One of the most well-known and beloved dishes of Hungarian cuisine is goulash soup. This delicious, hearty dish has become popular not only in Hungary, but also in other parts of the world. Goulash soup is not only a Hungarian dish, but also a Hungarian tradition that connects the past with the present and brings back countless memories for all those who love traditional Hungarian flavors.
The origin of goulash soup
The history of goulash soup dates back to the 9th century, deeply rooted in Hungarian pastoral culture, when Hungarian cattle herders, or goulash, cooked their food under the open sky. The word “goulash” originally referred to the shepherds who herded cattle and prepared a simple but nutritious meal for themselves during their long journeys. The first goulash soups consisted mainly of meat, onions and fat, which were cooked in a cauldron in the steppe conditions. Paprika, which gives goulash soup its characteristic flavor today, only became widespread in the 18th century. Over time, goulash soup has become one of the most iconic dishes of Hungarian cuisine, enriched with many regional variations and methods of preparation.
The basis of the goulash soup was beef, which the goulash people prepared while grazing. In addition to the meat, they used fresh vegetables that they gathered from nature. The cooking technique for goulash is simple, as the meat and vegetables were cooked together in a large pot, so the flavors were perfectly intertwined.
How is classic goulash soup made?
The basis of goulash soup was beef - pork - lamb (later poultry was also used in the house). In addition to the meat, fresh vegetables and spices were used. The cooking technique of goulash is simple, as the meat and vegetables were cooked together in a cauldron or pot.
The main ingredients of traditional goulash soup are:
- Beef / pork / lamb / poultry, which are made from parts of freshly slaughtered animals.
- Vegetables: Potatoes, carrots, celery tomatoes and peppers add richness and spice to the soup.
- Water: Required for the stock.
Goulash soup served in pot( in bread bowl: +950 HUF)
Special and interesting information about goulash:
Regional goulash soup variations:
Goulash is prepared in many variations in different regions of Hungary. For example, Szeged goulash is richer and more goulash-like, while Hortobágy goulash has many more vegetables and is cooked in many other regional preparation and flavor combinations.
Hungarian national dish:
Goulash is not only a delicious dish, but also one of the most important symbols of Hungarian national identity. From a simple dish of steppe shepherds, it has become an iconic dish of Hungarian cuisine, expressing national unity and pride. The history of goulash is closely intertwined with Hungarian history, from the wandering shepherds to the national awakening of the 19th century, when food became one of the most important expressions of national consciousness. Using traditional Hungarian cuisine ingredients such as meat, onions and peppers, goulash soup is the embodiment of Hungarian spirituality and hospitality, and is one of the best-known and most beloved symbols of Hungarian culture around the world.
It was also the favorite soup of Prince Saint Imre, the son of the first Hungarian king, Saint Stephen, which further enhances its national status.
Goulash is a true international celebrity:
Goulash is not only a popular dish in our country, but it also boasts a serious fan base internationally. This iconic dish of Hungarian gastronomy is known and recognized in many parts of the world. The dish, which is widely known as “goulash”, although it may differ from the original Hungarian version in some places, still enhances the reputation of Hungarian cuisine. The presence of goulash on international menus, at various gastronomic festivals, and in foreign cookbooks clearly proves that this dish is one of the most important gastronomic ambassadors of Hungarian culture. Goulash soup is thus not only a nutritious dish, but also a cultural experience that connects Hungarian traditions with international flavors. The popularity of goulash soup has grown worldwide in recent decades, and in addition to Hungarian restaurants, young chefs are creating creative variations that inspire international cuisine.
Goulash soup is one of the most characteristic symbols of Hungarian cuisine, not only a delicious dish, but also a part of culture, history and traditions. Whether it is the highlight of family gatherings or the favorite dish of friends, cooked on a kitchen stove or in a cauldron over a fire outdoors, goulash soup always has the ability to bring a smile to people's faces.
