There’s something magical about a hearty bowl of German goulash, a dish that warms you from the inside out. Picture tender beef simmering in a rich, savory sauce, infused with spices that dance on your taste buds. creamy pasta alternative The aroma wafts through the air like a comforting hug on a cold day.
I still remember the first time I tasted this delightful dish at my grandmother’s kitchen table, where every spoonful felt like home. It was the perfect centerpiece for family gatherings, bringing everyone together over laughter and good food. light dessert after goulash If you’re looking to impress your friends or family, or simply want to indulge in some comfort food, this German goulash is sure to do the trick!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This incredible German goulash is easy to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or leisurely weekends
- Rich flavors combine beautifully with tender meat and fresh vegetables
- Its vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any table
- It’s versatile enough to serve with bread, rice, or noodles
I remember one chilly evening when I made this dish for a cozy gathering. My friends were skeptical about trying something new but their faces lit up with delight after the first bite! The compliments just kept pouring in, and it turned into an impromptu cooking lesson right in my kitchen.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Beef Chuck Roast: This cut is perfect for slow cooking as it becomes tender and flavorful when simmered for hours. For more inspiration, check out this cheesy beef wraps recipe.
- Onions: Use large yellow onions for their sweetness; they’ll caramelize beautifully in the pot.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic adds depth; don’t skimp on this aromatic wonder.
- Bell Peppers: Choose vibrant red or green peppers for sweetness and color; they brighten up the dish.
- Tomato Paste: A deep flavor booster; it enriches the sauce and gives it body.
- Beef Broth: Homemade stock is best, but store-bought works too; it’ll keep everything moist and flavorful.
- Paprika: Use smoked paprika for a unique twist that elevates the flavor profile.
- Dried Herbs (Thyme and Bay Leaves): These herbs are essential for adding aromatic notes that make your goulash unforgettable.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all other flavors together beautifully.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by chopping your onions, bell peppers, and garlic while your beef rests at room temperature. This makes cooking smoother since everything will be ready when you need it. The colorful veggies will make your kitchen feel vibrant and inviting.
Sear the Beef: In a large pot over medium-high heat, add a splash of oil and sear your beef chunks until they’re golden brown on all sides. This step locks in those juicy flavors! Don’t rush—allow them to develop that perfect crust.
Add Onions and Garlic: Toss in your chopped onions and minced garlic once the beef is browned. Cook until the onions turn translucent and release their sweet aroma, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom of your pot.
Stir in Veggies: Add bell peppers next. Their sweetness will complement the savory beef beautifully! Stir until they’re slightly softened—this takes around 3 minutes—making sure all those flavors mingle.
Create Your Sauce: Mix in tomato paste along with smoked paprika and herbs. Pour in the beef broth gradually while scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot—this is where flavor magic happens! Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing to a simmer.
Simmer Away: Cover your pot and let it simmer on low heat for about 2 hours until the beef is fork-tender. Stir occasionally; enjoy how fragrant your kitchen has become! If you’re feeling fancy, serve with fresh parsley sprinkled on top before serving.
Now you have an incredible German goulash ready to warm hearts (and stomachs). Enjoy every bite!
You Must Know
- German Goulash is not just a meal; it’s an experience
- The rich aromas wafting through your kitchen will make everyone flock to the dining table
- This hearty dish is a flavorful blend of tender beef, spices, and vegetables, perfect for any occasion
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the beef in batches to achieve that crispy crust. Then deglaze the pot with broth and add onions, garlic, and spices before simmering for maximum flavor infusion.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to mix things up with your German Goulash! Swap out beef for pork or turkey, toss in some mushrooms or bell peppers, or experiment with spices to create your signature twist on this classic dish. savory sandwich option.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover German Goulash in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat to preserve its robust flavors.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For a truly authentic experience, use quality paprika and allow it to bloom in oil before adding other ingredients
- Don’t rush the simmering process; patience enhances the flavors beautifully
- Also, let your goulash sit for a day; it tastes even better after flavors meld overnight!
Sharing my first attempt at making German Goulash felt like a rite of passage. My friends were skeptical, but their delighted faces when they tasted it made all those hours worth it. For more inspiration, check out this German chocolate delight recipe.
FAQ
What is the best cut of meat for German Goulash?
Chuck roast is ideal for German Goulash due to its marbling and tenderness after slow cooking. Avoid lean cuts as they may dry out and become tough during cooking.
Can I make German Goulash in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Browning the meat first adds depth of flavor. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until tender and flavorful.
What sides pair well with German Goulash?
German Goulash pairs wonderfully with egg noodles, crusty bread, or buttery mashed potatoes. A light salad can also complement this hearty dish perfectly without overshadowing its richness. perfect crusty bread pairing.
German Goulash
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
German Goulash is a comforting, hearty dish that warms the soul with each bite. This recipe features tender beef chuck simmered in a rich, savory sauce, highlighting aromatic spices and fresh vegetables. With its vibrant colors and robust flavors, this German classic is perfect for impressing guests or enjoying a cozy night in.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 large yellow onions, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bell peppers (1 red, 1 green), chopped
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Prep your ingredients by chopping onions, bell peppers, and garlic.
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, add olive oil and sear beef until golden brown on all sides.
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot; cook until onions are translucent (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in bell peppers and cook for another 3 minutes until softened.
- Mix in tomato paste, smoked paprika, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper.
- Gradually pour in beef broth while scraping any browned bits from the bottom; bring to a gentle boil.
- Reduce heat to low and cover; simmer for about 2 hours until beef is fork-tender.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg