German Beef Rouladen is a classic comfort dish made with tender beef rolls filled with savory ingredients like bacon, onions, mustard, and pickles, all simmered to perfection in a rich gravy. It’s a hearty dish perfect for cold evenings or special occasions, guaranteed to bring authentic German flavors to your dinner table. Follow this recipe for a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress family and friends.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 4 large slices of beef top round (about 1/4-inch thick, 10-12 inches long)
- 4 tablespoons German mustard (spicy or Dijon)
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 4 dill pickles, quartered lengthwise
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beef Rolls
Lay the beef slices on a clean surface and gently pound them to an even thickness if needed. Season each slice with salt and black pepper. Spread 1 tablespoon of mustard over each piece of beef.
Step 2: Add the Fillings
Place a few pieces of sliced onion, chopped bacon, and a pickle spear on each slice of beef. Roll up each slice tightly and secure with kitchen twine or toothpicks to hold the roulades together.
Step 3: Sear the Beef Roulades
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the butter and olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef roulades and sear on all sides until browned, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the roulades and set them aside.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
In the same skillet, add any remaining sliced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 1-2 minutes. Pour in the red wine (if using) and beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Add the bay leaf.
Step 5: Simmer the Rouladen
Return the seared roulades to the skillet, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the liquid. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 60-90 minutes, or until the beef is tender.
Step 6: Finish the Sauce
Once the roulades are cooked through, remove them from the skillet and discard the bay leaf. To thicken the sauce, mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with a little water and stir it into the skillet. Let it simmer until the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
Step 7: Serve
Remove the twine or toothpicks from the roulades and serve them with the rich gravy spooned over the top.
Cook Notes
- Meat Choice: Top round or flank steak works best for this recipe, but you can also use bottom round if it’s easier to find.
- Cooking Liquid: Red wine adds depth to the sauce, but you can use extra beef broth instead if you prefer.
- Mustard: Traditional German mustard is recommended for authentic flavor, but Dijon works as well.
Variations
1. Mushroom Rouladen
Add sliced mushrooms to the sauce for extra flavor and texture. Sauté the mushrooms before adding the liquid to create a richer sauce.
2. Spicy Rouladen
Add a small amount of spicy mustard or hot pepper flakes to the filling for a kick of heat.
3. Bacon-Wrapped Rouladen
Instead of placing the bacon inside the roulade, wrap it around the beef rolls for an added crispy, smoky exterior.
Serving Suggestions
- Potato Dumplings: Serve with traditional German potato dumplings (Kartoffelklöße) for a classic pairing.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes also pair wonderfully with the rich gravy from the rouladen.
- Braised Red Cabbage: A side of braised red cabbage (Rotkohl) adds a tangy, slightly sweet contrast to the savory rouladen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the beef roulades up to the point of searing, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. The sauce can also be made ahead and reheated when ready to serve.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover rouladen in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through.
Can I Freeze Beef Rouladen?
Yes, you can freeze cooked beef rouladen. Let them cool completely, then wrap tightly and store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
This German Beef Rouladen recipe is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings classic German cuisine to your kitchen. With tender beef, a savory filling, and a rich gravy, it’s a perfect dish for special occasions or a cozy family meal. Serve it with traditional sides, and enjoy a taste of Germany at home. Try it out, and let us know how it turned out for you!
Did you make this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and tell us your favorite side dish to serve with beef rouladen!
