoon, optional, for thickening):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100 grams):

   - Calories: 364

   - Protein: 10g

   - Carbohydrates: 76g

   - Fat: 1g

Benefits: Used to thicken the stew. Adds calories and carbohydrates.

Fresh Parsley (chopped, for garnish):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100 grams):

   - Calories: 36

   - Protein: 3g

   - Carbohydrates: 6g

   - Fat: 0.8g

Benefits: Adds fresh flavor and is rich in vitamins A, C, and K. Contains antioxidants and may aid digestion.

This beef stew combines hearty protein with a rich array of vegetables and spices, providing a well-balanced and flavorful meal.