Rouladen(Doc Bowen Special)
Rouladen is a hearty German dish featuring thinly sliced beef rolled with bacon and onions, then browned and simmered to tender perfection, offering rich flavors and satisfying comfort.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the round steak into 2-inch strips.
- Spread each piece with mustard.
- Place a strip of bacon on each piece and sprinkle with chopped onion.
- Roll the meat into bundles and secure with 2 toothpicks each.
- Dredge or cover the rolled bundles with flour.
- Brown the bundles in cooking oil until a good brown crust forms.
- Add 1/2 cup water to the skillet and cover.
- Simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, adding water if necessary.
- Optionally, do the simmering in a crock-pot.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider marinating the round steak in a mixture of vinegar and spices for a few hours before starting. If you don’t have bacon, you can substitute with prosciutto or pancetta for a different taste. Instead of mustard, try using a mix of horseradish and mustard for a spicier kick. Browning the meat well is key to developing rich flavors.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the rouladen alongside traditional sides like German Potato Salad (Low-Fat) or creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious juices. A side of sautéed green beans or Collard Greens A La Hurt adds a fresh contrast. For a complete meal, pair it with a hearty bread to mop up the sauce and a glass of red wine.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the rouladen in a skillet with a bit of water or broth, cover, and heat over low until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat in the microwave, but be careful not to dry it out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Rouladen(Doc Bowen Special) contains roughly 97 calories, with 5g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 705mg per serving (31% 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 use a different cut of meat for rouladen?
Yes, while round steak is traditional, you can use flank steak or sirloin, which also work well. Just ensure the meat is thin enough to roll. If using a tougher cut, consider marinating it longer to enhance tenderness.
What can I do if I don't have toothpicks?
If you don’t have toothpicks, kitchen twine is a great alternative for securing the rouladen. Just tie the bundles tightly to keep the fillings inside while cooking. If neither is available, you can also use a skewer to hold them together.
Can I make rouladen ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the rouladen, roll them up, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to meld. Simply brown and simmer when you’re ready to serve.
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).