German Rolladen
German Rolladen features thin beef slices filled with bacon and onion, rolled and simmered in a savory gravy, offering rich flavors perfect for hearty, comfort-food meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pound 4 slices of beef until thin.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
- On each slice of beef, spread 1 slice chopped bacon and about ¼ chopped onion along the center of the meat, lengthwise.
- Add a pickle spear if desired.
- Roll up the beef slices and secure with wooden toothpicks or white thread.
- Heat a little olive oil in a pan.
- Brown the beef rolls on all sides.
- Add approximately ¾ cup water to the pan.
- Cover and simmer for about 1 hour or until the meat is tender.
- Remove the rolladen from the pan and add approximately ¾ cup water mixed with 1 tablespoon cornstarch.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce heat, and stir in 2 tablespoons sour cream.
- Mix thoroughly and serve the rolladen with gravy, accompanied by spaetzle or potatoes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider marinating the beef in a mixture of vinegar and spices for a few hours. If you don't have bacon, pancetta can be an excellent substitute. If you prefer a thicker gravy, adjust the cornstarch to your liking. Keep the heat moderate while simmering to prevent toughening the meat. Using a mix of herbs can elevate the flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the rolladen with a generous spoonful of the creamy gravy over the top. They pair beautifully with spaetzle or potatoes, which help soak up the sauce. A side of sautéed green beans or a fresh salad, like a simple Dressing For Endive Or Lettuce, can provide a nice contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover rolladen in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. You can also microwave them, covered, in short intervals until heated through, ensuring they don't dry out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of German Rolladen contains roughly 172 calories, with 7g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is a good source of protein (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 827mg per serving (36% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make German Rolladen ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rolladen in advance. After browning, let them cool and store them in the fridge. When ready to serve, simply simmer them in the sauce until heated through. This can enhance the flavors as they sit together.
What can I use instead of beef?
If you prefer a lighter option, you can use chicken breasts or turkey cutlets instead of beef. They will require less cooking time, so adjust the simmering time accordingly to ensure they remain tender.
What sides go best with this dish?
Traditional sides include spaetzle or boiled potatoes, which complement the rich gravy perfectly. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).