Dinner Recipes

December 21, 2025

German Goulash: 7 Comforting Tips for Perfect Flavor

Name: German Goulash: 7 Comforting Tips for Perfect Flavor
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into cubes; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons paprika; 1 teaspoon caraway seeds; 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes; 4 cups beef broth; 2 medium carrots, sliced; 1 bell pepper, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Recipe by

Mia

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German Goulash: 7 Comforting Tips for Perfect Flavor

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Oh my goodness, let me tell you about German goulash! It’s one of those cozy, soul-warming dishes that just makes you feel like you’re wrapped in a big, warm blanket. I remember the first time I tried it at a friend’s family gathering—everyone was huddled around the table, savoring the rich aroma wafting through the air. The tender beef, the vibrant spices, and the hearty vegetables—it was love at first bite! The flavors meld together beautifully, creating this wonderful, hearty stew that’s perfect for chilly evenings. I often whip it up on Sundays, letting it simmer away while I catch up on my favorite shows. Trust me, once you make this goulash, it’ll become a regular in your kitchen too!

Ingredients for German Goulash

You’ll need some hearty ingredients to make this German goulash truly shine. Here’s what you’ll gather:

2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons paprika (this gives it that beautiful color!)
1 teaspoon caraway seeds for a hint of earthiness
1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes, juices included
4 cups beef broth for depth of flavor
2 medium carrots, sliced into rounds
1 bell pepper, chopped (any color you like!)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish—because it just makes everything look lovely!

How to Prepare German Goulash

Getting your German goulash just right is all about following a few simple steps. Don’t worry; it’s easier than it sounds! Let’s dive in:

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it hot enough to brown the beef nicely!
Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the beef cubes. Brown them on all sides—this should take about 5-7 minutes. It’s key for building flavor!
Now, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté them until the onions become translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Your kitchen will smell amazing!
Stir in the paprika and caraway seeds, cooking for just 1 minute. This step is crucial—it releases all those wonderful spices into the air.
Next, pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices and the beef broth. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat.
Cover the pot and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow cooking makes the beef super tender and lets all those flavors meld together beautifully.
After the time’s up, add the sliced carrots and chopped bell pepper. Cook for an additional 30 minutes until the veggies are tender.
Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a good stir, and garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy every comforting bite!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk numbers! While I can’t promise exact values, here’s a rough estimate for a serving of this delicious German goulash:

Calories: 450
Fat: 20g
Protein: 35g
Carbohydrates: 30g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 800mg
Fiber: 4g

Keep in mind that these values can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes, but it gives you a good idea of the hearty goodness packed into each bowl!

FAQ About German Goulash

Got questions about German goulash? No problem! Here are some common queries I get, along with my thoughts to help you out:

What’s the difference between German goulash and Hungarian goulash?
Great question! While both are delicious, German goulash tends to be thicker and focuses on the meat and broth, whereas Hungarian goulash often includes more paprika and has a soup-like consistency. Both are wonderful, but they each have their unique charm!

Can I use other meats for goulash?
Absolutely! While beef chuck is traditional, you can experiment with pork or even chicken if you’re feeling adventurous. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary a bit.

How can I make goulash spicier?
If you like a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños. You could also toss in some red pepper flakes for a subtle kick!

Can I make German goulash in a slow cooker?
You bet! Just brown the meat and sauté the veggies first, then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for about 6-8 hours for a deliciously tender result.

What should I serve with German goulash?
This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, egg noodles, or even some fluffy mashed potatoes. Don’t forget a sprinkle of fresh parsley to brighten it up!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty and satisfying, perfect for chilly evenings.
Easy to prepare with simple, everyday ingredients.
Rich flavors that develop beautifully as it simmers.
Great for leftovers—tastes even better the next day!
Versatile and customizable to suit your taste preferences.

Tips for Success with German Goulash

To make your German goulash absolutely perfect, here are some tried-and-true tips from my own kitchen adventures:

Don’t rush the browning: Take your time to brown the beef well; it adds so much flavor to the dish.
Quality broth matters: Use a good-quality beef broth for a deeper, richer taste—homemade is even better!
Adjust the spices: Don’t hesitate to tweak the paprika and caraway seeds to match your palate. A little extra paprika can add a lovely color and flavor.
Simmer low and slow: Letting it simmer gently results in tender beef and a beautifully melded flavor profile.
Garnish generously: A sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving brightens the dish and adds a pop of color!

Variations of German Goulash

If you’re feeling adventurous, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on German goulash! Here are some ideas to get you started:

Herbs and Spices: Swap out the caraway seeds for thyme or rosemary for a different aromatic twist.
Veggie Boost: Add in some diced potatoes or peas for extra heartiness and color.
Mushroom Magic: Throw in some sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor that complements the beef beautifully.
Smoky Flavor: Try adding a bit of smoked paprika or even some bacon for a smoky depth.
Sweet Touch: A dash of balsamic vinegar or a tablespoon of brown sugar can balance out the flavors perfectly!

These variations not only enhance the dish but also make it uniquely yours—so feel free to experiment!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Leftover German goulash is a gift that keeps on giving! To store it, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you want to save it for later, you can freeze it for up to 3 months—just make sure to portion it out for easy defrosting!

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, pop it in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also use the microwave, but be sure to cover it to keep it from drying out. Enjoy that hearty goodness all over again!

For more information on the nutritional benefits of beef, check out this resource. If you’re interested in learning about the history of goulash, visit The Spruce Eats. And for tips on cooking with paprika, see Food Network.

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