Hungarian Goulash Soup

This soup is absolutely fantastic! It is a bit spicy, but that can be controlled with the amount of cayenne pepper that you choose to put in. My whole family loves this hearty, filling soup- it's one worth repeating!

• Ready In: 2 hrs 40 mins
• Serves: 6

Ingredients

• 1  lb  lean stew meat
• 1  onion, sliced
• 2  large potatoes, cut in a large dice
• 1⁄2-2  cup  thick-cut carrot (optional)
• 1  tablespoon paprika
• 1⁄2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (start with 1/4 tsp if you don't like much heat.)
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoons salt
• 1  bay leaf
• 6  cups water

Directions

1. I use my dutch oven for this.
2. Caramelize onions in a little olive oil. Remember to do this low and slow! Remove onions from pot.
3. Brown meat with paprika, cayenne, and salt.
4. When meat is brown, add water and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
6. Add potatoes, carrots (optional), and caramelized onions. Return to a boil.
7. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
8. Serve with crusty bread.