Rouladen is a classic German dish made from thin slices of beef wrapped around a filling of bacon, onions, mustard, and pickles, then slow-cooked until tender in a rich gravy. This hearty and comforting meal is often served during festive occasions and is typically accompanied by mashed potatoes or dumplings to soak up the savory sauce. The combination of the tangy pickles, smoky bacon, and flavorful beef makes Rouladen a truly irresistible dish that beautifully represents traditional German home cooking.
Rouladen Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 large beef rouladen (thinly sliced beef, about 1/4 inch thick)
- 4 tbsp mustard (preferably Dijon)
- 4 slices of bacon
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 4 dill pickles, quartered lengthwise
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1/2 cup red wine (optional)
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (for thickening the sauce)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef: Lay out the beef rouladen on a clean surface. Spread a tablespoon of mustard on each slice. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add the Filling: Place a slice of bacon, a few slices of onion, and a pickle spear in the center of each beef slice. Roll the beef tightly around the filling and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
- Brown the Rouladen: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the rouladen and brown them on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the rouladen from the pot and set aside.
- Cook the Onions: In the same pot, add the remaining sliced onions and cook until softened and golden, about 5 minutes.
- Deglaze the Pot: Pour in the red wine (if using) and let it simmer for a few minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Add the beef broth and bring to a simmer.
- Simmer the Rouladen: Return the browned rouladen to the pot, cover, and let them simmer gently for about 1.5 to 2 hours, until the beef is tender.
- Make the Gravy: Once the rouladen are cooked, remove them from the pot. To thicken the gravy, whisk 2 tablespoons of flour with a bit of water to form a paste, then stir it into the sauce. Let it simmer for a few minutes until thickened. Season to taste.
- Serve: Serve the rouladen hot, topped with the rich gravy, alongside mashed potatoes, spaetzle, or dumplings. Garnish with fresh parsley.
Enjoy this comforting and flavorful Rouladen, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion!
