Irresistible Hearty Hungarian Pork Sauerkraut Goulash Recipe

There’s a certain kind of magic that happens in the kitchen when the aroma of simmering goulash fills the air. This Hearty Hungarian Pork and Sauerkraut Goulash is one of those dishes that wraps you up in a warm, cozy hug. I remember the first time I tasted it—sitting around a rustic wooden table at my friend’s family gathering, adorned with laughter, good music, and enough food to feed a small army. The rich, tangy flavors of the goulash danced through the room, enticing everyone to hurry to the table.

This dish isn’t just about nourishment; it’s a story, a connection to the past, a way to gather loved ones around the table. With hearty pork and the delightful zest of sauerkraut, it perfectly showcases the comfort of Eastern European cuisine. Whether it’s a chilly autumn evening or a bustling weeknight, this goulash is the ultimate crowd-pleaser that will make your heart sing.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Weeknight Dinner: One pot, minimal fuss, and maximum flavor.
• Budget-Friendly: Simple, affordable ingredients that won’t break the bank.
• Comforting Flavors: A perfect balance of savory, tangy, and just the right amount of spice.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Makes great leftovers and freezes beautifully.
• Customizable: Add your twist with spices, herbs, or different proteins!

Ingredients

Let’s gather our ingredients! Think about the beautiful blend of flavors that this Hearty Hungarian Pork and Sauerkraut Goulash brings to your kitchen as you collect each item. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes (look for marbled meat for extra flavor)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped (the soul of any great dish)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic adds more punch than powdered)
• 1 tablespoon sweet paprika (not spicy; Hungarian paprika is best for authenticity)
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (adds a unique, aromatic touch)
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• 1 cup chicken or beef broth (homemade if you have it!)
• 1 pound sauerkraut, drained and rinsed (this is where the tanginess comes from)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, adds a pop of color and freshness)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s dive into the kitchen and bring this Hearty Hungarian Pork and Sauerkraut Goulash to life! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be amazed at the results.

1. Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. You want it hot but not smoking.
2. Sear the Pork: Season your pork cubes with salt and pepper. Sear them in batches to keep the pan nice and hot, about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove them from the pot and set aside temporarily. (This step helps build that rich flavor base.)
3. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook for about 5-7 minutes until softened and golden. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute until fragrant. Your kitchen will smell heavenly right about now!
4. Add the Spices: Toss in the sweet paprika and caraway seeds, stirring constantly for about 30 seconds. This will bloom the spices and amp up their flavor.
5. Combine Ingredients: Return the seared pork to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes and broth, stirring everything together.
6. Stir in the Sauerkraut: Fold in the sauerkraut gently. Don’t rush this step; let it mingle with the other ingredients and release its tangy goodness! Taste and add more salt and pepper if needed.
7. Simmer Away: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer it simmers, the better it gets—so don’t rush this part! (You can also throw it in a slow cooker if you prefer!)
8. Final Flourish: Once the pork is fork-tender and the flavors have melded beautifully, taste again for seasoning. Sprinkle with fresh parsley right before serving.

Pro Tips & Variations

Now that you’re a pro at making this Hearty Hungarian Pork and Sauerkraut Goulash, let’s explore some fun twists to make it your own!

• Different Proteins: Feel free to swap the pork for beef or chicken, just adjust the cooking time slightly based on what you choose.
• Spice it Up: If you like a kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped hot paprika.
• Herbs Galore: Fresh dill or thyme can add a lovely herbaceous note to your goulash. Experiment and see what you love!
• Vegetarian Option: Use jackfruit or mushrooms as a substitute for the meat, and add more veggies like carrots and potatoes for hearty goodness.

Serving Suggestions

When it’s time to serve this Hearty Hungarian Pork and Sauerkraut Goulash, think cozy and inviting! I love to scoop it into deep bowls, letting the steam rise and the aroma fill the air. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for mopping up every last bit of sauce—think sourdough or a hearty rye. A side salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a nice contrast to the richness of the goulash. And of course, don’t forget a cold pint of lager or a bold red wine to wash it down perfectly.

Even better, this goulash is just as delightful the next day for lunch. Imagine warming it up at your office or home and having your co-workers or family members asking, “What is that heavenly smell?” Trust me, it’s a conversation starter!

Storage Tips

Got leftovers? Lucky you! Here’s how to store your creation without losing any of that delicious flavor:

• Refrigerating: Allow the goulash to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Portion out your goulash in freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving a little space for expansion. It can freeze for up to 3 months. Just label with the date so you know what’s what when you dig through your freezer.
• Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then gently reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through. Add a splash of broth if it’s a bit too thick after chilling. The flavors will be even better the next day!

FAQs

Can I use sauerkraut from a jar instead of canned?

Absolutely! Jarred sauerkraut is just fine. Just remember to rinse and drain it first to avoid too much saltiness. Fresh sauerkraut is awesome if you can find it, though—they often have great crunch and flavor!

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you love a spicy kick, consider adding some chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the pot while it simmers. You could also opt for a spicier paprika to amp things up!

Is there a substitute for pork shoulder?

Yes! You can use pork loin, which is leaner, or beef chuck if you’re in the mood for a beefy take. Just keep in mind that cooking times might vary slightly depending on the protein you choose.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Definitely! Sear the pork and sauté the aromatics as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for about 3-4 hours until everything is tender and melded.

What about a vegetarian version?

Great question! You can replace the pork with mushrooms or jackfruit and add extra veggies like potatoes, carrots, or even lentils to give it texture and heartiness. Just remember to adjust the seasoning!

Conclusion

And there you have it, my friend—your very own pot of Hearty Hungarian Pork and Sauerkraut Goulash, ready to warm your heart and feed your soul! I would love to hear how yours turns out or if you’ve added your special twist. So grab a spoon, call some friends over, and enjoy the special moments created around your dinner table. Happy cooking!

Irresistible Hearty Hungarian Pork Sauerkraut Goulash Recipe

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• Author: antaki
• Total Time: 135 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

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Description

Savor this hearty Hungarian pork goulash with sauerkraut delivering rich flavors in every bite A musttry dish for goulash lovers 150 chars

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

2 pounds of pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes

1 tablespoon of olive oil

1 large onion, chopped

4 cloves of garlic, minced

1 tablespoon of sweet paprika

1 teaspoon of caraway seeds

1 can (14 ounces) of diced tomatoes, undrained

1 cup of chicken or beef broth

1 pound of sauerkraut, drained and rinsed

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

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Instructions

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.

Season the pork cubes with salt and pepper. Sear them in batches for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the pot and set aside.

In the same pot, cook the chopped onion for about 5-7 minutes until softened and golden. Then add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.

Add the sweet paprika and caraway seeds, stirring for about 30 seconds.

Return the seared pork to the pot and add the diced tomatoes and broth, stirring to combine.

Gently fold in the sauerkraut and let it mingle with the other ingredients.

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Taste for seasoning and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

Hearty Hungarian Pork and Sauerkraut Goulash is a comforting dish that blends savory pork with tangy sauerkraut, perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 120 minutes
• Category: Dinner
• Cuisine: Hungarian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6 servings
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 4 grams
• Fat: 15 grams
• Carbohydrates: 30 grams
• Fiber: 5 grams
• Protein: 25 grams

Keywords: Hungarian Goulash, Pork Goulash, Sauerkraut Goulash, Comfort Food, Easy Dinner