Rindergulasch (German Beef Goulash)
A German version of beef goulash. Adapted from Lieblings-Rezepte and translated directly from the German.
A German version of beef goulash. Adapted from Lieblings-Rezepte and translated directly from the German.
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 lb onion diced
- 3 cloves fresh garlic peeled and finely chopped
- 1/4 lb thick bacon finely chopped
- 2 1/8 lbs beef shoulder, cut into bite-sized chunks as for
- 2 tablespoons butter or 2 tablespoons bacon grease or 2 t
- 2 teaspoons sweet hungarian paprika
- 5 1/8 cups beef broth
- 1 lemon zest of,finely grated
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 1 bunch fresh marjoram stemmed and finely chopped
- fresh cooked egg noodles or spaetzle noodles to serve over
- Carbohydrate 18.7421222114133 g
- Cholesterol 52.16312255 mg
- Fat 21.986982883435 g
- Fiber 2.28800619946234 g
- Protein 14.0292322824388 g
- Saturated Fat 9.67621917888984 g
- Serving Size 1 1 serving(s) (583g)
- Sodium 1743.51863109399 mg
- Sugar 16.4541160119509 g
- Trans Fat 1.94601058568032 g
- Calories 317 calories
Step-by-step
- In a large stewpot, heat the butter (or bacon grease or lard) until melted.
- Add the beef chunks in small portions and brown on all sides (but not cook all the way through yet); remove each batch as it browns to a covered dish and set aside for now.
- In the same pan, add the bacon, onion, and garlic and saute a few minutes until they begin to wilt and brown, maybe 5-10 minutes or so.
- Return the meat to the pan, and sprinkle with paprika.
- Whisk in the tomato paste until blended, stirring the whole time.
- Add just a little of the broth and bring to a boil, stirring.
- Repeat with a little more broth, after it boils, add the rest of the broth along with the lemon zest.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let stew about 80 minutes.
- In the last 5 minutes of cooking time, add the diced peppers and the marjoram.
- Test for flavor now- adding as much salt & pepper as you prefer.
- Serve ladled over bowls of hot, buttered egg noodles or spaetzle.
My German Beef Goulash Adventure
As a busy professional, finding time to cook satisfying and flavorful meals can be a real challenge. Weekends are often packed, and weeknights are a whirlwind of work, errands, and maybe squeezing in a workout. So, when I discovered this incredible German Beef Goulash recipe – Rindergulasch – while living in Germany, I knew I had to adapt it to fit my busy lifestyle. It’s a hearty, comforting dish that’s surprisingly easy to make and even easier to enjoy. This recipe, adapted from a beloved German cookbook, has become a staple in my meal rotation, perfect for a cozy night in or a satisfying meal prep session for the week.
The beauty of this goulash lies in its simplicity. The ingredients are readily available, and the cooking process is straightforward. The rich, savory flavors develop slowly over time as the beef simmers in the broth, infused with paprika, garlic, and onion. The addition of peppers and fresh marjoram adds a delightful layer of freshness, balancing the richness of the meat. The result is a deeply satisfying, melt-in-your-mouth experience that is far more impressive than its ease of preparation would suggest.
One of my favorite things about this dish is its versatility. I often adjust the ingredients based on what I have on hand. Sometimes I'll use a combination of beef broth and red wine for an extra layer of depth. Other times, I'll throw in some carrots or potatoes for added heartiness. The key is not to be afraid to experiment and find what works best for your palate. The basic recipe is a fantastic starting point, but it's also a blank canvas for your culinary creativity.
I usually prepare a large batch on the weekend and portion it out into meal-prep containers for the week. This way, I have a delicious and nutritious meal ready to go whenever I need it. Reheating it is simple, and it often tastes even better the next day, the flavors having had time to meld together even more completely. I often serve it over egg noodles, as suggested in the original recipe, but sometimes I’ll use quinoa or even cauliflower rice for a lighter option.
This goulash is more than just a meal; it's a taste of my time in Germany, a reminder of the warmth and hospitality I experienced there. It's a dish I share with friends and family, and it always elicits compliments. It's a testament to the power of simple ingredients combined with a little patience to create something truly extraordinary. The slow simmering allows the flavors to deepen and the beef to become incredibly tender, a true testament to the magic of slow cooking.
Beyond its deliciousness, this Rindergulasch is also incredibly adaptable. For those with dietary restrictions, the beef can easily be substituted with a hearty vegetarian alternative like mushrooms or seitan. The peppers can be altered to suit taste or availability, and the spices can be adjusted to create a milder or spicier flavor profile. In short, this recipe is as flexible as it is flavorful, making it a perfect choice for cooks of all skill levels.
The ease of preparation also makes it ideal for busy weeknights. Most of the chopping can be done ahead of time, and the long simmering process requires minimal attention once it's underway. This means you can enjoy the delicious aromas filling your kitchen while you attend to other tasks, whether it's finishing up some work, spending time with loved ones, or simply unwinding after a long day. It's a meal that practically cooks itself, leaving you with more time to focus on the things that matter most.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, I highly recommend trying this German Beef Goulash. It's a recipe that’s both rewarding to make and satisfying to eat. It’s a dish that truly embodies the spirit of comfort food – hearty, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with those you care about. So, gather your ingredients, put on some relaxing music, and prepare for a culinary adventure that will transport you to the heart of Germany, all from the comfort of your own kitchen.
And remember, don’t be afraid to experiment! Cooking should be fun, and this recipe provides the perfect opportunity to let your culinary creativity shine. So go ahead, adjust the spices, add your favorite vegetables, and make this dish your own. The possibilities are endless, and the results are always delicious.
