Classic German Goulash

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms the heart and fills the belly, you’ve come to the right place! This Classic German Goulash is one of those recipes that feels like a big hug in a bowl. With tender beef and rich flavors from onions, caraway seed, and sweet paprika, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and always impresses!

This dish has become a favorite in my home, not just for its incredible taste but also because it’s one of those meals that brings everyone together. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or served at a festive gathering, this goulash never fails to delight.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: You only need about 30 minutes of hands-on time. The oven does the rest!
• Hearty & Filling: It’s a rich stew that satisfies even the hungriest diners.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with egg noodles, mashed potatoes, or even fresh bread!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the comforting flavors in this dish.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This goulash tastes even better the next day, making it great for meal prep.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful dish. You probably have most of these on hand already!

For the Goulash

• 1½ pounds onions (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 pounds beef chuck roast or stew beef (cubed into 1 to 1½-inch pieces)
• ½ green pepper (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ tomato (seeded and diced, about 1/3 cup)
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt (divided)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika
• 2 teaspoons dried marjoram
• 1 teaspoon caraway seed
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cups beef broth (or bouillon)
• ½ cup dry apple vinegar
• 1 bay leaf
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

Variations

The beauty of this Classic German Goulash is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have available.

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
• Add more veggies: Throw in some carrots or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes if you like a kick.
• Go vegetarian: Substitute meat with hearty beans and vegetable broth for a plant-based option.

How to Make Classic German Goulash

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Place the oven rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 325°. In your heavy pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add in those chopped onions along with ½ teaspoon of kosher salt. Cook them for about 15-20 minutes until they’re very tender and golden. This step is vital as caramelizing the onions brings out their natural sweetness, creating a delicious base for your goulash.

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Once your onions are ready, set them aside in a separate dish. Now it’s time to season your cubed beef chuck roast with the remaining salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Transfer this seasoned meat back into your Dutch oven and cook over medium-high heat for about 5-10 minutes until it’s nicely browned. Browning adds depth of flavor that makes this goulash truly irresistible!

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Now comes the fun part! Stir in those sautéed onions along with the chopped green pepper, diced tomato, minced garlic, sweet Hungarian paprika, dried marjoram, caraway seed, tomato paste, beef broth, dry apple vinegar, and bay leaf. Bring everything to a boil; this step melds all those wonderful flavors together before we move on to braising.

Step 4: Braise in the Oven

Cover your pot with its lid askew so steam can escape—this is important for achieving that tender texture we love! Transfer your pot into the preheated oven and let it cook for about 1½ hours or until the beef is fork-tender. The low-and-slow cooking method allows all those spices and ingredients to mingle beautifully while making your kitchen smell divine!

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

After that wonderful aroma has filled your home, remove the pot from the oven and sprinkle freshly chopped parsley over your goulash. Serve it warm over spaetzle, buttered noodles, or creamy mashed potatoes. Trust me; everyone will be asking for seconds!

Pro Tips for Making Classic German Goulash

Making the perfect German goulash is all about attention to detail and a few key techniques that will elevate your dish. Here are some tips to ensure your goulash turns out wonderfully every time!

• Use Quality Meat: Selecting a good cut of beef, like chuck roast, ensures tenderness and flavor. The marbling in chuck roast melts during cooking, infusing the stew with richness.
• Sauté Onions Well: Cooking the onions until they’re golden brown develops their natural sweetness, which adds depth to the overall flavor of the goulash. Don’t rush this step; it’s worth it!
• Adjust Seasoning: Always taste your goulash before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. A little more salt or paprika can enhance the flavors significantly.
• Let It Rest: Allowing your goulash to sit for a few minutes before serving lets the flavors meld together beautifully. This resting period also thickens the sauce slightly.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to customize the spices according to your preference! Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika can introduce a delightful twist.

How to Serve Classic German Goulash

Serving classic German goulash can be as fun as making it! With its rich flavors and hearty texture, presentation can really make your meal shine. Here are some ideas on how to serve this comforting dish.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also brings a refreshing contrast to the rich stew.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop on top can add creaminess and a slight tang that complements the savory flavors perfectly.

Side Dishes

• Egg Noodles: Classic egg noodles are perfect for soaking up all that delicious gravy. Their tender texture makes them a comforting companion.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes create an indulgent pairing that balances well with the robust flavors of goulash.
• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed green beans or broccoli provide freshness and crunch, making for a complete meal.
• Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread is perfect for mopping up every last drop of sauce, adding a delightful texture to your dining experience.

With these tips and serving suggestions in mind, you’re well on your way to impressing family and friends with your homemade classic German goulash! Enjoy every hearty bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Classic German Goulash is perfect for meal prep, making it a great option for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. You can easily store leftovers or make it ahead of time to enjoy later!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the goulash to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Be sure to label your container with the date for easy reference.

Freezing

• Portion the goulash into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container, as liquids expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or use the microwave on a low setting for quicker thawing.
• Reheat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Add a splash of beef broth if the goulash seems too thick after reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Classic German Goulash:

What can I serve with Classic German Goulash?

Classic German Goulash pairs wonderfully with spaetzle, buttered noodles, or mashed potatoes. You could also serve it alongside crusty bread for mopping up that delicious sauce!

How do I make Classic German Goulash vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of Classic German Goulash, substitute beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms and eggplant. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and adjust seasonings accordingly.

Can I use any type of meat for Classic German Goulash?

While beef is traditional, you can use other meats such as lamb or chicken. Just be aware that cooking times may vary depending on the meat you choose.

How long does it take to cook Classic German Goulash?

This comforting dish requires about 30 minutes of prep time and then approximately 1½ hours of braising in the oven. The result is tender, flavorful beef that melts in your mouth!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Classic German Goulash recipe becomes a cherished addition to your family meals! Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients are sure to warm your heart and home. Enjoy every moment spent preparing this delicious dish, and don’t hesitate to share your experience with me. Happy cooking!