Rouladen(German)

Prep: 20 min Cook: 70 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: German

Rouladen offers tender beef slices filled with onions and bacon, browned to perfection, simmered in a rich gravy—perfect for hearty family dinners or special occasions.

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Ingredients

  • rump roast, cut into 1/2-inch slices
  • flour
  • onions or pearl onions
  • bacon
  • oil
  • 1 cup water

Instructions

  1. Pound the roast slices in flour.
  2. Place one onion or pearl onion and a quarter or half slice of bacon on each slice of beef.
  3. Roll up the meat and secure with toothpicks.
  4. In an electric frypan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil and brown the meat on all sides.
  5. Remove the meat and place on a skewer.
  6. Add flour to the drippings and brown them.
  7. Add 1 cup of water to the pan and stir to make gravy.
  8. Return the beef to the gravy.
  9. Simmer for at least 1 hour.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance the flavor of your Rouladen, consider adding mustard or pickles to the filling along with the onions and bacon. For a lighter option, you can substitute the bacon with turkey bacon or omit it entirely. If you prefer a gluten-free version, use cornstarch instead of flour for thickening the gravy. Always taste the gravy before serving to adjust seasoning as needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Rouladen with traditional sides like red cabbage or potato dumplings for a classic German meal. It also pairs beautifully with Festive Black-Eyed Peas for a unique twist. A dollop of creamy horseradish sauce on the side can elevate the dish further. Don't forget some crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy!

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Rouladen can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the roulades in a saucepan with a bit of water or gravy over low heat until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, but be sure to cover the dish to retain moisture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Rouladen(German) contains roughly 125 calories, with 18g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (36% of the Daily Value). At about 125 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.

125 kcal 6% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 17.9g 36% DV
Total Fat 4.8g 6% DV
Carbs 1.4g 1% DV
Fiber 0.1g
Sugar 0.1g

Electrolytes

Sodium 70.4mg 3% DV
Potassium 262.7mg 6% DV
Cholesterol 52.9mg 18% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 0.6mcg
Vitamin C 0mg
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 10.5mg 1% DV
Iron 0.7mg 4% DV
Diet fit High-protein Keto-friendly 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 use a different cut of meat for Rouladen?

Yes, while rump roast is traditional, you can use flank steak or sirloin. Just ensure that the meat is thinly sliced and tender. Marinating the meat beforehand can also help improve tenderness and flavor.

How do I know when the Rouladen is done cooking?

The Rouladen should be fork-tender after simmering for at least 1 hour. If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach at least 145°F (63°C) for safe consumption. If it's not tender enough, allow it to simmer longer.

Can I freeze Rouladen?

Absolutely! Rouladen can be frozen after cooking. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

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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