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Pork Goulash with Paprika Sauce

Elina James
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Course Dinner
Servings 6 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • For the Goulash
  • 2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 large onions, thinly sliced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional but traditional)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
  • 2 cups chicken or beef broth
  • 1 red bell pepper, sliced
  • 1 green bell pepper, sliced
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons flour (optional, for thicker sauce)
  • For Finishing
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice or red wine vinegar (for acidity)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
  • Optional: 1/4 cup sour cream for a creamy finish

Instructions
 

  • Step 1: Prepare the Pork : Cut pork shoulder into even cubes. Pat dry with paper towels to help it brown properly.
  • Step 2: Sear the Pork : Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven. Add pork in batches, searing on all sides until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
  • Step 3: Cook the Onions : Add sliced onions to the pot. Cook for 7–10 minutes until soft, lightly caramelized, and fragrant.
  • Step 4: Add Aromatics and Spices : Stir in minced garlic, sweet paprika, smoked paprika, and caraway seeds. Cook for 1 minute to bloom the spices.
  • Step 5: Add Tomato Base : Stir in tomato paste and cook briefly to deepen the flavor. Add diced tomatoes and mix to combine.
  • Step 6: Add Broth and Meat : Return pork to the pot and pour in broth. Stir well. Bring to a gentle boil.
  • Step 7: Add Vegetables : Add sliced bell peppers. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Step 8: Simmer :Lower heat, cover, and simmer 60–75 minutes, stirring occasionally, until pork becomes fork-tender.
  • Step 9: Optional Thickening : If you prefer a thicker sauce, whisk 2 tablespoons flour with 3 tablespoons cold water and stir into the pot. Simmer 5 more minutes.
  • Step 10: Final Seasoning : Add lemon juice or vinegar for brightness. Adjust salt, pepper, and paprika if needed.
  • Step 11: Optional Creamy Finish : Stir in sour cream off-heat for a creamy, velvety version.