Authentic Hungarian Goulash (gulyas Leves)

Serves 6.. Cut beef into 1 inch squares, add 1/2 tsp. salt. Chop onions and brown in shortening, add beef and paprika. Let beef simmer in its own juice along with salt and paprika for 1 hr. on low heat. Add bay leaves, water, diced potatoes, black pepper, and remaining salt. Cover and simmer until potatoes are done and meat is tender. Prepare egg dumpling batter: 1 egg 6 Tbsp. flour 1/8 tsp. salt Add flour to unbeaten egg and salt. Mix well. Let stand for 1/2 hour for flour to mellow. Drop by teaspoonful into Goulash. Cover and simmer 5 minutes after dumplings rise to surface. Serve hot with dollops of sour cream.