Vegan Goulash: A Hungarian Classic Reimagined

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 bell peppers, diced
  • 2 medium potatoes, diced
  • 2 cups chopped tomatoes (fresh or canned)
  • 1 cup vegan red wine
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup TVP (Textured Vegetable Protein) or vegan beef chunks
  • 2 tablespoons flour (optional, for thickening)
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Steps and instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the onion and garlic, sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
  3. Add the carrots, bell peppers, and potatoes to the pot and continue to sauté for another 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, red wine, vegetable broth, paprika, caraway seeds, soy sauce, black pepper, and salt. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.
  6. Add the TVP or vegan beef chunks to the pot and stir well. Cover the pot again and continue to simmer for another 15 minutes.
  7. If you prefer a thicker goulash, mix the flour with a little water to make a paste, then stir it into the goulash. Let it cook for another 5-10 minutes to thicken.
  8. Once the goulash is cooked to your liking, remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use different vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or butternut squash.
  • Replace the TVP or vegan beef chunks with tempeh, seitan, or tofu.
  • Add extra spices like smoked paprika, cumin, or chili powder for additional flavor.
  • For a gluten-free option, substitute the flour with a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening.
  • Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or oregano to enhance the aroma.
  • Add a tablespoon of tomato paste for a richer and more concentrated tomato flavor.
  • Include a dollop of vegan sour cream or yogurt on top before serving for added creaminess.
  • For a spicier version, add chopped jalapenos or red pepper flakes.
  • Serve the goulash over cooked pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.

Recipe overview

This hearty Vegan Goulash recipe is a perfect option for those comfort food cravings. Originating from Hungarian cuisine, goulash traditionally is a meat and vegetable stew seasoned with paprika. Our vegan version retains the rich and smoky flavor of the classic dish but substitutes meat with Textured Vegetable Protein (TVP) or vegan beef chunks. Loaded with vegetables like onions, carrots, bell peppers, and potatoes, this goulash offers a wholesome meal that's both filling and nutritious. The addition of red wine deepens the flavor profile, although you can forgo it if you prefer. Expect to spend some time sautéing vegetables and simmering the stew to let the flavors meld together. The end result is a warming, hearty stew with a robust flavor that's perfect for a cozy evening at home. For a thicker goulash, there's an optional step to incorporate flour, but it's up to your preference. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness right before serving. Enjoy!

Common questions

  1. Can I use a different type of oil instead of olive oil? Yes, you can use any other cooking oil of your choice as a substitute for olive oil.
  2. What can I use instead of TVP or vegan beef chunks? You can use cooked lentils, mushrooms, or tempeh as a substitute for TVP or vegan beef chunks.
  3. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of chopped tomatoes? Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Simply dice them and add them to the recipe.
  4. Can I omit the red wine? Yes, you can omit the red wine if you prefer. You can replace it with additional vegetable broth or water.
  5. Is there a gluten-free option for thickening the goulash? Yes, you can use a gluten-free flour or a thickening agent like cornstarch as a substitute for the flour.
  6. Can I add other vegetables to the goulash? Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as zucchini, squash, or green beans to customize the recipe to your preference.
  7. How long does the goulash need to simmer? The goulash should simmer for a total of about 30 minutes after adding the TVP or vegan beef chunks, but you can adjust the cooking time to achieve your desired consistency.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

Born in the pastoral hinterlands of Hungary, goulash is as hearty as it is historic. Traditionally a meat-heavy dish favored by Magyar shepherds, it was simmered in a bogrács, a type of metal pot hung above an open fire. The dish's name, gulyás, means 'herdsman' in Hungarian. Over the centuries, goulash evolved from a humble shepherd's stew to a national symbol, particularly during the 19th-century period of Hungarian national awakening. Today, our vegan version of this historic dish offers a contemporary twist, staying true to the comforting, flavorful essence of its roots, while catering to modern dietary preferences. It's a culinary journey into the heart of Hungary, right from your kitchen.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.