Classic German Goulash

This Classic German Goulash is a comforting and hearty dish that warms the soul. With its rich flavors and tender beef, it’s perfect for family dinners or gatherings. The combination of onions, paprika, and spices creates a unique taste that will delight anyone at your table. Whether served over egg noodles or potatoes, this goulash is sure to impress on any occasion.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Stew
• How to Make Classic German Goulash
• Step 1: Preheat the Oven
• Step 2: Sauté the Onions
• Step 3: Brown the Beef
• Step 4: Combine Ingredients
• Step 5: Braise in the Oven
• Step 6: Serve Your Goulash
• How to Serve Classic German Goulash
• Over Noodles
• With Potatoes
• Topped with Fresh Herbs
• Accompanied by Bread
• How to Perfect Classic German Goulash
• Best Side Dishes for Classic German Goulash
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Classic German Goulash
• Reheating Classic German Goulash
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Classic German Goulash?
• Can I use other meats instead of beef?
• What sides go well with Classic German Goulash?
• How do I customize Classic German Goulash?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Prep Time: With just 30 minutes of hands-on work, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Rich Flavor: The blend of sweet Hungarian paprika and caraway seed gives this stew a robust flavor profile.
• Versatile Serving Options: Pair it with spaetzle, buttered noodles, or mashed potatoes for a customizable meal.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.
• Family-Friendly: Its comforting flavors appeal to both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools to make your experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Heavy pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Heavy pot or Dutch oven: This is essential for even heat distribution, ensuring your goulash cooks perfectly.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quick and easy, enhancing your prep time.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring ingredients without scratching your pot’s surface.

Ingredients

For the Stew

• 1½ pounds onions (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 pounds beef chuck roast or stew beef (cubed into 1 to 1 1/2 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 red wine
• 1 bay leaf
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley

How to Make Classic German Goulash

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Place the oven rack in the center of the oven and preheat to 325°.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions

Add 2 tablespoons olive oil to a heavy pot or Dutch oven and heat over medium heat.
Add 1½ pounds onions and ½ teaspoon of kosher salt.
Cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the onions are very tender and golden.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Transfer the onions to a separate dish and set aside.
Season 2 pounds beef chuck roast with the remaining salt and ½ teaspoon black pepper.
Transfer to the Dutch Oven. Cook over medium-high heat for 5–10 minutes until browned.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the reserved onions along with:
½ green pepper,
½ tomato,
3 cloves garlic,
2 tablespoons sweet Hungarian paprika,
2 teaspoons dried marjoram,
1 teaspoon caraway seed,
2 tablespoons tomato paste,
2 cups beef broth,
½ cup dry red wine,
and 1 bay leaf.

Heat until boiling.

Step 5: Braise in the Oven

Place a lid on the pot so that it’s askew allowing steam to escape.
Transfer to the oven and cook for about 1½ hours or until the beef is tender.

Step 6: Serve Your Goulash

Remove from the oven, garnish with ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley, and serve with spaetzle, buttered noodles, or potatoes. Enjoy your delicious Classic German Goulash!

How to Serve Classic German Goulash

Classic German Goulash is a hearty dish that warms the soul. It pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and garnishes to enhance its robust flavors. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to enjoy this savory stew.

Over Noodles

• Egg Noodles: Serve the goulash over buttered egg noodles for a comforting meal.
• Spaetzle: These small German dumplings soak up the flavorful sauce perfectly.

With Potatoes

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a delightful base for the rich goulash.
• Steamed Potatoes: Keep it simple with steamed potatoes to balance the dish’s richness.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Parsley Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds color and freshness to each serving.
• Thyme Sprigs: For an aromatic touch, add a few sprigs of thyme.

Accompanied by Bread

• Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for sopping up the delicious sauce.
• Rye Bread: Traditional German rye bread complements the dish’s flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Classic German Goulash

Achieving the ideal Classic German Goulash requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use quality beef: Choose well-marbled beef chuck for tender results that melt in your mouth.
• Brown the meat well: Proper browning enhances flavor through caramelization; don’t rush this step!
• Season layers: Add salt and spices at different stages for a richer overall flavor profile.
• Control heat: Maintain a gentle simmer while braising; too much heat can toughen the meat.
• Let it rest: Allowing the goulash to rest before serving helps flavors meld together beautifully.
• Adjust consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add more beef broth or wine until desired texture is reached.

Best Side Dishes for Classic German Goulash

When enjoying Classic German Goulash, pairing it with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options to consider.

1. Cucumber Salad: This refreshing salad provides a crisp contrast to the rich goulash.
2. Red Cabbage Slaw: Sweet and tangy red cabbage adds brightness and crunch alongside the stew.
3. German Potato Salad: This warm potato salad, seasoned with vinegar and bacon, suits goulash well.
4. Sautéed Green Beans: Lightly sautéed green beans add a vibrant color and crunch to your plate.
5. Roasted Root Vegetables: Carrots, parsnips, and potatoes roasted until golden complement the stew’s depth.
6. Pickles or Sauerkraut: The acidity from pickled vegetables balances out the richness of the goulash.
7. Bierocks: These stuffed buns filled with beef and cabbage pair wonderfully as a handheld option.
8. Garlic Bread: Deliciously buttery garlic bread makes for great dipping into the savory sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Classic German Goulash can be easy, but there are common mistakes that can impact the flavor and texture of your dish.

• Skipping the browning step: Failing to properly brown the beef can lead to a less flavorful stew. Make sure to sear the meat until it’s golden brown for better taste.
• Using too much liquid: Adding too much broth or wine can dilute the flavors. Stick to the recommended amounts for a rich and hearty goulash.
• Not allowing enough time to braise: Rushing the cooking process can result in tough meat. Be patient and let it braise until tender for best results.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Each ingredient has its own flavor profile. Taste as you go and adjust salt and spices to ensure a balanced dish.
• Overcooking the vegetables: Cooking vegetables for too long can make them mushy. Add them at the right time to keep some texture in your goulash.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Let it cool completely before refrigerating to maintain texture.

Freezing Classic German Goulash

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as it may expand when frozen.

Reheating Classic German Goulash

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and reheat covered for about 30 minutes, adding a splash of broth if needed.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl, covered loosely, in 1-minute intervals until hot.
• Stovetop: Warm gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally, about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Classic German Goulash?

Classic German Goulash is a savory stew made with beef, onions, and spices like paprika and caraway seed. It’s hearty and flavorful, perfect for family dinners.

Can I use other meats instead of beef?

Yes, you can substitute pork or even chicken. Adjust cooking times accordingly as different meats have different tenderness levels.

What sides go well with Classic German Goulash?

Traditionally served with egg noodles, it also pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or spaetzle. A side salad adds freshness too!

How do I customize Classic German Goulash?

Feel free to add more vegetables like carrots or potatoes. Adjust spices according to your taste preferences for a unique twist.

Final Thoughts

Classic German Goulash is not only hearty but also versatile. You can easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or adjusting seasonings. It’s perfect for cozy family dinners, so give it a try and enjoy a taste of Germany at home!