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Oma's Traditional Goulash Soup (Gulaschsuppe)

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

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
• 1 pound (454 grams) stewing beef, cut into ¾-inch cubes
• 2 large onions, coarsely diced
• 1 garlic clove, crushed
• 1½ cups (360 milliliters) tomato juice
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) beef broth
• 1 teaspoon (6 grams) salt
• 1 tablespoons (7 grams) sweet Hungarian paprika
• 2 - 3 potatoes, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 3 bell peppers, preferably different colors, cut into 1-inch pieces
• salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• hot Hungarian paprika (optional)

Instructions:

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

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

Updated: January 26, 2026