Oma's Traditional Goulash Soup (Gulaschsuppe)

This German goulash soup (gulaschsuppe) reminds me of my Mutti’s … rich, hearty, and perfect for family dinners or special occasions.

Prep Time:

10 minutes

Cook Time:

1 hour 5 minutes

Total Time:

1 hour 15 minutes

Servings:

4-6 servings

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (454 g) stewing beef, cut into ¾-inch cubes
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
  • 2 large onions, coarsely diced
  • 1 garlic clove, crushed
  • 1½ cups (375 ml) tomato juice
  • 1 cup (240 ml) beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon (5 g) salt
  • 1 tablespoon (8 g) sweet Hungarian paprika
  • 2 - 3 large potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 3 large bell peppers, preferably different colors, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • salt and pepper, to taste
  • hot Hungarian paprika (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Heat the oil over medium-high heat in a large pot or dutch oven. Brown half the meat. Remove meat and brown remaining meat. Return all the meat to the pot, adding onions and garlic.
  2. Continue to cook on high for several minutes, stirring often.
  3. Add tomato juice, beef broth, salt, and paprika.
  4. Bring to boil, cover, and reduce heat to a simmer. Cook for about 40 minutes.
  5. Add potatoes and peppers. Cook for a further 15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
  6. Season with additional salt, pepper, and hot paprika, if desired.

Notes/Hints:

  • Cut meat, onions, peppers, and potatoes into rough ¾-inch to 1-inch cubes
  • Skip the potatoes and serve with bread, or try Bavarian-style with mini bread dumplings
  • Stir in ¼ cup cream at the end for a rich, authentic touch; a pinch of sugar brings out the flavor
  • Add a can of drained kidney or pinto beans (any color) 5 minutes before serving
  • Use all beef or half beef, half pork
  • Store leftovers in the fridge in an airtight container

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Unless otherwise noted recipe, images and content © Just like Oma | www.quick-german-recipes.com

Recipe updated May 14, 2025

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