Traditional German Goulash Soup

This Traditional German Goulash Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings. With tender chunks of beef, a rich and savory broth, and a blend of aromatic spices, this comforting soup is a must-try!

Why You’ll Love This German Goulash Soup:

Hearty and Filling – Packed with tender beef, vegetables, and rich broth, it’s a meal in itself.

Perfect for Cold Days – This soup is warm, comforting, and great for cozy evenings.

Flavorful – The combination of paprika, caraway seeds, and other spices give it a deep, satisfying flavor.

Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this a go-to soup.

Ingredients for Traditional German Goulash Soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 lb beef stew meat (cut into small cubes)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons paprika (preferably sweet Hungarian paprika)
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter option)
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (optional, for added depth)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Traditional German Goulash Soup:

Step 1: Brown the Beef

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef stew meat in batches, making sure to brown the meat on all sides. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Once browned, remove the beef from the pot and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

3. In the same pot, add the onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
4. Add the garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Stir in the paprika, caraway seeds, and dried thyme. Cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the spices to release their flavor.

Step 3: Build the Soup

6. Add the browned beef back into the pot along with the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth.
7. Stir to combine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
8. Add the potatoes, carrots, red bell pepper, and bay leaf to the pot.
9. Season with salt and black pepper. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

Step 4: Add the Finishing Touches

10. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you want a bit more acidity, stir in the red wine vinegar.
11. Remove the bay leaf from the soup before serving.

Step 5: Serve

12. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
13. Serve with crusty bread or rye bread on the side for dipping.

Serving Suggestions:

• Pair with sour cream on top for a creamy contrast.
• Enjoy with some German mustard on the side for an extra punch of flavor.
• A side of pickled cucumbers or a green salad complements the soup well.

Tips for the Best German Goulash Soup:

• Let it simmer: The longer this soup simmers, the more the flavors meld together, so don’t rush the cooking time.
• Paprika: Use high-quality Hungarian sweet paprika for authentic flavor, or mix it with a bit of smoked paprika for extra depth.
• Adjust for spice: If you like a bit of heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.
• Store leftovers: Goulash soup often tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop further. Keep leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigerate: Store leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Freeze: You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Can I use a different cut of beef? A: Yes, you can use other cuts of beef like chuck roast or brisket, but be sure to cut them into small cubes and cook them low and slow for tenderness.

Q2: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? A: Absolutely! Brown the beef and sauté the veggies, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the beef is tender.

Q3: Can I make it vegetarian? A: Yes, use vegetable broth, skip the beef, and add extra veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or green beans for a hearty, vegetarian version.

Conclusion:

This Traditional German Goulash Soup is a classic, hearty, and flavorful dish that will warm you up from the inside out. Whether served as a family meal or enjoyed as a comforting solo dinner, it’s bound to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Enjoy!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Cuisine: German

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