Transylvanian Cabbage Gulyas

Experience the rich, comforting flavors of Transylvanian Cabbage Gulyas, a hearty Hungarian-inspired stew that combines tender chunks of beef chuck, velvety green cabbage, and aromatic spices like smoked paprika, caraway seeds, and marjoram. Slow-simmered in savory beef stock and finished with a tangy splash of white vinegar, this one-pot dish creates a perfect balance of smoky, earthy, and zesty flavors. The addition of tomato paste deepens the stew's flavor profile, while optional garnishes of sour cream and fresh parsley add a creamy, bright contrast. Perfect for cold evenings or any time you crave a soul-warming meal, this cabbage gulyas is a must-try for lovers of Eastern European cuisine. Ready in just over two hours and ideal for serving family-style, this recipe is as satisfying to make as it is to eat.

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:120 mins

Total Time:140 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 medium head (about 2 pounds) green cabbage
• 1.5 pounds beef chuck
• 2 medium onion
• 3 garlic cloves
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
• 4 cups beef stock
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon (or to taste) salt
• 0.5 teaspoon (or to taste) ground black pepper
• 0.5 cup (optional, for serving) sour cream
• 2 tablespoons (chopped, optional for garnish) fresh parsley

Directions

Step 1

Prepare the ingredients: Finely chop the onions and garlic. Core and thinly shred the cabbage. Cut the beef chuck into bite-sized cubes.

Step 2

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef and sear on all sides until browned. Remove the beef from the pot and set aside.

Step 3

Lower the heat to medium and add the onions. Cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Step 4

Stir in the tomato paste, smoked paprika, caraway seeds, and marjoram. Cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to bloom.

Step 5

Return the beef to the pot along with any juices it has released. Pour in the beef stock and add the shredded cabbage. Stir well to combine.

Step 6

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Simmer gently for 90 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 7

After 90 minutes, stir in the white vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the gulyas simmer uncovered for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the stew to slightly thicken.

Step 8

Remove the pot from heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Ladle the gulyas into bowls. Optionally, garnish with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	3110.1 grams (3110.1g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2524

Total Fat 146.40g	188%
Saturated Fat 59.30g	297%
Polyunsaturated Fat 22.20g
Cholesterol 684mg	228%
Sodium 8812mg	383%
Total Carbohydrate 115.00g	42%
Dietary Fiber 35.60g	127%
Total Sugars 58.40g
Protein 213.10g	426%

Vitamin D 27IU	136%
Calcium 831mg	64%
Iron 35mg	192%
Potassium 5641mg	120%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 50.1%

Protein: 32.4%

Carbs: 17.5%