Description
This traditional German dish features thinly sliced beef rolled with tangy mustard, smoky bacon, caramelized onions, and pickles, then slow-simmered in a rich, savory gravy. Perfect for special occasions or a cozy Sunday dinner, this dish is best enjoyed with spaetzle, mashed potatoes, or red cabbage
Ingredients
Beef Rolls
- 6 thin slices top round or sirloin beef (about 1/4-inch thick)
- 3 tbsp German-style or Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 6 small dill pickles, cut into spears
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil (for searing)
Gravy
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup red wine (or extra beef broth)
- 2 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tbsp cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Beef
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Lay beef slices flat and spread a thin layer of mustard on each.
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Season lightly with salt and pepper.
2. Assemble the Rouladen
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Place one slice of bacon, a few chopped onions, and a pickle spear on each piece of beef.
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Roll tightly and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
3. Sear the Rolls
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Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
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Sear the rouladen on all sides until browned, then remove and set aside.
4. Make the Gravy
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In the same pan, sauté the remaining onions until softened.
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Stir in tomato paste, then deglaze with red wine.
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Add beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, then bring to a simmer.
5. Simmer to Perfection
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Return the beef rolls to the pan, cover, and simmer on low heat for 1.5 to 2 hours until tender.
6. Finish the Sauce
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Remove the rouladen from the pan.
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If needed, mix 1 tbsp cornstarch with 2 tbsp water and stir into the gravy to thicken.
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Adjust seasoning to taste.
Notes
- Cut of Beef: Top round, sirloin, or flank steak works best.
- No Red Wine? Substitute with extra beef broth or a splash of balsamic vinegar.
- Make Ahead: Rouladen tastes even better the next day as flavors meld together.
Nutrition
- Calories: ~450 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 870mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 105mg