Classic Beef Rouladen

Name: Classic Beef Rouladen
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 90 min
Total time: 120 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: German
Ingredients: 4 slices beef top round (thinly sliced); 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard; 4 slices bacon (chopped); 1 onion (finely chopped); 4 dill pickles (quartered lengthwise); to taste salt and pepper; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 2 cups beef broth; 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon sugar

120 min 4 servings Medium

All Recipes

Savoury beef rouladen with a rich gravy, perfect for a comforting meal.

Prep

30 min

Cook

90 min

Total

120 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Beef rouladen is a classic German dish that features thinly sliced beef wrapped around a filling of bacon, onions, and pickles, all simmered to perfection in a rich gravy. This dish is ideal for those who love a hearty and comforting meal, bringing a touch of European flair to your dinner table. Our version of Beef Rouladen is a testament to the beauty of slow-cooked meals. The meat becomes wonderfully tender, while the flavours meld together to create a dish that is both satisfying and delicious. Whether you're familiar with this dish or trying it for the first time, you're in for a treat.

Instructions

Prepare the beef

Lay the beef slices flat and spread each with 1/2 tablespoon of Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper.

Pro tip: Ensure the beef slices are thin for the best results.

Add the filling

Place a slice of bacon, a portion of chopped onion, and a pickle spear on each beef slice. Roll tightly and secure with toothpicks.

Pro tip: Use kitchen twine for extra security if needed.

Brown the rouladen

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the rouladen on all sides, about 8 minutes total.

Pro tip: Browning adds depth to the dish, so don't skip this step.

Prepare the gravy

Remove rouladen from the skillet. Add flour to the skillet and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in beef broth and sugar, stirring until thickened.

Pro tip: Ensure there are no lumps in the gravy.

Simmer the rouladen

Return the rouladen to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5 hours until the beef is tender.

Pro tip: Check occasionally to ensure the gravy doesn't reduce too much.

Serve

Remove toothpicks or twine before serving. Slice rouladen if desired and serve with gravy.

Pro tip: Garnish with fresh parsley for a touch of colour.

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Tips & Tricks

Ensure the beef slices are thinly sliced for easy rolling.
Use a good quality mustard for a robust flavour.
Secure the rouladen with toothpicks or kitchen twine to prevent unrolling.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is beef rouladen?

Beef rouladen is a traditional German dish made of thinly sliced beef rolled around a filling of bacon, onions, and pickles, then cooked in a rich gravy.

How many calories are in beef rouladen?

A serving of beef rouladen contains approximately 450 calories.

How do you keep rouladen from falling apart?

Secure the rouladen with toothpicks or kitchen twine to prevent them from unrolling during cooking.

Can I make beef rouladen ahead of time?

Yes, beef rouladen can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

What should I serve with beef rouladen?

Beef rouladen pairs well with mashed potatoes, spaetzle, red cabbage, or a fresh green salad.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Beef Rouladen with mashed potatoes or spaetzle to soak up the delicious gravy. A side of red cabbage or a fresh green salad complements the meal perfectly. This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat gently on the stove before serving. The flavours develop even more over time, making leftovers even more delectable.