German Goulash Soup
This rich and hearty German Goulash Soup, known as Gulaschsuppe, features tender chunks of beef and onions simmered in a deeply flavorful paprika-spiced broth. It's the ultimate comfort food for a chilly evening, perfect served with a dollop of sour cream.
For 4 servings
8 steps. 150 minutes total.
- 1
Pat the beef cubes completely dry with paper towels
- a.Season generously with 1 teaspoon of salt and 0.5 teaspoon of black pepper.
- 2
Step 2
- a.In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Working in two or three batches to avoid overcrowding, sear the beef on all sides until a deep brown crust forms, about 5-7 minutes per batch. Transfer the seared beef to a plate and set aside.
- 3
Reduce the heat to medium
- a.Add the chopped onions to the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes until the onions are very soft, translucent, and lightly golden. Add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Stir in the tomato paste, sweet paprika, hot paprika, caraway seeds, and dried marjoram. Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to toast the spices and deepen the flavor of the tomato paste.
- 5
Return the seared beef and any accumulated juices to the pot
- a.Pour in the beef broth, stirring to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a low simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 90 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- 6
Add the diced potatoes and chopped red bell pepper to the soup
- a.Stir well, return to a simmer, and cover the pot again. Continue to cook for another 30-40 minutes, or until the beef is fork-tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
- 7
Remove the pot from the heat
- a.Stir in the apple cider vinegar to brighten the flavors. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with the remaining 0.5 teaspoon of salt, or more as needed.
- 8
Ladle the hot goulash soup into bowls
- a.Garnish each serving with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley before serving.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most tender beef, choose a cut with good marbling like chuck roast or beef shoulder.
- 2Don't rush the searing process. A deep brown crust on the beef is crucial for developing the soup's rich, deep flavor.
- 3Use high-quality, fresh paprika. Since it's the star ingredient, its quality will significantly impact the final taste.
- 4The soup's flavor deepens and improves overnight, making it an excellent make-ahead meal.
- 5For a thicker consistency, you can mash a few of the cooked potato cubes against the side of the pot with a spoon to release their starch.
- 6Serve with crusty rye bread, German egg noodles (spaetzle), or potato dumplings to soak up the delicious broth.
Adapt it for your goals.
Meat
Substitute the beef with pork shoulder or venison for a different flavor profile. Adjust simmering time as needed until the meat is tender.
VegetablesVegetables
Add other root vegetables like carrots or parsnips along with the potatoes for extra sweetness and nutrients.
Spice LevelSpice Level
For a spicier soup, increase the amount of hot paprika or add a pinch of cayenne pepper along with the other spices.
GarnishGarnish
Instead of parsley, try garnishing with fresh dill or chives for a different herbaceous note.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Protein
Beef is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle mass, and maintaining overall body function.
Source of Antioxidants
Paprika and red bell peppers are rich in antioxidants, including Vitamin C and carotenoids. These compounds help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Provides Essential Minerals
This soup is a good source of iron and zinc from the beef, which are vital for immune function and energy production. Potatoes add potassium, important for blood pressure regulation.
Frequently asked questions
A typical serving of this German Goulash Soup (about 1.5 cups) contains approximately 550-650 calories, depending on the fat content of the beef and the specific ingredients used.