Hungarian in Hungary Park? Exploring a Chicago Neighborhood’s Cuisine Cheaply

While Chicago is famous for its Polish and German heritage, you might be surprised to learn that the city also has a rich Hungarian culture. While there may not be a “Hungary Park” to rival Humboldt Park’s Puerto Rican pride, you can still find delicious and authentic Hungarian food in Chicago. This guide will show you how to explore the hearty and flavorful world of Hungarian cuisine on a budget.

The Star of the Show: Goulash

No exploration of Hungarian cuisine would be complete without a big, steaming bowl of goulash. This hearty beef and vegetable stew, seasoned generously with paprika, is the national dish of Hungary and the perfect comfort food for a cold Chicago day.

Budget-Friendly Recipe:

• Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 large onions, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup sweet Hungarian paprika
  • 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • Salt and pepper to taste

• Instructions:

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the beef in batches and set aside.
  2. Add the onions to the pot and cook until softened.
  3. Add the garlic and paprika and cook for 1 minute more.
  4. Stir in the diced tomatoes and beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
  5. Return the beef to the pot, along with the carrots and potatoes. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook for 2-3 hours, or until the beef is tender.
  6. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Other Hungarian Delights

• Chicken Paprikash: A creamy chicken and paprika stew that’s another Hungarian classic.
• Lángos: A deep-fried flatbread that’s a popular street food in Hungary. It’s often topped with sour cream and cheese.
• Kürtőskalács (Chimney Cake): A sweet, spiral-shaped pastry that’s a festive treat.

Finding Hungarian Ingredients in Chicago

You can find Hungarian paprika and other specialty ingredients at some of the larger Jewel-Osco stores with extensive international aisles, or at specialty European markets like the European Market in Lincoln Square.

Hungarian Restaurants in Chicago

If you want to try Hungarian food before you cook it at home, there are a few great options in Chicago. The Hungarian-American owned “The Danube” in the Loop is a great place to start.

So next time you’re looking for a delicious and hearty meal, give Hungarian cuisine a try. You might just find your new favorite comfort food.