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Hungarian-Style Beef and Potato Stew (Rakott Krumpli with Goulash Twist)

A hearty fusion of Hungarian rakott krumpli and goulash, this dish features tender beef stewed in a rich paprika tomato sauce, layered with golden baked potatoes. Comforting and full of deep Eastern European flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1.5 lbs (700g) beef stew meat, cut into chunks
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, sliced
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 1/2 cups beef broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
  • 45 medium potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons butter, melted
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a heavy skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  3. Add beef chunks and brown on all sides, about 6–8 minutes. Remove and set aside.
  4. In the same pan, sauté sliced onions until soft, about 4–5 minutes.
  5. Add minced garlic, paprika, tomato paste, salt, pepper, and caraway seeds. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring to combine.
  6. Return beef to the pan and pour in beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
  7. Cover and cook on low heat for 45 minutes, or until the beef is tender.
  8. Arrange the sliced potatoes in a circular pattern over the stew, overlapping slightly.
  9. Brush the potatoes with melted butter and lightly season with salt.
  10. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake uncovered for 35–40 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden and cooked through.
  11. Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.
  12. Serve warm, optionally with a dollop of sour cream.

Notes

  • Caraway seeds add authentic Hungarian flavor, but can be omitted if preferred.
  • Use a mandoline for evenly sliced potatoes for best texture and presentation.
  • Leftovers reheat well and taste even better the next day.

Nutrition

Keywords: Hungarian beef stew, rakott krumpli, goulash with potatoes, paprika stew, Eastern European comfort food