Warm up your kitchen with the rich and comforting flavors of a traditional German Goulash. This hearty beef stew, slow-cooked with onions, paprika, and caraway seeds, is the perfect dish for a cozy dinner. Whether served over egg noodles or paired with tender potatoes, this goulash is a flavorful and satisfying meal that brings the taste of Germany right to your table.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ lbs onions, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cubed
- ½ green pepper, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tomato, diced
- 1 tsp kosher salt, divided
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp sweet paprika
- 2 tsp dried marjoram
- 1 tsp caraway seed
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 cups beef broth
- ½ cup dry red wine
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ cup sour cream
Instructions:
- Prepare the Onions and Beef : In a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 8-10 minutes
- Brown the Beef : In the same pot, add the cubed beef chuck roast. Brown the beef on all sides, allowing it to develop a rich color, about 5-7 minutes. Season the beef with ½ teaspoon of kosher salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper as it browns.
- Add Vegetables and Spices : Once the beef is browned, add the chopped green pepper, minced garlic, and diced tomato to the pot. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften. Stir in the sweet paprika, dried marjoram, and caraway seeds, coating the beef and vegetables evenly with the spices.
- Incorporate Tomato Paste and Liquids : Stir in the tomato paste, ensuring it is well blended with the other ingredients. Pour in the beef broth and dry red wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the bay leaf and return the sautéed onions to the pot.
- Simmer the Goulash : Heat the mixture until it starts to simmer, then lower the heat to maintain a gentle cook. Cover the pot and let the goulash cook slowly for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and the flavors are well developed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Finish and Serve : Once the beef is tender, remove the bay leaf and stir in the remaining ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. If you desire a creamier texture, you can also stir in the sour cream at this point, or serve it on the side as a garnish. Serve the goulash hot over egg noodles or alongside potatoes, and enjoy a taste of German comfort food at its finest.
Conclusion:
This Traditional German Goulash is a deeply flavorful and satisfying dish that’s perfect for those who love hearty meals. The slow-cooked beef, combined with the savory blend of spices, creates a stew that’s both rich and comforting. Whether you’re serving it for a special family dinner or simply craving something warm and filling, this goulash will quickly become a favorite in your recipe collection.