German Goulash
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
German Goulash is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender beef with rich flavors and spices, perfect for warming up on a chilly day.
German Goulash is not just a meal; it’s a culinary tradition that brings families together. With its origins in Hungary, this dish has been embraced by German cuisine, evolving into the delicious stew we know today. Perfect for a cozy dinner, it offers a delightful combination of flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Hearty and satisfying, perfect for cold nights
- Rich and savory flavors that develop beautifully during cooking
- Easy to prepare and great for meal prep
A Hearty Comfort Food
German Goulash is not just a meal; it's a warm embrace on a chilly day. The combination of tender beef, rich spices, and hearty vegetables creates a dish that is both satisfying and nourishing. As it simmers on the stove, the aroma fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. This dish is perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings with friends, making it a staple in German cuisine.
The beauty of German Goulash lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that tastes like it has been simmering for hours. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and savory stew that will have everyone asking for seconds. Whether served with crusty bread or over a bed of noodles, this goulash is sure to impress.
Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the best aspects of German Goulash is its adaptability for meal prep. This makes it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or for those who want to enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal without the hassle of daily cooking. You can easily double the recipe and freeze portions for later, ensuring you always have a comforting meal on hand.
When reheated, the flavors of the goulash continue to develop, often tasting even better the next day. Simply thaw and reheat on the stove or in the microwave. Pair it with a fresh salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal that is both satisfying and nutritious.
Serving Suggestions
German Goulash is incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. For a traditional touch, serve it with spätzle, a type of soft egg noodle that perfectly complements the rich sauce. Alternatively, you can opt for a side of mashed potatoes or crusty bread to soak up every last drop of this hearty stew. A dollop of sour cream on top can add a delightful creaminess and balance the flavors beautifully.
Don't forget about the garnishes! Fresh parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a touch of freshness that brightens the dish. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile. Regardless of how you choose to serve it, German Goulash is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!
Cooking Instructions
Brown the Beef
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add Spices and Broth
Stir in the paprika, caraway seeds, and tomato paste, cooking for another minute. Return the beef to the pot and pour in the beef broth. Bring to a boil.
Simmer the Goulash
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 1.5 hours. Stir occasionally.
Add Vegetables
Add the carrots and bell pepper, continuing to simmer for another 30 minutes or until the beef is tender.
Serve
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Enjoy your homemade German Goulash with crusty bread or over egg noodles!
Tips for the Best Goulash
To achieve the best flavor in your German Goulash, choose a high-quality beef chuck. The marbling in this cut of meat ensures tenderness and rich flavor as it cooks. Additionally, don’t rush the browning process; allowing the beef to develop a nice crust will enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Using fresh spices is key to maximizing flavor. If possible, opt for whole caraway seeds and grind them just before adding to the pot. This will give your goulash a more aromatic and robust flavor profile. Don't be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your liking—everyone’s palate is different!
Storage and Leftovers
Proper storage is essential for keeping your German Goulash fresh. After it has cooled completely, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it. It can last in the freezer for up to three months, making it a perfect make-ahead meal.
When reheating, do so gently over low heat to prevent the beef from becoming tough. Adding a splash of beef broth or water can help retain moisture and revive the dish. Enjoy the convenience of having a delicious homemade meal ready to go at a moment's notice!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different cut of meat?
Yes, you can use beef stew meat or even pork for a different flavor.
→ How can I make this dish gluten-free?
Ensure that your beef broth and any spices used are gluten-free.
→ Can I prepare this in advance?
Absolutely! Goulash tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded.
→ What can I serve with German Goulash?
It's traditionally served with bread, but you can also enjoy it over rice or noodles.
German Goulash
German Goulash is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender beef with rich flavors and spices, perfect for warming up on a chilly day.
Created by: Emma Parker
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How-To Steps
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the paprika, caraway seeds, and tomato paste, cooking for another minute. Return the beef to the pot and pour in the beef broth. Bring to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 1.5 hours. Stir occasionally.
Add the carrots and bell pepper, continuing to simmer for another 30 minutes or until the beef is tender.
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
- Sodium: 700mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 35g