Hungarian Goulash Soup

Hungarian Goulash Soup

3 bacon strips, diced
1 small green pepper, seeded and chopped
2 medium onions, chopped
1 large garlic clove, minced
1-1/2 pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
2 tablespoons paprika
1-1/2 teaspoons salt
Pepper to taste
Dash sugar
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes
3 cups beef broth
2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
1/2 cup sour cream, optional

In a large kettle, cook bacon until almost crisp. Add green pepper, onions and garlic; cook until tender. Add beef cubes and brown on all sides. Sprinkle with paprika, salt, pepper and sugar; stir and cook for 2 minutes. Add tomatoes and broth.

Cover and simmer for about 1-1/2 hours or until beef is tender. About 1/2 hour before serving, add the potatoes and cook until tender. Garnish each serving with a dollop of sour cream if desired. Makes 8 servings (about 2 quarts).