There’s something magical about a steaming bowl of creamy German goulash. Picture this: tender chunks of beef swimming in a rich, velvety sauce, seasoned with smoky paprika and aromatic spices that waft through the air like an invitation to indulge. Each spoonful is a delightful dance of flavors that warms your soul on a chilly evening.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>How to Make Creamy German Goulash</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What is the best cut of meat for creamy German goulash?
- Can I make creamy German goulash in advance?
- What can I serve with creamy German goulash?
- 📖 Recipe Card
This dish is more than just food; it’s a comforting hug on a plate. Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in, creamy German goulash has the power to turn any meal into an unforgettable occasion. Just think of the laughter, the stories shared, and the satisfied faces around the dinner table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This creamy German goulash is incredibly easy to prepare, making weeknight dinners a breeze
- The flavor profile is rich and hearty, perfect for satisfying even the hungriest appetites
- Its beautiful presentation makes it visually stunning on any table setting
- Versatile enough for family meals or special gatherings, it’s bound to impress everyone!
I remember the first time I made creamy German goulash. My friends gathered for what was supposed to be a simple dinner party, but they left raving about my cooking skills—little did they know it was all thanks to this one pot wonder!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Beef Chuck Roast: Choose well-marbled pieces for optimal tenderness and flavor during cooking.
Onions: Use sweet onions for a milder taste that balances perfectly with savory elements.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves elevate the dish’s aroma and depth; don’t skimp on this one!
Smoked Paprika: This adds a fantastic depth of flavor and aroma; it’s like magic in powder form.
Beef Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control the saltiness while enhancing richness.
Sour Cream: Adds creaminess and tang; always go for full-fat for the best texture.
Carrots: These add sweetness and color; they become tender and flavorful when cooked slowly.
Bay Leaves: A couple of these will infuse your goulash with herbal goodness as it simmers.
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all your flavors together; season generously!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Creamy German Goulash
Start by prepping your ingredients: Gather everything you need so you’re ready to cook without interruptions. Trust me, nobody wants to be running around looking for spices when your goulash is bubbling away.
Sear the Beef: Heat some oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add cubed beef chuck roast until browned on all sides—about 5-7 minutes—creating that lovely caramelization.
Add Onions and Garlic: Toss in chopped onions and minced garlic next. Sauté until onions are translucent and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes—releasing those amazing aromas that will make you hungry.
Add Carrots and Spices: Stir in sliced carrots along with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing those vibrant colors and flavors to meld beautifully.
Pour in Broth: Now it’s time to add your beef broth along with bay leaves. Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low—a simmering pot means rich flavors are developing!
Add Sour Cream: After about an hour of simmering, remove bay leaves and stir in sour cream until fully incorporated—this creates that creamy goodness we’re after!
Enjoy serving this warm bowlful of comfort with crusty bread or over egg noodles. You’ll find that every bite transports you straight into culinary bliss!
You Must Know
- Creamy German Goulash is perfect for cozy nights
- This dish pairs well with crusty bread or buttered noodles, making it a comforting meal
- The rich flavors and hearty texture will warm you from the inside out, ensuring you return for seconds!
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing your meat until golden brown, then soften onions and garlic before adding spices and liquids. This order builds flavor depth while keeping your goulash tender.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap beef for pork or add veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms. Experiment with different stocks or add a splash of red wine to elevate the flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed for moisture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For perfectly tender meat, let it marinate overnight in the refrigerator
- Always taste your sauce before serving; adjust seasoning as needed
- Pair with a fresh salad to lighten up this hearty dish!
There was that one chilly evening when my friends gathered around, and I whipped up this creamy German goulash. Their delighted faces after the first bite made all my kitchen efforts worth it!
FAQ
What is the best cut of meat for creamy German goulash?
Use chuck roast or braising cuts for tender, flavorful results after slow cooking.
Can I make creamy German goulash in advance?
Absolutely! It tastes even better the next day when flavors meld together.
What can I serve with creamy German goulash?
Serve with egg noodles, spaetzle, or crusty bread to soak up that delicious sauce!
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📖 Recipe Card
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Creamy German Goulash
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Creamy German goulash is a comforting dish that combines tender chunks of beef in a rich, velvety sauce infused with smoky paprika and aromatic spices. Perfect for gatherings or cozy nights, this one-pot wonder is easy to prepare and sure to impress. With its delightful blend of flavors, each spoonful brings warmth and satisfaction, making it an unforgettable addition to your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck roast, cubed
- 2 medium sweet onions, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp smoked paprika
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream (full-fat)
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add cubed beef and sear until browned on all sides (5-7 minutes).
- Add onions and garlic; sauté until onions are translucent (3-4 minutes).
- Stir in sliced carrots, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for another 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the beef broth and add bay leaves. Bring to a gentle boil before reducing heat to low; simmer for about 1 hour.
- Remove bay leaves and stir in sour cream until fully combined.
- Serve warm with crusty bread or egg noodles for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 75 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 14g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
