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German Goulash Recipe Perfect for Easy Comfort Food

German goulash - featured image

A rich, hearty, and flavorful dish made with tender beef, onions, and paprika, perfect for chilly evenings and comforting meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds beef chuck, cubed
  • 2 large yellow onions, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons sweet paprika
  • 1 tablespoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Slice the onions, mince the garlic, and cube the beef into bite-sized pieces. Season the beef with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat vegetable oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches and sear until browned on all sides. Remove and set aside.
  3. In the same pot, add the sliced onions and cook over medium heat until golden and caramelized, about 10 minutes.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Sprinkle in the paprika and caraway seeds (if using) and stir to coat the onions evenly.
  6. Add the tomato paste and beef broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
  7. Return the browned beef to the pot, add bay leaves, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover and cook on low heat for 2–2.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
  8. Check for tenderness. The beef should be fork-tender, and the sauce should have thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  9. Ladle the goulash into bowls and enjoy while hot!

Notes

For extra depth, add a splash of red wine during cooking. If the sauce gets too thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it up. Remove bay leaves before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: German goulash, comfort food, beef stew, paprika, slow-cooked meal