Braised Beef Rouladen with Red Cabbage and Dumplings

Name: Braised Beef Rouladen with Red Cabbage and Dumplings
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 beef rouladen (thinly sliced beef); 4 slices of bacon; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons mustard; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup beef broth; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 small head of red cabbage, shredded; 1 apple, peeled and grated; 1 onion, sliced; 1/4 cup vinegar; 1/4 cup sugar; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon baking powder; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1 large egg; 3/4 cup milk

Highlighted under: Comfort Recipes

Experience the rich flavors of Braised Beef Rouladen paired with tangy red cabbage and fluffy dumplings. A classic dish that warms the heart and delights the palate.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-04T19:25:51.216Z

This traditional German dish is a feast for the senses. The rouladen is tender, juicy, and bursting with flavors, while the red cabbage adds a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. Dumplings complete the meal, making it a perfect gathering dish!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A hearty and comforting meal for family gatherings
Authentic flavors that transport you to Germany
Slow-cooked beef that melts in your mouth
Perfectly paired with tangy red cabbage and soft dumplings

      

A Heartwarming Tradition

Braised Beef Rouladen is more than just a meal; it's a tradition that has been passed down through generations. This classic German dish embodies the essence of comfort food, showcasing the flavors that are deeply rooted in German culinary heritage. The process of slowly braising the beef allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a rich, savory experience that brings families together around the dinner table.

The combination of tender beef, crispy bacon, and hearty onions wrapped in rouladen creates a mouthwatering filling. This dish is often served during family gatherings, holidays, and special occasions, making it a staple in many households. Whether it's a cozy winter evening or a festive celebration, Braised Beef Rouladen warms both the heart and the soul.

Perfect Pairings

This dish is perfectly complemented by the tangy taste of red cabbage, which adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the rouladen. The addition of grated apple in the cabbage brings a subtle sweetness that balances the acidity of the vinegar. Together, they create a harmonious side that enhances the overall dining experience.

Fluffy dumplings provide the ideal base to soak up the delicious sauce from the braised beef. They are easy to make and add a delightful texture to the plate. This classic combination not only satisfies your hunger but also creates a beautifully colorful and inviting presentation that will impress your guests.

Cooking Tips for Success

To achieve the best results, it's important to use high-quality beef for your rouladen. Look for cuts that are well-marbled, as the fat will render during cooking, enhancing the flavor and tenderness of the meat. Additionally, don't rush the browning process; taking your time to achieve a deep golden color will contribute to the dish's overall depth of flavor.

When making the red cabbage, be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. Every cabbage varies in sweetness, so you might find that you need a bit more sugar or vinegar to achieve the perfect balance. Lastly, for the dumplings, make sure not to overwork the dough; a gentle hand will yield light and airy dumplings that are a joy to eat.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking.

For the Rouladen

4 beef rouladen (thinly sliced beef)
4 slices of bacon
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons mustard
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup beef broth
2 tablespoons vegetable oil

For the Red Cabbage

1 small head of red cabbage, shredded
1 apple, peeled and grated
1 onion, sliced
1/4 cup vinegar
1/4 cup sugar
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Dumplings

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 large egg
3/4 cup milk

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor.

Instructions

Follow these steps carefully for a successful dish.

Prepare the Rouladen

Lay the beef rouladen flat and spread mustard on each piece. Place a slice of bacon, some chopped onion, salt, and pepper on each roulade, then roll tightly and secure with toothpicks.

Brown the Rouladen

In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the rouladen and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Simmer

In the same pot, add the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Return the rouladen to the pot, cover, and cook on low heat for 2 hours until tender.

Prepare the Red Cabbage

In a separate pot, combine shredded cabbage, grated apple, sliced onion, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook on low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Make the Dumplings

In a bowl, mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Add the egg and milk, stirring until a dough forms. Shape into small dumplings.

Cook the Dumplings

In a pot of boiling salted water, drop the dumplings and cook for about 15 minutes until they float to the surface.

Serve

Remove the rouladen and toothpicks, serve with red cabbage and dumplings on the side.

Enjoy your delicious meal!

Storage and Reheating

Leftover Braised Beef Rouladen can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to develop as it sits, making it even more delicious when reheated. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of beef broth to maintain moisture.

You can also freeze the rouladen for longer storage. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as mentioned above. This makes for a convenient meal option on busy days.

Variations to Try

While traditional rouladen is a favorite, feel free to experiment with different fillings. Try adding sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers for an extra layer of flavor. You can also substitute the beef with pork or turkey for a leaner option while still enjoying the essence of this comforting dish.

If you're looking for a lighter side, consider serving the rouladen with a simple green salad instead of the red cabbage. This adds freshness to the meal and is a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet while still enjoying this hearty dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the rouladen in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the rouladen a day ahead, store them in the fridge, and cook them the next day.

→ What can I substitute for beef broth?

You can use vegetable broth or chicken broth as a substitute.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! The rouladen and red cabbage freeze well. Just make sure to cool them completely before freezing.

→ How do I know when the rouladen is done?

The rouladen is done when it is fork-tender and the meat easily pulls apart.