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Traditional Bab Gulyas – Hearty Hungarian Bean and Pork Stew

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Traditional Bab Gulyas – Hearty Hungarian Bean and Pork Stew

Traditional Bab Gulyas – Hearty Hungarian Bean and Pork Stew

Experience the authentic flavors of Bab Gulyas, a rich and satisfying Hungarian stew made with tender pork, smoky smoked meats, beans, and vibrant vegetables. This recipe was perfected under the watchful eye of family, ensuring a flawless, deeply flavorful dish ideal for comforting meals and gatherings.

🕒 Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus overnight soaking)

🍳 Cook Time: 2 hours
🍽️ Servings: 6-8

Ingredients

  • 700 g dried beans (soaked overnight in warm water)
  • 500 g pork leg, cubed
  • 200 g smoked bacon, diced
  • 200 g smoked pork knuckle (ciolan), cubed
  • 2 onions, finely chopped
  • 2 kapia peppers (one yellow, one red), finely chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 3 slices celery root, diced
  • 1 parsley root, diced
  • 3 peeled tomatoes (fresh or canned), crushed
  • 2 tbsp sweet paprika
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp ground black pepper
  • 2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder or 2 fresh hot peppers (optional)
  • Salt to taste
  • 1 small bunch fresh parsley, finely chopped

Instructions

1. Prepare Beans

  • Soak dried beans overnight in warm water to soften.

2. Cook Smoked Meats and Vegetables

  • In a large heavy pot (~6 liters), cook diced smoked bacon over low heat until crispy. If fat is insufficient, add 1-2 tbsp oil.
  • Add finely chopped onions and peppers, sprinkle with a pinch of salt, and sauté until onions soften.
  • Add cubed pork leg and smoked pork knuckle, cooking until meat changes color and releases its juices (about 15 minutes).
  • Add diced carrots, celery root, and parsley root. Continue sautéing until moisture evaporates from the meat (around 10 minutes).

3. Add Spices and Simmer

  • Remove pot from heat. Stir in sweet paprika, chili powder, black pepper, and dried thyme until meat is well coated.
  • Pour in 8 cups of water and add crushed tomatoes. Return pot to heat and bring to a boil.
  • Add soaked beans and bay leaves. Reduce heat to low so the stew simmers gently.
  • Simmer uncovered until beans are tender, at least 1.5 hours.
  • After 1 hour, add 2 tsp salt, then adjust seasoning to taste later.
  • Keep hot water nearby to add if the stew reduces too much during cooking.

4. Final Touches

  • Optionally, prepare small flour dumplings (galuscute) similar to those used in potato gulyas to add at the end.
  • Stir in chopped fresh parsley just before turning off heat.
  • Note: The stew thickens further overnight; add a little water when reheating if needed.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve hot with crusty bread or alongside your favorite side dishes for a hearty meal.

💡 Tips

  • Ensure beans are well soaked for faster cooking and better texture.
  • Use good-quality sweet paprika for authentic flavor and color.
  • Adjust chili level according to preference for a mild or spicy stew.
  • Slow simmering and layering of flavors are key to a rich, tender gulyas.

🎉 Perfect For

  • Family dinners and special gatherings
  • Comfort food during cold weather
  • Traditional Hungarian cuisine enthusiasts

📝 Final Thoughts

Bab Gulyas is a flavorful, satisfying stew that blends smoked meats, tender pork, and hearty beans with aromatic spices and fresh vegetables. Its slow cooking develops a deep, comforting taste that shines at any table, especially when prepared with care and patience.