Braised Beef Rouladen with Red Cabbage and Dumplings
Highlighted under: Family Comfort Recipes
Braised Beef Rouladen with Red Cabbage and Dumplings is a hearty and traditional German dish that combines tender beef rolled with flavorsome fillings, served alongside sweet and tangy red cabbage and fluffy dumplings.
This traditional German dish is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions. The rouladen, filled with bacon, onions, and mustard, is slow-cooked to perfection, while the sweet red cabbage and hearty dumplings complement the meal beautifully.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Succulent beef that melts in your mouth
- A perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors
- An impressive dish that's surprisingly easy to make
The Tradition Behind Rouladen
Rouladen is a classic German dish that has been enjoyed for generations. Traditionally, it is made with thinly sliced beef rolled around savory fillings, often including bacon, onions, and mustard. This dish is a staple in many German households, especially during festive occasions and family gatherings. The art of making rouladen lies not only in the preparation but also in the love and care that goes into braising the beef to perfection, making it a cherished recipe that brings family and friends together.
Historically, rouladen was a way to stretch meat further by rolling it with inexpensive ingredients, making it both economical and satisfying. The dish has evolved over time, but its core remains the same, celebrating the rich culinary heritage of Germany. Whether served with a side of red cabbage or dumplings, rouladen is a meal that fills the heart and warms the soul, embodying the essence of comfort food.
Perfect Pairings
Braised Beef Rouladen is often served with red cabbage and dumplings, which complement the flavors of the dish beautifully. The sweet and tangy notes of the red cabbage provide a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory beef, while the fluffy dumplings serve as the perfect vehicle for soaking up the delicious gravy. This combination not only satisfies the palate but also creates a visually stunning plate that is sure to impress any guest.
For a complete meal, consider pairing your rouladen with a glass of German red wine, such as a Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir). The wine's fruity notes and balanced acidity enhance the flavors of the dish, making each bite even more enjoyable. Additionally, a side of crusty bread can be a delightful addition, perfect for mopping up the remaining gravy on your plate.
Tips for Success
Ingredients
For the Rouladen
- 4 beef rouladen (thinly sliced beef)
- 4 slices of bacon
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Red Cabbage
- 1 small head of red cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 apple, peeled and grated
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dumplings
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup milk
Instructions
Prepare the Rouladen
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Season the beef rouladen with salt and pepper. Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on each slice.
Sear the Rouladen
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the rouladen and sear until browned on all sides. Remove from skillet and set aside.
Braise the Rouladen
In the same skillet, add beef broth and bring to a simmer. Return the rouladen to the skillet, cover, and transfer to the oven. Braise for about 2 hours or until the beef is tender.
Prepare the Red Cabbage
In a pot, combine shredded cabbage, grated apple, sliced onion, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat until the cabbage is tender, about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally.
Make the Dumplings
In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the egg and milk, then add to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Serve
Once the rouladen is done, remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Slice and serve with red cabbage and dumplings. Enjoy your meal!
Storage and Reheating
If you have leftovers, store the rouladen in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to develop, often making it taste even better the next day. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or in the microwave to preserve the tenderness of the beef.
For longer storage, you can also freeze the rouladen. Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above.
Variations to Try
While the traditional rouladen recipe is beloved, feel free to experiment with different fillings to suit your taste. For a Mediterranean twist, try adding sun-dried tomatoes and feta cheese. For a spicier kick, consider incorporating jalapeños or a touch of chili powder to the filling. Each variation will bring a unique flavor profile while keeping the essence of this classic dish.
You can also swap out the red cabbage for other seasonal vegetables, such as sautéed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts, to add variety to your meal. The dumpling recipe can be modified as well; for a gluten-free option, substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make the rouladen ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rouladen in advance and reheat them in the oven before serving.
→ What can I substitute for beef broth?
You can use vegetable broth or chicken broth as an alternative.
→ How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
→ Can I freeze the dumplings?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked dumplings and cook them directly from frozen.
Braised Beef Rouladen with Red Cabbage and Dumplings
Braised Beef Rouladen with Red Cabbage and Dumplings is a hearty and traditional German dish that combines tender beef rolled with flavorsome fillings, served alongside sweet and tangy red cabbage and fluffy dumplings.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Family Comfort Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
For the Rouladen
- 4 beef rouladen (thinly sliced beef)
- 4 slices of bacon
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups beef broth
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
For the Red Cabbage
- 1 small head of red cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 apple, peeled and grated
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Dumplings
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 large egg
- 1 cup milk
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Season the beef rouladen with salt and pepper. Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard on each slice. Place a slice of bacon and some chopped onions on top of each slice, then roll them up tightly and secure with toothpicks.
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the rouladen and sear until browned on all sides. Remove from skillet and set aside.
In the same skillet, add beef broth and bring to a simmer. Return the rouladen to the skillet, cover, and transfer to the oven. Braise for about 2 hours or until the beef is tender.
In a pot, combine shredded cabbage, grated apple, sliced onion, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook over medium heat until the cabbage is tender, about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally.
In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. In another bowl, whisk together the egg and milk, then add to the dry ingredients. Mix until smooth. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop spoonfuls of the dumpling batter into the water and cook for about 10 minutes or until they float to the surface.
Once the rouladen is done, remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes. Slice and serve with red cabbage and dumplings. Enjoy your meal!
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 620 kcal
- Total Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 180mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 45g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 10g
- Protein: 40g