Beef Goulash with Spaetzle
Beef Goulash is a classic dish that warms the heart and fills the belly. This hearty stew, rich with flavors, is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends. Paired with homemade Spaetzle, it creates a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress!
Why make this recipe?
Making Beef Goulash with Spaetzle is a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting meal full of rich flavors and satisfying textures. The tender stewing beef simmers in a savory broth infused with paprika and spices, while the Spaetzle adds a delightful twist. Homemade Spaetzle is easy to prepare and turns your meal into a special feast. It’s a dish that can easily feed a crowd, making it ideal for parties or family celebrations. Plus, it’s a dish that can be made ahead of time, so you can enjoy quality time with your loved ones!
How to prepare Beef Goulash with Spaetzle
Ingredients
- 🥩 800 g (1.75 lb) stewing beef, cubed
- 🍳 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 🧅 2 onions, sliced
- 🧄 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 🍅 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 🌶️ 1 tbsp sweet paprika
- 🥣 500 ml (2 cups) beef broth
- 🌱 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional)
- 🧂 Salt & pepper to taste
- 🌾 1 tsp flour (for thickening, optional)
- 🍝 300 g (2.5 cups) flour (for Spaetzle)
- 🥚 3 eggs
- 🥛 120 ml (1/2 cup) milk or water
- 🧂 Salt (for Spaetzle)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until they are soft and golden, about 5 minutes. 🧅
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. 🧄
- Stir in the cubed beef and brown it on all sides. 🥩
- Once the beef is browned, stir in the tomato paste and sweet paprika. Mix well to coat the beef evenly. 🍅🌶️
- Pour in the beef broth and add the caraway seeds, if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 🥣🌱
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender. Stir occasionally and add water if the stew gets too thick. 🥘
- If desired, mix a teaspoon of flour with a little water to create a slurry. Stir it into the goulash towards the end of cooking to thicken it if you prefer.
- Meanwhile, prepare the Spaetzle. In a mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Make a well in the center and add the eggs and milk (or water). Stir until you have a smooth batter. 🍝🥚🥛
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Use a Spaetzle maker or a colander to drop small amounts of batter into the boiling water. Cook for 2-3 minutes until they float to the top. Remove with a slotted spoon and repeat with the remaining batter.
- Serve the goulash hot over the Spaetzle. Enjoy! 🍽️
How to serve Beef Goulash
Serve your Beef Goulash with Spaetzle on a warm plate. Consider garnishing with chopped fresh parsley for added color and flavor. A side of crusty bread also pairs nicely to soak up the delicious sauce!
How to store Beef Goulash
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the fridge overnight, then warm on the stovetop until heated through. When storing Spaetzle, keep it separate from the goulash to maintain its texture.
Tips for preparing Beef Goulash
- Use a good cut of stewing beef for the best flavor and tenderness.
- For extra depth, brown the meat in batches instead of overcrowding the pan.
- Don’t skip the paprika; it’s essential for authentic goulash flavor!
- If you like spices, experiment by adding a touch of cayenne pepper or a bay leaf for extra flavor.
Variations
You can customize your Beef Goulash by adding vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or potatoes for added nutrition. For a vegetarian version, substitute beef with mushrooms or lentils!
FAQs
1. Can I prepare Beef Goulash in advance?
Yes, Beef Goulash tastes even better the next day, so feel free to prepare it ahead of time. Just reheat it when ready to serve!
2. What’s the difference between Goulash and other stews?
Goulash is uniquely characterized by its use of paprika and is often thicker than other stews. The inclusion of Spaetzle also sets it apart!
3. Can I make Spaetzle gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the regular flour with a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend to create gluten-free Spaetzle. Just keep in mind that the texture might differ slightly.
Now you’re all set to enjoy a warm, delicious bowl of Beef Goulash with Spaetzle! Bon appétit! 🍲