Rich Flavors of German Beef Rouladen

Discovering the Rich Flavors of German Beef Rouladen

Beef Rouladen is a beloved dish that truly embodies the heart of German cuisine. This traditional recipe features tender beef rolls filled with a savory mixture, making it a comforting choice for family gatherings or special occasions.

The Essence of Beef Rouladen

For many German families, Beef Rouladen is more than just a meal; it’s a cherished tradition that evokes memories of shared meals and cozy kitchens. The preparation is a labor of love, requiring patience and attention to detail. The key to this dish lies in its flavorful filling and the tender beef that envelops it.

Ingredients

• Beef: 4 slices of beef (about 1/4 inch thick; top round or flank steak)
• Seasoning: Salt and pepper, to taste
• Filling:
  • 4 slices of bacon
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 4 teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • 4 dill pickles, halved lengthwise
• Cooking:
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons cold water
• Garnish: Chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beef: Lay the beef slices flat on a cutting board and season with salt and pepper.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • Place a slice of bacon on each beef slice.
   • Sprinkle with chopped onions and spread 1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard on top.
   • Add half a pickle at one end of each slice.
3. Roll the Rouladen:
   • Starting at the end with the pickle, tightly roll up each slice. Secure with toothpicks if necessary.
4. Sear the Rouladen:
   • Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
   • Add the rouladen and sear on all sides until browned (about 2-3 minutes per side).
5. Add Liquid:
   • Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using), scraping up any browned bits from the skillet.
6. Simmer:
   • Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the rouladen simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender. Add more broth or water as needed.
7. Thicken the Sauce:
   • In a small bowl, mix flour and cold water to create a slurry.
   • Stir the slurry into the simmering liquid until the sauce thickens (about 1-2 minutes).
8. Serve:
   • Remove the rouladen from the skillet and discard toothpicks. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley, alongside mashed potatoes, spaetzle, or your favorite side dish.

A Culinary Masterpiece

Every bite of Beef Rouladen celebrates the rich flavors and comforting traditions of German cooking. It’s perfect for warming up chilly autumn evenings or for gathering loved ones around the table. Give it a try, and savor the heartiness of this timeless dish!