Pörkölt is a classic Hungarian stew, rich in paprika flavor, slow-cooked until tender. It’s similar to goulash but typically thicker, with a deep, hearty taste. You can make it with beef, pork, lamb, or chicken.
📝 Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900 g) beef stew meat (or pork/lamb), cut into cubes
- 2 tbsp oil or lard
- 2 large onions, finely chopped
- 2–3 tbsp sweet Hungarian paprika
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bell peppers, chopped (optional)
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped (or 1 cup canned)
- 1 cup (240 ml) water or beef broth
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional)
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ Sauté Onions
Heat oil or lard in a large pot.
Cook onions over medium heat until golden.
2️⃣ Add Paprika & Meat
Remove pot from heat briefly.
Stir in paprika and garlic, then add meat.
Brown the meat lightly.
3️⃣ Add Vegetables & Liquid
Add bell peppers, tomatoes, water or broth, and caraway seeds if using.
Stir to combine.
4️⃣ Simmer
Cover and simmer over low heat 1.5–2 hours, until meat is tender.
Stir occasionally; add a bit more water if needed.
5️⃣ Season
Add salt and pepper to taste.
Serve hot.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Traditionally served with nokedli (Hungarian dumplings) or boiled potatoes
- Pair with crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce
Hearty, flavorful, and unmistakably Hungarian — perfect for cozy dinners 🇭🇺
