German goulash is a hearty and delicious stew that has warmed the hearts of many for generations. Originating from Germany, this dish features tender chunks of beef simmered in a rich, flavorful sauce made with onions, paprika, and a blend of spices. It’s a popular comfort food, especially during chilly months, as it not only fills the stomach but also provides a sense of home and nostalgia.
Whether you’re enjoying it at a family gathering or cozying up with a bowl at home, German goulash offers warmth and comfort in every spoonful. So, let’s dive into the heart of this dish and explore how to make your very own German goulash!
Ingredients for German Goulash
- 2 lbs beef stew meat, cubed
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 onions, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp sweet paprika
- 1 tsp caraway seeds
- 1 tsp marjoram (optional)
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step German Goulash Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
- Prepare the beef: Start by cutting the beef stew meat into evenly-sized cubes if not pre-cut. Pat them dry with paper towels to help achieve a good sear.
- Heat the oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to get hot.
- Brown the beef: Add the cubed beef to the pot in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pot (you may need to do this in batches). Sear the beef for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until browned on all sides.
- Remove and set aside: Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside on a plate. This will help to retain the juices.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic
- Sauté the onions: In the same pot, add the chopped onions. Sauté over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, or until they become golden and translucent.
- Add garlic: Once the onions are golden, add the minced garlic to the pot. Cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning the garlic.
Step 3: Add Seasoning
- Incorporate the tomato paste and spices: Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste, 2 tablespoons of sweet paprika, 1 teaspoon of caraway seeds, and 1 teaspoon of marjoram (if using).
- Cook the mixture: Allow this mixture to cook for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant. This will enhance the flavors of the spices.
Step 4: Simmer the Goulash
- Return the beef to the pot: Add the browned beef back into the pot, mixing it with the sautéed onion and garlic mixture.
- Add liquids: Pour in 4 cups of beef broth and 1 cup of water. Add 2 bay leaves to the mixture.
- Bring to a boil: Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat and cover: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for 2-3 hours. Stir occasionally. The goulash is ready when the beef is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Step 5: Season and Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning: After the goulash has simmered and the beef is tender, taste it and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Remove bay leaves: Before serving, remove the bay leaves from the pot.
- Serve: Ladle the German Goulash into bowls or over a bed of potatoes, noodles, or spaetzle for a hearty meal.
Tips for Making the Perfect German Goulash
To make the perfect German goulash, there are a few key cooking tips that can elevate the dish to new heights.
First, consider slow cooking your goulash. Allowing the beef to simmer gently for a longer time helps to break down the meat, making it tender and flavorful. This method also allows the spices to meld together, creating a rich sauce that’s full of depth. Additionally, don’t shy away from adjusting the spices to your taste.
However, it’s important to avoid some common mistakes when making this dish. For instance, don’t rush the browning process of the beef. Taking your time to brown the meat properly adds a rich, caramelized flavor to the stew.
Moreover, be careful not to add too much liquid at the start. You want the goulash to be thick and hearty, so add just enough broth or water to cover the meat without drowning it.
Finally, pairing your German goulash with the right side dishes can enhance the meal even further. Traditionally, it is served with warm, crusty bread or soft egg noodles, which soak up the flavorful sauce beautifully. Alternatively, you can serve it with dumplings or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal. Ultimately, with these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to creating a delicious and memorable German goulash!
FAQ
How spicy is German goulash?
German goulash is generally not very spicy. It focuses more on savory flavors from paprika and onions. However, you can adjust the spice level by adding more paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper if you prefer a bit of heat.
How do I store leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the goulash cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I make German goulash in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make German goulash in a slow cooker! Simply brown the meat and onions in a pan, then transfer everything to the slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Is German goulash gluten-free?
The traditional recipe is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth and avoid adding flour or pasta. Always check the labels of the ingredients you use to ensure they are gluten-free.