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German Goulash

Hearty German Goulash: Comfort in Every Bite

This German Goulash is a hearty one-pot beef stew filled with tender meat, paprika, and nutrition, perfect for cozy dinners.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Beef
Cuisine: German
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

For the Stew
  • 2 medium Onions Adds sweetness and depth of flavor; substitute with shallots for milder taste.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil Used for sautéing the onions; can replace with butter for a richer flavor.
  • 2 pounds Beef Chuck Roast Provides hearty protein; stew beef is an acceptable alternative.
  • 1 medium Green Pepper Adds additional flavor and texture; swap with bell pepper of any color.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Adds aromatic richness; use garlic powder as a substitute in a pinch.
  • 2 medium Tomato Contributes acidity for balance; canned tomatoes can be used if fresh is unavailable.
  • 1 teaspoon Kosher Salt Enhances overall taste; adjust to preference, sea salt is a good alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper Enhances overall taste; adjust to preference, sea salt is a good alternative.
  • 2 tablespoons Sweet Hungarian Paprika Provides the characteristic flavor; substitute with smoked paprika for a different profile.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Marjoram Offers herbal notes; Italian seasoning can be used as an alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Caraway Seed Delivers a distinct aroma and flavor; fennel seeds can be a substitute.
  • 2 tablespoons Tomato Paste Intensifies the tomato flavor; use tomato sauce if necessary, adjusting other liquid quantities.
  • 4 cups Beef Broth or Bouillon Adds moisture and flavor to the stew; low-sodium options recommended.
  • 1 cup Dry Red Wine Enhances depth of flavor; can be replaced with beef broth or vinegar for non-alcoholic version.
  • 1 leaf Bay Leaf Infuses flavor during cooking; optional for those sensitive to herbal notes.
For Garnish
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Parsley Used for garnish to brighten the dish; basil or chives can be alternative garnishes.

Equipment

  • Dutch oven
  • slow cooker
  • Instant Pot

Method
 

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for German Goulash
  1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C). In a Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and a pinch of kosher salt, sautéing for 15 to 20 minutes until golden brown.
  2. Add beef chuck roast to the pot, brown the chunks for about 5 to 10 minutes, turning occasionally until all sides are nicely seared.
  3. Stir in minced garlic, chopped green pepper, and diced tomato, followed by sweet Hungarian paprika, dried marjoram, and caraway seeds. Add tomato paste, beef broth, and dry red wine to deglaze the pot.
  4. Once boiling, reduce heat if necessary, cover the pot, and transfer it to the preheated oven. Allow to braise for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.
  5. After braising, remove the pot from the oven and discard the bay leaf if used. Stir in fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor, and serve hot.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 30gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 8gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 7gCholesterol: 90mgSodium: 900mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 20mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 4mg

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge, or freeze for up to 3 months.

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