Ok so this thread really got me interested in the orgins of goulash and what is in it. Most of what I found agrees with this definition. Paprika seems to be the defining ingredient that makes it goulash not stew. It is tradionaly made with chunks of beef and simmered for long periods of time.
What does Goulash mean?
Goulash is a soup or stew made with meat, (mostly beef is used, then pork) onions and the most defining ingredient;
paprika.
You can also add , potatoes, root vegetables, and for seasoning sometimes
wine, bay leaf, caraway or thyme.