Hungarian Goulash with Nokedli (Dumplings)
Ingredients for Goulash:
– **Meat:** 1.5 pounds (700g) beef chuck, cut into chunks
– **Vegetables:**
– 2 onions, finely chopped
– 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, sliced
– 1 bell pepper, chopped
– 2-3 tomatoes, chopped
– 2 potatoes, cubed
– **Seasonings:**
– 2 tablespoons Hungarian paprika
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– **Liquids:**
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup water
#### Ingredients for Nokedli (Dumplings):
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup water (more if needed)
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Butter (for serving)
### Instructions:
#### For the Goulash:
1. **Sear the Meat:**
– Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef chunks and sear until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
2. **Cook the Vegetables:**
– In the same pot, add the chopped onions and cook until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. **Add Spices and Vegetables:**
– Stir in the paprika, caraway seeds, and tomato paste. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
– Add the carrots, bell pepper, tomatoes, and potatoes. Stir well to combine.
4. **Simmer:**
– Return the beef to the pot. Pour in the beef broth and water, adding the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer, covered, for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.
5. **Season:**
– Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
#### For the Nokedli (Dumplings):
1. **Prepare the Dough:**
– In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and crack the eggs into it. Add the water gradually while mixing, until you have a thick, sticky batter. You can add more water if needed to achieve the right consistency.
2. **Cook the Dumplings:**
– Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Using a spoon or a Nokedli maker (spaetzle maker), drop small portions of the batter into the boiling water.
– Cook the dumplings until they float to the surface, then let them cook for another 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to a serving dish.
3. **Butter:**
– Toss the cooked dumplings with a bit of butter to prevent sticking and add flavor.
### Serving:
– Serve the Goulash hot, garnished with a sprig of parsley and a slice of tomato if desired, alongside a generous portion of Nokedli.
Enjoy your traditional Hungarian meal!