Chop the onions and prepare the carrots, parsley root, potatoes, and other vegetables.
Having everything prepared before cooking makes the process easier.
2. Cook the Onions
Heat a little cooking fat in a large heavy pot.
Add the onions and cook gently until softened and lightly translucent.
The onions form an important flavor base for the soup.
3. Add the Paprika
Reduce the heat or temporarily remove the pot from the burner.
Add Hungarian paprika and stir it into the onions.
This allows the paprika to release its aroma without scorching.
4. Add the Beef
Add the beef cubes and stir them into the paprika and onion mixture.
Cook briefly so the meat becomes coated with the flavorful base.
Garlic and caraway seeds can also be added at this stage.
5. Slowly Cook the Meat
Add enough water to create a generous broth.
Cover the pot and allow the beef to simmer gently.
Slow cooking is essential. The goal is to allow the meat to become tender while the paprika, onions, and other seasonings develop into a flavorful broth.
6. Add the Vegetables
Once the beef has begun to tenderize, add the carrots, parsley root, celery, and other vegetables.
Potatoes are usually added later because they generally require less cooking time than the beef.
