Roladen(German Beef Rolls)

Prep: 20 min Cook: 30 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: German

Roladen are flavorful German beef rolls filled with onion and bacon, then browned to perfection. A hearty dish perfect for comforting family dinners or special occasions.

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Ingredients

  • 6 very thin slices top round
  • 1/2 lb bacon
  • 1 medium onion
  • 4 Tbsp flour
  • 2 cubes beef bouillon
  • mustard
  • pepper
  • vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. Dissolve the beef bouillon cubes in 2 cups of water and set aside.
  2. Slice the bacon into 1-inch pieces.
  3. Sprinkle the top round slices with pepper.
  4. Spread each slice with mustard.
  5. Distribute chopped onion and bacon evenly onto each slice.
  6. Starting from the short end, roll up each slice and fasten with round toothpicks.
  7. Coat a pan with vegetable oil and brown the rolls on all sides.
  8. Remove the rolls from the pan and serve.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance the flavor of your Roladen, try marinating the beef slices in a mixture of vinegar and spices for a few hours before assembly. For a twist, consider substituting the bacon with prosciutto for a different flavor profile. Ensure the rolls are tightly secured with toothpicks to prevent them from unrolling during cooking. Don't skip the mustard, as it adds a nice tang to balance the richness of the beef and bacon.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Roladen alongside traditional German sides such as red cabbage or potato dumplings for a complete meal. A rich gravy made from the drippings can elevate the dish further. For a lighter option, pair it with a fresh salad. This dish also pairs beautifully with Best Beef Goulash for a hearty feast.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Roladen can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or water to keep them moist, covering with a lid until heated through. Alternatively, you can gently reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Roladen(German Beef Rolls) contains roughly 223 calories, with 8g protein, 23g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (53% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. It also contributes 3g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

223 kcal 11% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 7.9g 16% DV
Total Fat 11.3g 14% DV
Carbs 23.1g 8% DV
Fiber 2.9g 10% DV
Sugar 2.6g 5% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 328.2mg 14% DV
Potassium 252.5mg 5% DV
Cholesterol 16mg 5% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 26.5mcg 3% DV
Vitamin C 47.6mg 53% DV
Calcium 21.7mg 2% DV
Iron 1.6mg 9% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Wheat/Gluten

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 Roladen ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Roladen ahead of time. Assemble the rolls, then refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together. Just be sure to bring them to room temperature before browning to ensure even cooking.

What can I use instead of beef bouillon cubes?

If you don't have beef bouillon cubes, you can substitute with homemade beef stock or broth. This will enhance the flavor and add depth to the sauce. You can also use vegetable broth for a lighter option, though it may alter the flavor profile slightly.

How can I make Roladen more tender?

To ensure your Roladen are tender, consider using a meat mallet to pound the top round slices before assembling. This breaks down the fibers, making them more tender during cooking. Additionally, slow cooking the rolls in the broth can help them become more succulent and flavorful.

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).

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