### Beef Rouladen: A Cozy German Favorite
Beef rouladen is a beloved dish that evokes warmth and fond memories for many families, particularly those with German roots. This recipe, handed down from Grandma Mary, showcases succulent beef rolls filled with savory bacon, onions, and dill pickles, slow-cooked to perfection. The outcome is a delectable experience that offers rich flavor from basic ingredients, enhanced by a wonderful gravy.
#### What is Rouladen?
German beef rouladen features thinly sliced beef coated with mustard, wrapped around bacon, onions, and a dill pickle, then slow-cooked until tender and served with brown gravy. This dish is a quintessential component of German culinary tradition and a favored comfort food for countless individuals.
#### Flavor Profile
Rouladen delivers a savory and hearty flavor while maintaining a light and refreshing quality. The slow cooking process tenderizes the beef and softens the onions, while the mustard and pickles impart a vibrant, zesty note.
#### Why Make It?
This traditional German recipe combines everyday, straightforward ingredients to create a symphony of enticing flavors. It is regarded as one of the ultimate comfort foods, typically prepared by families for special celebrations or cozy dinners together.
#### Serving Suggestions
Rouladen is customarily accompanied by mashed potatoes or cooked macaroni, just as Grandma Mary used to serve. It also pairs well with spätzle, egg noodles, potato dumplings, baby potatoes, or braised red cabbage (rotkohl) for a fulfilling meal.
### Choosing the Right Ingredients
1. **Beef Round or Flank Steak**: Choose thin slices of top round steak or flank steak, around 8 to 10 inches long, 4.5 inches wide, and ¼-inch thick. If not available, request “Rouladen” cuts from your butcher.
2. **Mustard**: Yellow mustard is commonly used, but Dijon mustard can be a great alternative for a sharper kick.
3. **Bacon**: Select uncooked bacon to infuse the beef with smoky essence and moisture.
4. **Pickle**: Dill pickles are ideal due to their acidity, which helps tenderize the meat and enhances taste. Set aside some pickle juice for the gravy.
5. **Gravy**: The gravy is prepared with beef broth and a dash of dill pickle juice. Optional ingredients might include canned mushrooms and extra onions for more complexity.
### How to Make Rouladen
1. **Prepare the Beef**: Lightly pound the beef to tenderize it.
2. **Assemble the Rolls**: Apply mustard on each slice, layer with bacon, onions, and a dill pickle, then roll and secure.
3. **Brown the Rolls**: In a Dutch oven, brown the rouladen on all sides.
4. **Braise**: Pour in beef broth and pickle juice, cover, and simmer until fork-tender.
5. **Make the Gravy**: Thicken the cooking liquid with flour or cornstarch to create a rich gravy.
### Tips for Success
– Employ a meat mallet for uniform cooking and easy rolling.
– Prevent overcrowding in the pot for optimal browning.
– Braise covered to keep tenderness intact and avoid quick sauce reduction.
– If the gravy becomes too thick, incorporate broth or water to achieve the desired consistency.
– Prepare in advance; flavors intensify overnight, and the rolls reheat beautifully.
### Got Leftovers?
Rouladen is scrumptious the following day and can be diced and added to soups. It can also be prepared and frozen, either before or after cooking. For freezing, lay them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze, then move to a freezer bag. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
### Conclusion
Beef rouladen is a delightful dish that encapsulates comfort and tradition. With its tender beef, savory fillings, and rich gravy, it’s a meal that unites families. Whether enjoyed during a special occasion or as a heartwarming weeknight dinner, this recipe is destined to become a cherished favorite in your household.