Austrian potato goulash with paprika, onions and frankfurt sausages — a hearty Viennese meatless weeknight dish.
Erdäpfelgulasch (potato goulash) is Vienna's economical answer to beef goulash — potatoes and sliced frankfurter sausages simmered in a paprika-rich onion sauce until the potatoes have partially broken down and thickened the broth. It is a beloved everyday Viennese dish, served in restaurants and homes alike, and is deeply comforting without being heavy. The marjoram and caraway give it its distinctly Austrian character.
Serves 4
Heat oil in a heavy pot. Cook onions over medium heat, stirring often, until deep golden — about 20 minutes. This is essential for a rich-tasting goulash.
Remove from heat. Add both paprikas and marjoram. Stir quickly off the heat to avoid burning.
Add tomato paste, caraway, potatoes and stock. Return to heat. Bring to a boil.
Cover and simmer 30 minutes until potatoes are soft and starting to break down, naturally thickening the broth.
Add frankfurter slices. Simmer 5 minutes. Add vinegar and season with salt. Serve with sour cream and bread.
The deeply caramelised onions are the foundation — don't shortcut this step.
Add paprika off the heat to prevent it burning and turning bitter.
Some potatoes should dissolve into the broth to thicken it naturally.
Omit sausages for a vegetarian version — use vegetable stock and a pinch of smoked paprika.
Add a bay leaf and a clove to the stew for extra complexity.
Refrigerate for 4 days. Improves the next day as flavours meld.
Erdäpfelgulasch is a classic Viennese Hausmannskost (home cooking) dish that became popular in the 19th century as an economical alternative to beef goulash. It remains a staple of Viennese budget restaurants (Beisln).
Floury varieties like King Edward or Maris Piper break down and thicken the sauce. Waxy potatoes hold their shape but give a thinner broth.
Per serving · 4 servings total
Ask our AI cooking assistant anything about this recipe — substitutions, techniques, scaling.
Chat with AI Chef →Join the conversation
Sign in to leave a comment and save your favourite recipes