Imagine coming home to the comforting aroma of a hearty stew simmering on the stovetop. Today, we have a special recipe for Pflaumen Gulasch that will transport your taste buds to a cozy European kitchen. This German-inspired dish combines the richness of a traditional goulash with the subtle sweetness of plums. Perfect for a cold winter evening or to impress guests at a dinner party, this Pflaumen Gulasch is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection.
**Ingredients:**
– 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into cubes
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp tomato paste
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp caraway seeds
– 4-5 plums, pitted and sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish
**Instructions:**
1. In a Dutch oven or large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes in batches and brown them on all sides. This will help seal in the flavorful juices. Once browned, remove the beef and set it aside.
2. In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for a couple of minutes to enhance its flavor.
4. Deglaze the pot by pouring in the beef broth and red wine. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
5. Return the browned beef cubes to the pot. Add the diced tomatoes, paprika, and caraway seeds. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it gently simmer for about 2 hours, stirring occasionally. This slow cooking process will tenderize the beef and allow the flavors to meld together.
7. After 2 hours, add the sliced plums to the pot. Let the stew continue to simmer for an additional 30 minutes, or until the plums are soft and the beef is tender.
8. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If the sauce is too thin, you can simmer it uncovered for a bit longer to thicken it up.
9. Serve the Pflaumen Gulasch hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley. This dish pairs beautifully with a side of buttered noodles or crusty bread to soak up the savory sauce.
Enjoy this delightful blend of savory and sweet flavors with your loved ones, and let the warmth of this Pflaumen Gulasch fill your home with joy and comfort. Dive into a bowl of this flavorful stew and savor each bite of tender beef and succulent plums. This recipe is a wonderful way to add a touch of European flair to your table, making any mealtime a special occasion.
