Introduction
There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of goulash, and this creamy German goulash takes that feeling to a whole new level. Picture tender beef simmered to perfection, enveloped in a rich and velvety sauce that’s infused with aromatic spices. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a cozy hug in a bowl that will warm you from the inside out. Perfect for chilly nights or any time you crave that feeling of home-cooked goodness!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 cup sour cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hours
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Directions and Instructions
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the beef cubes in batches, browning them on all sides. Once well-browned, remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes beautifully translucent and fragrant.
- Stir in the paprika, caraway seeds, thyme, salt, and pepper, allowing the spices to bloom and release their inviting aroma for about a minute.
- Return the browned beef back to the pot, along with the beef broth, tomato paste, and bay leaf.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover and reduce the heat to low. Let it cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is fork-tender and infused with flavor.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the sour cream and flour until smooth, creating a rich and creamy mixture.
- Once the beef is tender, remove the bay leaf from the pot. Stir in the sour cream mixture and cook over low heat for another 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, then serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Notes or Tips
- For a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the spice mixture.
- This dish pairs beautifully with hearty bread, noodles, or even creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days and taste even better the next day!
Cooking Techniques
Browning the beef is an essential step to develop deep flavor in your goulash. Don’t rush this process! Make sure the beef gets a nice sear. Also, simmering the dish slowly allows the meat to become tender and lets the flavors meld together beautifully.
FAQ
Can I use other cuts of beef? Absolutely! While beef chuck is ideal for its tenderness after long cooking, you can also try brisket or round. Just adjust the cooking time if the cut is leaner.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier? You can use low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt as a substitute and reduce the amount of oil used for browning.
Can I make this dish in a slow cooker? Yes! After browning the beef and onions, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in the sour cream mixture at the end, just like in the stovetop method.
Conclusion
This creamy German goulash is the ultimate comfort food that will warm your soul and fill your kitchen with mouth-watering aromas. With its delightful blend of spices and creamy richness, it’s sure to become a cherished favorite in your home. Gather around the table and savor each bite together – happy cooking!