Authentic German Goulash Recipe: A Hearty Beef Stew

There’s something deeply comforting about a bowl of rich, savory stew on a chilly day. For many, Authentic German Goulash holds a special place as the ultimate comfort food. With tender beef, caramelized onions, aromatic spices, and a velvety sauce, this dish embodies the hearty flavors of traditional German cuisine. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or simply craving something warm and filling, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy.

Imagine the smell of sweet paprika and simmering beef filling your kitchen, creating an inviting aroma that promises an unforgettable meal. Let’s explore the history, flavors, and steps to make this classic German dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is perfect for those who crave bold flavors and tender meat in a luscious, comforting sauce. German goulash is not your average beef stew—it’s a rich, slow-cooked dish that builds flavor over time, making every bite deeply satisfying.

You’ll love how simple it is to prepare, even though it tastes like it came from a gourmet kitchen. With basic ingredients and a few aromatic spices, you can recreate the authentic flavors of Germany right in your own home.

Plus, it’s highly versatile! Serve it with egg noodles, potatoes, or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you need to make this authentic German goulash:

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Onions, chopped	1 ½ lbs
Olive oil	2 tbsp
Beef chuck roast, cubed	2 lbs
Green pepper, chopped	½
Garlic, minced	3 cloves
Tomato, diced	½
Kosher salt	1 tsp, divided
Black pepper	½ tsp

For Flavor and Sauce

Ingredient	Quantity
Sweet paprika	2 tbsp
Dried marjoram	2 tsp
Caraway seed	1 tsp
Tomato paste	2 tbsp
Beef broth	2 cups
Dry red wine	½ cup
Bay leaf	1
Sour cream	½ cup

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients

• Chop the onions and green pepper.
• Mince the garlic and dice the tomato.
• Cube the beef chuck roast into bite-sized pieces.

Prepping your ingredients beforehand ensures a smooth cooking process and allows you to focus on building flavors.

2. Cook the Onions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and caramelized.

The onions are the foundation of this goulash, adding a natural sweetness and depth to the dish.

3. Brown the Beef

1. Add the cubed beef to the pot with the onions.
2. Season the beef with ½ tsp kosher salt and ½ tsp black pepper.
3. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned on all sides.

Browning the beef locks in the juices and enhances the overall flavor of the stew.

4. Add Vegetables and Spices

1. Stir in the chopped green pepper, minced garlic, and diced tomato.
2. Add the sweet paprika, dried marjoram, and caraway seed.
3. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the spices are fragrant and the vegetables start to soften.

This step allows the spices to bloom, intensifying their flavors.

5. Incorporate the Tomato Paste and Liquid

1. Stir in the tomato paste, ensuring it evenly coats the meat and vegetables.
2. Pour in the beef broth and red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits (this is where the flavor lives).
3. Add the bay leaf and the remaining ½ tsp of kosher salt.

The combination of beef broth and red wine creates a rich, savory sauce that elevates the dish.

6. Simmer the Goulash

1. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.
2. Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

As the goulash simmers, the beef becomes tender, and the flavors meld together into a velvety sauce.

7. Finish the Goulash

1. Once the beef is tender, remove the bay leaf.
2. Stir in the sour cream until it’s fully blended into the sauce.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

The sour cream adds a creamy texture and a slight tang that balances the richness of the dish.

8. Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the goulash hot over egg noodles, boiled potatoes, or crusty bread.
2. Garnish with a dollop of sour cream or freshly chopped parsley for a pop of freshness.

This hearty stew is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers are just as delicious the next day as the flavors continue to develop.

Tips for Making the Perfect German Goulash

1. Use Quality Beef: Opt for beef chuck roast or a similar cut that becomes tender when slow-cooked.
2. Caramelize the Onions: Don’t rush this step—golden brown onions add sweetness and depth to the dish.
3. Simmer Slowly: Low and slow cooking ensures the beef becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender.
4. Customize the Spice: Adjust the paprika, marjoram, or caraway seed to suit your taste preferences.
5. Balance the Sauce: The red wine and sour cream create a balanced sauce—don’t skip these key ingredients!

Nutritional Benefits of German Goulash

This dish isn’t just comforting; it’s also packed with nutrients:

1. Beef: A great source of protein, iron, and zinc, supporting muscle health and immunity.
2. Onions and Peppers: Loaded with antioxidants, vitamins C and B6, and fiber.
3. Paprika and Spices: Contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties.
4. Sour Cream: Adds calcium and a creamy texture while balancing the dish’s richness.

Common Variations of German Goulash

1. Pork Goulash: Substitute the beef with pork shoulder or stew meat for a slightly different flavor profile.
2. Vegetarian Goulash: Replace the beef with mushrooms and root vegetables like carrots and parsnips.
3. Spicy Goulash: Add red pepper flakes or hot paprika for a spicier kick.
4. Thicker Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water) during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
5. Hungarian Twist: Add Hungarian hot paprika and diced potatoes for a traditional Hungarian-style goulash.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make German goulash in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the beef and onions on the stovetop, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

2. What’s the best side dish for goulash?

Egg noodles, boiled potatoes, or crusty bread are traditional and delicious options.

3. Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Let the goulash cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

4. Can I skip the red wine?

If you prefer not to use alcohol, substitute the red wine with an equal amount of beef broth or grape juice.

5. How do I thicken the sauce?

For a thicker sauce, let the goulash simmer uncovered during the last 20 minutes of cooking, or add a cornstarch slurry.

6. What’s the difference between German and Hungarian goulash?

German goulash focuses on a rich, meaty sauce, while Hungarian goulash often includes more paprika and potatoes, creating a soupier consistency.

Final Thoughts

This Authentic German Goulash Recipe is the epitome of comfort food. Its tender beef, caramelized onions, and fragrant spices create a hearty stew that’s perfect for cozy nights or family gatherings. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a dish that everyone will love.

So, gather your ingredients, grab your favorite pot, and start cooking this classic German dish. Your taste buds (and your family) will thank you!

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