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Delicious German beef goulash served with spaetzle and garnished with fresh parsley.

German Beef Goulash

A cozy and hearty German Beef Goulash perfect for cold nights, featuring tender beef, rich gravy, and plenty of onions.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: German
Calories: 420

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into bite-sized chunks Do not buy super lean stew meat.
  • 3 large onions, sliced or chopped They melt into the sauce.
  • 2 tablespoons oil or butter For browning the beef.
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste Adds color and rich taste.
  • 2 tablespoons sweet paprika
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika Optional, but recommended.
  • 2 to 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups beef broth More if needed.
  • 1 to 2 tablespoons flour for thickening Optional.
  • 1 tablespoon vinegar or a squeeze of lemon Important for flavor.
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • a pinch caraway seeds or marjoram Optional traditional flavor.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Pat the beef dry and season with salt and pepper.
  2. Heat oil in a heavy pot and brown the beef in batches. Do not crowd the pan.
  3. Once browned, move the beef to a plate. In the same pot, add the onions.
  4. Cook the onions on medium heat and stir often until soft and golden.
  5. Stir in the garlic, tomato paste, and paprika while keeping the heat low.
  6. Add the beef back in and pour in the broth.
  7. Bring to a gentle simmer, cover, and cook on low for about 1.5 to 2 hours.
  8. Taste the sauce, adjust salt and pepper, and add vinegar or lemon juice.
  9. If needed, whisk flour with a little cold water and stir into the pot, then simmer for an additional 5 to 10 minutes.

Notes

This dish tastes even better the next day. Great for meal prep. Store in the fridge and reheat gently with a splash of broth.