German Goulash Soup Recipe

When it comes to hearty, soul-satisfying meals, few dishes compare to the comforting embrace of a steaming bowl of German Goulash Soup. This dish, deeply rooted in Central European cuisine, has been a staple in German homes for centuries, and it continues to warm hearts and fill bellies with its rich, robust flavors. The beauty of German Goulash Soup lies in its simplicity and versatility, making it the perfect choice for a cozy evening or a hearty meal for a family gathering.

With a perfect balance of tender beef, paprika, and aromatic vegetables, German Goulash Soup is more than just a dish – it’s a nostalgic journey through the flavors of Eastern Europe. While goulash has various iterations across different countries, the German version is distinct for its slightly thicker consistency and its subtle yet flavorful complexity.

Now, let’s dive into how to create this deliciously comforting soup from scratch, bringing the spirit of Germany right to your kitchen.

German Goulash Soup Recipe

German Goulash Soup isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience that brings together rich, deep flavors in every spoonful. Here’s an easy-to-follow recipe that will have you cooking up this delicious dish in no time.

Ingredients Needed

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for sautéing)
• 1 ½ pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes (you can substitute with pork if you prefer)
• 2 medium onions, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons sweet paprika (this is the key to that signature flavor)
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional, but highly recommended for that authentic German touch)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 ½ cups beef broth (or more if you prefer a thinner consistency)
• 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon white vinegar (this adds a little zing to balance the richness)
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat the oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the beef cubes in batches (so they don’t overcrowd) and brown them on all sides. This step adds flavor, so don’t rush it!
2. Sauté onions and garlic: Once the beef is browned and set aside, add the chopped onions to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onions become soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Spices come to life: Sprinkle in the paprika, caraway seeds (if using), thyme, and bay leaf. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices. The paprika will begin to release its beautiful red color, and the aroma will fill your kitchen.
4. Add liquids and vegetables: Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes, then stir in the potatoes and carrots. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 45-60 minutes. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.
5. Final touches: Check for seasoning. Add salt and black pepper to taste. Just before serving, stir in the vinegar. This will brighten the dish, cutting through the richness of the beef and paprika.
6. Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with hearty bread or a dollop of sour cream if you like!

Ingredient Insights

• Beef Chuck: This is the cut most commonly used in goulash due to its tenderness when slow-cooked. It becomes melt-in-your-mouth soft as it simmers in the broth, absorbing all the delicious flavors of the spices.
• Paprika: The foundation of this dish, sweet paprika brings warmth, color, and an earthy depth. It’s essential to use sweet paprika rather than hot paprika, as this ensures the soup has that signature comforting flavor without too much heat.
• Caraway Seeds: A quintessential ingredient in German cooking, caraway seeds have a slight aniseed flavor that complements the paprika perfectly. They also bring a bit of a woody, aromatic note to the dish.
• Vinegar: The vinegar is a secret ingredient that adds a subtle acidity, cutting through the richness of the beef and paprika. It provides balance, making each bite more nuanced and refreshing.
• Potatoes and Carrots: These vegetables not only contribute texture to the soup but also absorb the flavorful broth, making each bite satisfying and hearty.

Expert Tips

• Browning the Meat: Don’t rush the browning process. Taking the time to sear the beef adds a deep, caramelized flavor that significantly enhances the taste of the entire soup.
• Simmering Time: For maximum flavor, let the soup simmer for at least an hour. If you have more time, letting it cook even longer will help the flavors develop even further.
• Adjusting Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, mash a few of the potatoes in the pot after cooking. This will help thicken the broth without losing the potato flavor.
• Use a Dutch Oven: A Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot is ideal for this recipe because it distributes heat evenly and retains it, which helps the soup cook slowly and develop that rich flavor.
• Resting the Soup: If you have the time, let the soup sit for a few hours after cooking. Like many stews and soups, goulash often tastes even better the next day when the flavors have had time to meld.

Recipe Variations

• Pork Goulash: For a slightly different take, use pork shoulder or tenderloin instead of beef. The pork will be just as tender and add a slightly different flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the meat entirely and load up the soup with more root vegetables like parsnips, turnips, and sweet potatoes. You can also add beans for protein and texture.
• Spicy Goulash: If you like heat, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or use hot paprika instead of sweet paprika. You can also toss in a finely chopped jalapeño or chili pepper for an extra kick.
• Smoked Paprika: For a smoky flavor, consider swapping out regular paprika for smoked paprika. It will give the soup a subtle smokiness that pairs well with the richness of the beef.

Final Words

German Goulash Soup is a dish that transcends seasons, offering warmth in the winter and a deep, comforting satisfaction at any time of year. Its simplicity in ingredients belies the complexity of flavor that develops through slow cooking. Whether you’re cooking it for a family dinner, a special occasion, or simply to satisfy your own cravings, this soup never disappoints.