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Authentic Rahmgulasch

Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 40 minutes
Total Time 2 hours
Course Main Course
Servings 4 Servings

Equipment

  • Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
  • Sharp chef’s knife
  • Cutting board
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Mixing bowl

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds beef chuck cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil or butter
  • 2 onions finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • 2 tbsp sweet paprika
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp caraway seeds optional
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup sour cream or heavy cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp flour for thickening
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Sear the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches and brown them on all sides. Remove and set aside.
  • Sauté Vegetables: In the same pot, add onions and cook until soft and golden. Stir in garlic and bell pepper and cook for another minute.
  • Add Spices: Stir in paprika, tomato paste, and caraway seeds. Cook briefly to release the flavors.
  • Deglaze and Simmer: Return the beef to the pot, pour in the broth, and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 1.5 hours or until the beef is tender.
  • Thicken and Cream: In a small bowl, mix flour with a little water to make a paste. Stir into the pot to thicken the sauce. Lower the heat and stir in sour cream or heavy cream until smooth and velvety. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Serve Hot: Garnish with chopped parsley and serve warm with noodles or potatoes.

Notes

Tips for Perfect Rahmgulasch

  • Use good-quality beef chuck for the best flavor and tenderness.
  • Don’t rush the simmering time. The longer it cooks, the richer the flavor.
  • Add the cream at the very end to prevent curdling.
  • A splash of white wine while deglazing adds a subtle depth to the sauce.
  • For extra creaminess, mix equal parts sour cream and heavy cream.

Variations and Substitutions

  • Pork Rahmgulasch: Swap beef for pork shoulder for a slightly sweeter taste.
  • Mushroom Rahmgulasch: Add sliced mushrooms for an earthy twist or make it vegetarian.
  • Spicy Version: Use hot paprika or add a pinch of cayenne.
  • Dairy-Free: Replace cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a non-dairy alternative.
Keyword comfort food, Creamy, Slow Cooker,