German Goulash Soup

why make this recipe

German Goulash Soup, or Gulaschsuppe, is a hearty dish perfect for chilly days. It’s packed with rich flavors from tender beef, aromatic spices, and a good amount of vegetables. This soup is not only delicious but also filling, making it an ideal meal for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, allowing anyone to enjoy a warm bowl of classic comfort food.

how to make German Goulash Soup

Ingredients

• 3 pounds beef chuck (cut into 1-inch cubes)
• 2 teaspoons salt (divided)
• ¾ teaspoon black pepper (divided)
• ¼ cup olive oil
• 2 cups onions (chopped)
• 2-3 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
• 1 tablespoon sweet paprika
• 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
• 1 ½ cups red wine
• 4 cups beef broth
• ¼ cup tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon dried caraway seeds
• 2 teaspoons ground marjoram
• ½ teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• 3 tablespoons parsley (chopped)
• 2 medium carrots (peeled and cut into 1/2 inch pieces)
• Sour cream for serving

Directions

1. Season the Beef: Start by seasoning the beef cubes with 1 teaspoon of salt and ½ teaspoon of black pepper.
2. Sear the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and sear until browned on all sides. Remove the beef and set aside.
3. Cook the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onions and cook until they are soft and golden, about 5-7 minutes. Add the finely chopped garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
4. Add Spices and Flour: Stir in the sweet paprika and all-purpose flour, cooking for 1 minute to eliminate any raw flour taste.
5. Deglaze and Simmer: Pour in the red wine, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Let the wine reduce by half, about 5 minutes.
6. Combine Ingredients: Add the seared beef back to the pot. Stir in the beef broth, tomato paste, caraway seeds, ground marjoram, thyme, bay leaves, and the remaining salt and pepper.
7. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 1.5 hours.
8. Add Carrots and Parsley: After 1.5 hours, add the carrots and continue to simmer for another 30-40 minutes, or until the beef and carrots are tender.
9. Finish and Serve: Remove the bay leaves and stir in the chopped parsley. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
10. Serve: Ladle the goulash soup into bowls and top each with a dollop of sour cream. Serve hot with crusty bread on the side.

how to serve German Goulash Soup

Serve the goulash soup hot in bowls. A dollop of sour cream on top adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor. Pair it with crusty bread or rolls for a complete meal. This soup also reheats well, so feel free to make a big batch!

how to store German Goulash Soup

Store any leftover goulash soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

tips to make German Goulash Soup

• Use high-quality beef chuck for better flavor and tenderness.
• Allow the soup to simmer longer for richer flavors.
• Adjust the spices according to your taste preference; add more paprika for extra heat or flavor.
• You can replace the red wine with more beef broth if you prefer a non-alcoholic version.

variation

You can modify the soup by adding other vegetables like potatoes or bell peppers. Some recipes also include a bit of heat by adding chili powder or cayenne pepper for those who enjoy spicier dishes.

FAQs

1. Can I use another type of meat?
Yes, you can use pork or even chicken, but the cooking time might vary.

2. Is it gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, omit the all-purpose flour or use a gluten-free thickener.

3. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! After searing the beef and cooking the aromatics, you can transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

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