Beef Roulade Recipe

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Introduction

Beef roulade, a classic dish featuring thinly sliced beef wrapped around a savory filling, offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Its origins trace back to European peasant cuisine, where resourcefulness and creativity were key. The popularity of beef roulade stems from its versatility and satisfying heartiness, making it a comforting and impressive meal suitable for both casual family dinners and special occasions. This dish transforms relatively inexpensive cuts of beef into an elegant and flavorful experience.

Ingredients

Approximately 2 pounds beef round steak, cut into thin slices (about 1/4 inch thick). Flank steak can also be used. 4 slices bacon, diced 1 large onion, finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, minced 1/2 cup Dijon mustard 1/4 cup chopped dill pickles or gherkins 2 tablespoons vegetable oil 1 cup beef broth 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional) Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste * Optional additions to the filling: chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or hard-boiled eggs.

Preparation Steps

Begin by tenderizing the beef slices. Place each slice between two sheets of plastic wrap and pound with a meat mallet until it reaches a uniform thickness of approximately 1/4 inch. This step ensures even cooking and enhances tenderness. Season the flattened beef slices generously with salt and pepper. A light brushing of Dijon mustard on one side of each slice adds a tangy base flavor. Preparing all ingredients ahead of time, such as dicing the bacon and chopping the vegetables, streamlines the assembly process and allows for a more efficient workflow.

Cooking Instructions

1. Lay each prepared beef slice flat. Spread a thin layer of Dijon mustard over the surface. 2. Evenly distribute the diced bacon, chopped onion, minced garlic, and chopped dill pickles over the mustard-covered beef slices. 3. Tightly roll each slice, starting from one end, and secure with kitchen twine or toothpicks. Ensure the filling remains contained within the roll. 4. Heat vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the beef roulades on all sides, ensuring each side develops a rich, caramelized crust. This step is crucial for flavor development. 5. Remove the browned roulades from the pot and set aside. Add the remaining chopped onion to the pot and saut until softened and translucent. 6. Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using), scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring the liquid to a simmer. 7. Return the roulades to the pot, ensuring they are partially submerged in the liquid. 8. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender. The cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the beef slices. 9. Remove the roulades from the pot and set aside. If desired, thicken the sauce by simmering it over medium heat until it reaches the desired consistency. 10. Remove twine or toothpicks before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Beef roulade is traditionally served with creamy mashed potatoes, spaetzle, or buttered egg noodles to soak up the flavorful sauce. Steamed green beans, braised red cabbage, or roasted root vegetables make excellent side dishes. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a touch of elegance to the presentation. For a more contemporary twist, consider serving with polenta or a wild rice pilaf.

Tips and Common Mistakes

To avoid dry roulades, ensure the beef slices are thin and evenly pounded. Overcooking is a common mistake that can result in tough beef; monitor the internal temperature of the roulades during simmering. Searing the roulades properly before simmering is essential for developing a rich, deep flavor. Do not overcrowd the pot when browning the roulades, as this will lower the oil temperature and prevent proper browning. Using high-quality ingredients, particularly the beef broth and mustard, elevates the overall flavor profile. Letting the roulades rest briefly before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful dish.

Explore More Cooking Guides

Learning the “beef roulade recipe” empowers home cooks to transform simple ingredients into a sophisticated and satisfying meal. Its rich flavor, historical significance, and adaptability make it a valuable addition to any culinary repertoire. Whether you follow the traditional recipe or experiment with variations, beef roulade is sure to impress. Discover the joy of cooking and explore more delicious recipes and cooking guides at foodrecipestory.com.