German Goulash Recipe

This hearty German goulash is packed with rich, savory flavors and tender beef simmered to perfection in a flavorful sauce. It’s a comforting one-pot meal that’s perfect for cold nights, family dinners, or meal prepping. Serve it over egg noodles, potatoes, or with a side of crusty bread to soak up every delicious drop!

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Why You’ll Love This German Goulash

• Rich and Flavorful: Slow-cooked beef in a deeply seasoned broth makes for a truly comforting dish.
• One-Pot Wonder: Less cleanup and more flavor development!
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
• Customizable: Adjust the spices and ingredients to suit your taste.

Ingredients for German Goulash

• 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 large onions, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon paprika (sweet or smoked)
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional, for authentic flavor)
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon red wine vinegar (for added depth)
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried marjoram or thyme
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)

Tools You’ll Need

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Cutting board and knife
• Measuring cups and spoons

How to Make German Goulash

Step 1: Brown the Beef

• Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
• Add the beef cubes in batches and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

• In the same pot, add the chopped onions and cook until soft and golden brown, about 5 minutes.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

• Add the tomato paste, paprika, caraway seeds, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to coat the onions.

Step 4: Simmer the Goulash

• Return the browned beef to the pot and add the beef broth, diced tomatoes, carrots, Worcestershire sauce, vinegar, bay leaves, and marjoram.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beef is tender.

Step 5: Thicken the Sauce (Optional)

• If you prefer a thicker sauce, mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir into the goulash and simmer for another 5 minutes.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

• Remove the bay leaves and serve the goulash hot over egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or with crusty bread.

Serving Suggestions

• This goulash pairs perfectly with buttered spaetzle, boiled potatoes, or crusty rye bread.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for an extra touch of flavor.

Tips for the Best German Goulash

• Use the Right Cut of Beef: Chuck roast or stewing beef works best as it becomes incredibly tender when slow-cooked.
• Don’t Rush the Cooking: Low and slow cooking helps develop the deep, rich flavors of the dish.
• Make it a Day Ahead: The flavors intensify overnight, making it even more delicious the next day.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a little broth if needed.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Brown the beef and onions first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours.

Q2: Can I use a different type of meat?
A: Yes! You can use chicken or turkey, but the cooking time will be shorter.

Q3: What if I don’t have caraway seeds?
A: You can skip them or replace them with a small pinch of fennel seeds for a similar flavor.

Conclusion: A Hearty and Comforting Dish!

This German goulash is packed with rich, warming flavors that make it a perfect meal for cozy nights. Whether you serve it with noodles, potatoes, or crusty bread, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Try it today and enjoy a taste of traditional German comfort food!

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Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 2 hours

Nutritional Information (per serving)

Calories: 350
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 15g
Fat: 18g
Fiber: 3g

Enjoy this delicious, hearty goulash and share it with your loved ones!

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