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May 30, 2025
Wondering about goulash vs pörkölt? Discover the key differences, taste tips, and where to try them in Budapest’s food scene.
Planning a trip to Hungary and curious about goulash vs. pörkölt? These iconic dishes may look similar, but they’re surprisingly different — and every foodie visiting Budapest should know why. Here’s your 2025 guide to their origins, flavors, and where to try them for real.
🇭🇺 What is Hungary’s National Dish?
Goulash (gulyás) is widely considered the national dish of Hungary. Originally cooked by herdsmen over open fires on the Great Hungarian Plain, this hearty dish dates back to the 9th century. Today, it’s a staple of Hungarian cuisine and culture.
But goulash is just one of several paprika-rich stews that Hungary is known for — and pörkölt is a close (and equally delicious) cousin.
🔍 Goulash vs. Pörkölt: Let’s Compare
Feature | Goulash (Gulyás) | Pörkölt |
Texture | Soup-like, brothy | Thick stew |
Ingredients | Beef (sometimes pork), carrots, potatoes, paprika | Diced meat (beef, pork, or chicken), onions, paprika |
Cooking Style | Simmered with vegetables | Slow-cooked meat with thick sauce |
Traditional Side | Bread | Nokedli (Hungarian dumplings) |
Goulash is a soup, typically served as a starter or lighter main dish. It’s often flavored with caraway seeds, root vegetables, and paprika.
Pörkölt, on the other hand, is more like a meat stew — heartier and thicker, usually served with nokedli, similar to German spaetzle. The flavor is bold, rich, and deeply savory thanks to its slow-cooked base of onions and paprika.
Here are our guests enjoying Goulash soup during the Foodapest Food Tour:
🍷 Common Questions About Goulash and Pörkölt
Is goulash from the Czech Republic?
Goulash originated in Hungary, though it’s beloved across Central Europe — including in the Czech Republic, where it’s often served with bread dumplings and a darker sauce.
Are there different types of goulash?
Yes — Hungary offers several variations like:
Bean goulash
Székely gulyás (with sauerkraut)
Betyár gulyás (a spicier “outlaw” version) These regional twists all reflect the country’s passion for bold flavors and paprika.
Do you put wine in goulash?
While traditional Hungarian goulash usually doesn’t include wine as an ingredient, it’s very common to enjoy it with a glass of red wine on the side. The pairing enhances the depth of flavor and is especially popular in colder months.
🍽️ Ready to taste authentic goulash and pörkölt in Budapest?
Join our top-rated Foodapest Food Tour for over 16 tastings, insider stories, and unforgettable Hungarian flavors.
👉 Reserve your spot now — tours fill up fast!