Rinderrouladen
Rinderrouladen are tender German beef rolls filled with bacon, onions, and pickles, simmered in a savory gravy—perfect for hearty, comforting meals with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pound the beef until 1/4 inch thick and cut into pieces approximately 7x4 inches.
- Lightly sprinkle each piece with salt and black pepper.
- Spread each piece with 1 tablespoon of prepared mustard.
- Place half a slice of bacon down the center of each piece.
- Sprinkle with chopped onion and snipped parsley.
- Place half of a pickle on the narrow end of each piece and roll up.
- Secure each roll with a wooden pick.
- Heat vegetable oil in a 10-inch skillet until hot.
- Cook the rolls over medium heat until browned on all sides.
- Add 1/4 cup water, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper to the skillet.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer until beef is tender, about 1 hour.
- Remove the rolls and keep warm.
- Add enough water to the skillet to measure about 1 cup of liquid, if necessary.
- Mix 2 tablespoons of flour with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry.
- Gradually stir the slurry into the skillet's broth.
- Bring to a boil, stirring constantly, and cook for 1 minute.
- Serve the rolls with the gravy, garnished with parsley springs, over mashed potatoes.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal tenderness, ensure the beef is pounded evenly. If you don't have prepared mustard, Dijon is a great substitute. Consider using prosciutto instead of bacon for a different flavor profile. You can also add some chopped carrots or celery to the broth for added depth. Pair these Rinderrouladen with traditional sides like red cabbage or browse more beef recipes for inspiration.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Rinderrouladen over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious gravy. A side of steamed green beans or a fresh salad adds a nice contrast. For a complete German-inspired meal, consider pairing with red cabbage or browse more beef recipes for unique accompaniments. Garnish each serving with fresh parsley springs for a vibrant finish.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Rinderrouladen can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth or water to prevent drying out. Cover the skillet to retain moisture, heating until warmed through. They can also be reheated in the microwave, but be cautious to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rinderrouladen contains roughly 296 calories, with 11g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (31% of the Daily Value), protein (21% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2113mg per serving (92% 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 Rinderrouladen ahead of time?
Yes, Rinderrouladen can be prepared a day in advance. After cooking, let them cool completely, then store in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, gently reheat them in the sauce on the stove over low heat until warmed through, ensuring they remain moist.
What can I substitute for dill pickles?
If you don't have dill pickles, you can use bread and butter pickles for a sweeter flavor, or even try using sliced olives for a different twist. Just keep in mind that it will change the overall taste of the dish.
Can I use a different cut of beef?
Certainly! While boneless beef round steak is traditional, you can use flank steak or sirloin for a tender result. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed, as different cuts may require different cooking durations to become tender.
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).