Beef Rouladen

German Beef Rouladen

by

Unforgettable Beef Rouladen: A Comforting German Dish for Every Occasion!

When it comes to traditional German cuisine, few dishes are as beloved as Beef Rouladen. This hearty meal consists of thinly sliced beef rolled around a flavorful filling of bacon, pickles, and mustard, then braised to perfection in a rich gravy. Perfect for special occasions or cozy family dinners, Beef Rouladen is a true comfort food that embodies the warmth and richness of German cooking. In this blog post, we will explore the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for making this classic dish.

Why You’ll Love Beef Rouladen

  • Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of tender beef and savory filling creates a mouthwatering experience that is sure to please.
  • Perfect for Special Occasions: This dish is often served during holidays and celebrations, making it a great choice for gatherings.
  • Versatile Pairings: Beef Rouladen can be served with various sides, from traditional potato dumplings to red cabbage.

Essential Ingredients for Beef Rouladen

To prepare authentic German Beef Rouladen, gather the following ingredients:

  • 2 ½ pounds top round beef, sliced into 1/4-inch thick pieces
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 3 tablespoons German mustard
  • 8 slices bacon, cut into smaller pieces
  • 4 large dill pickles, sliced lengthwise
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 cup dry red wine
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon sugar

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beef

  1. Lay the beef slices out on a clean surface. Use a meat mallet to pound them gently until they are about 1/4 inch thick.
  2. Season each slice generously with salt and pepper.
  3. Spread a thin layer of German mustard over each slice of beef.

Step 2: Assemble the Rouladen

  1. Place a slice of bacon on each beef slice, followed by a few pickle slices and some chopped onion.
  2. Roll up each slice tightly from one end to the other, tucking in the sides as you go. Secure each roulade with toothpicks or kitchen twine.

Step 3: Brown the Rouladen

  1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, heat the butter and vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
  2. When the oil is hot, add the rouladen to the pot in small batches.Brown them evenly on all sides for about 5 minutes. Remove them from the pot and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Gravy

  1. In the same pot, add a bit more butter if necessary and sauté the remaining chopped onions until they are soft and translucent (about 5 minutes).
  2. Sprinkle in the flour and stir to combine, cooking for an additional minute.
  3. Add the red wine, using a spatula to scrape up any caramelized bits from the bottom of the pot.
  4. Add the beef broth, tomato paste, bay leaf, and sugar. Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Braise the Rouladen

  1. Return the browned rouladen to the pot, nestling them into the gravy so they are partially submerged.
  2. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then cover the pot with a lid.
  3. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 90 minutes to 2 hours until the meat is fork-tender.

Step 6: Serve

  1. Once cooked, remove the rouladen from the pot and let them rest for a few minutes before slicing.
  2. Strain the gravy if desired for a smoother texture, then return it to low heat to thicken slightly if needed.
  3. Serve the rouladen hot with plenty of gravy poured over them.

Serving Suggestions

Beef Rouladen pairs beautifully with:

  • Potato Dumplings (Knödel): These light and airy dumplings absorb the flavorful gravy beautifully.
  • Red Cabbage (Rotkohl): A traditional side that adds sweetness and color to your plate.
  • Spaetzle: Soft egg noodles that complement this hearty dish wonderfully.

Health Benefits of Beef Rouladen

Although this dish is rich and indulgent, it also provides several nutritional benefits:

  • High in Protein: The beef provides essential protein necessary for muscle repair and growth.
  • Rich in Iron: Beef is an excellent source of iron, which is vital for healthy blood circulation.

Tips for Perfecting Your Beef Rouladen

  • Choose Quality Meat: Opt for fresh top round beef from your butcher for optimal flavor and tenderness.
  • Customize Fillings: Feel free to experiment with different fillings like sautéed mushrooms or grated carrots for added flavor.
  • Slow Cooking: Allowing enough time for braising ensures that your rouladen becomes tender and flavorful.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this hearty German Beef Rouladen recipe is a delicious representation of traditional German cuisine that combines rich flavors with comforting textures.

Gather your ingredients today and enjoy this classic dish that will impress family and friends alike! Whether served at a festive gathering or as part of a cozy weeknight meal, Beef Rouladen is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.

Leave a Comment