Description
Rich, hearty, and packed with deep, savory flavors, this German Goulash is the perfect comfort food! Made with tender beef, onions, and a flavorful broth, this slow-simmered stew is warm, satisfying, and perfect for chilly days. Serve it with bread, noodles, or potatoes for an authentic, cozy meal.
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Ingredients
Scale
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 3 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- ½ teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon dried marjoram (or oregano)
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 2 large potatoes, diced (optional, for a heartier stew)
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Beef
- Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef cubes in batches, searing them until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Onions & Garlic
- In the same pot, add sliced onions and cook until golden and caramelized (about 10 minutes).
- Stir in garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
Step 3: Build the Flavor
- Add tomato paste and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Return the beef to the pot and pour in beef broth and diced tomatoes.
- Stir in salt, pepper, smoked paprika, sweet paprika, caraway seeds, bay leaves, Worcestershire sauce, red wine vinegar, and marjoram.
Step 4: Simmer the Goulash
- Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
- After 1 hour, add diced carrots and potatoes (if using).
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Once the beef is tender and the broth has thickened slightly, remove bay leaves.
- Taste and adjust seasonings if needed.
- Serve hot with crusty bread, egg noodles, or mashed potatoes.
Notes
- Use Good-Quality Beef: Chuck roast or stew meat works best.
- Low & Slow Cooking: The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor!
- Caramelize the Onions: This adds a deep, slightly sweet flavor.
- For a Thicker Goulash: Simmer uncovered for the last 20 minutes.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Cuisine: American