These German stuffed cabbage rolls, known as Kohlrouladen, are a delightful combination of flavors and textures. They’re perfect for cozy dinners and entertaining guests. With tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory ground beef filling, these rolls are simmered in a creamy broth that brings the whole dish together. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or an impressive main course, this recipe will not disappoint.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Delicious Flavor: The combination of ground beef and Turkey Bacon gives these rolls a rich taste that’s hard to resist.
- Comforting Dish: Perfect for chilly evenings, these stuffed cabbage rolls warm you from the inside out.
- Versatile Serving Options: Serve with mashed potatoes, boiled potatoes, or Spätzle to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Family-Friendly Meal: A great way to introduce kids to cabbage while providing a nutritious meal they’ll enjoy.
- Make Ahead Friendly: Prepare them in advance and simply reheat for a quick, satisfying dinner.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Deep pan or pot
- Cooking spoon
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Aluminum foil
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: Ideal for boiling the cabbage leaves until they’re tender.
- Deep pan or pot: Ensures even cooking of the cabbage rolls and allows for easy simmering in broth.
- Mixing bowl: Perfect for combining the filling ingredients thoroughly.
- Whisk: Essential for mixing cornstarch with sauce to achieve the desired thickness.
Ingredients
For the Cabbage Rolls
- 1 head green cabbage (large)
- 1 pound ground beef (85% lean, 15% fat content)
- 1 yellow onion (medium diced)
- 1 crusty white roll
- 1 egg
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika powder (can use mild, spicy or a mixture)
- 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
- 100 grams Turkey Bacon (thick-cut and medium-diced)
For the Sauce
- 500 milliliters beef broth
- 200 milliliters heavy cream
- Cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)
- Salt, pepper, paprika powder (to taste)
How to Make German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen)
Step 1: Soak the Roll
Soak the crusty white roll in water and set aside. This will help soften it for mixing into the filling.
Step 2: Prepare Cabbage Leaves
Start by rinsing the cabbage. Carefully pick off 8 nice leaves by cutting the base of each leaf. Some may tear; that’s perfectly fine!
Step 3: Boil Cabbage Leaves
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Toss in the cabbage leaves and let them simmer for about 2 minutes until softened. This step will make them more flexible for rolling.
Step 4: Prepare Filling Mixture
Wring out the soaked roll and medium dice if necessary. In a mixing bowl, knead together all filling ingredients until well combined.
Step 5: Assemble Cabbage Rolls
Divide the beef filling among the 8 cabbage leaves. Start rolling from the stem side first, folding in both sides before rolling forward until fully wrapped.
Step 6: Secure Cabbage Rolls
Tighten each roll using butcher’s twine or chives to hold everything together during cooking.
Step 7: Brown Cabbage Rolls
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in your deep pan or pot over medium heat. Add in your cabbage rolls seam side down first. Add chopped Turkey Bacon and sauté until browned on all sides.
Step 8: Simmer with Broth
Once browned, carefully pour in beef broth over the rolls. Cover with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes.
Step 9: Thicken Sauce
After simmering, remove cabbage rolls from broth and cover with aluminum foil to keep warm. To thicken your sauce, whisk together cream and cornstarch until desired consistency is reached before adding back into the pan.
Step 10: Season
Season your sauce with salt, pepper, and paprika powder according to taste before serving.
Step 11: Serve
Serve your delicious Kohlrouladen alongside mashed potatoes, boiled potatoes, or Spätzle to enjoy that creamy sauce fully! You can also sauté any leftover cabbage with additional Turkey Bacon as a tasty side dish.
How to Serve German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen)
German stuffed cabbage rolls, or Kohlrouladen, are hearty and flavorful. They can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience.
With Mashed Potatoes
- Creamy mashed potatoes pair wonderfully with the savory sauce, soaking up all the delicious flavors.
Over Spätzle
- Serve your Kohlrouladen over Spätzle, a type of German egg noodle that complements the dish’s richness perfectly.
With Boiled Potatoes
- Simple boiled potatoes provide a classic side that balances the dish without overpowering it.
Garnished with Fresh Herbs
- Top with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and an added layer of flavor.
Accompanied by Sautéed Vegetables
- Lightly sautéed seasonal vegetables add freshness and crunch, making for a well-rounded meal.
How to Perfect German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen)
To achieve the best results when making Kohlrouladen, consider these helpful tips.
- Choose Fresh Cabbage: Select a firm head of green cabbage for optimal leaf flexibility and flavor.
- Soak the Roll Well: Ensure the crusty white roll is soaked enough to soften, allowing it to blend seamlessly into the filling.
- Knead Thoroughly: Mix the filling ingredients well until fully combined for even flavor distribution in every bite.
- Avoid Overfilling: Use just enough filling to allow for easy rolling without tearing the leaves.
- Simmer Gently: Cook at medium low heat to ensure even cooking without burning or drying out the rolls.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust seasoning before serving; this enhances the overall flavor profile.
Best Side Dishes for German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen)
Pairing side dishes with your Kohlrouladen can elevate this meal even further. Here are some great options to consider.
German Potato Salad
A tangy potato salad made with vinegar, onions, and herbs can provide a refreshing contrast.Roasted Root Vegetables
Seasonal root vegetables roasted until caramelized add sweetness and texture alongside the rolls.Cucumber Salad
A light cucumber salad dressed with vinegar and herbs offers a crispy counterpoint to the warm cabbage rolls.Braised Red Cabbage
Sweet and sour braised red cabbage is a traditional accompaniment that complements the flavors of Kohlrouladen beautifully.Carrot Purée
Smooth carrot purée adds a hint of sweetness while being nutritious and visually appealing on the plate.Bread Dumplings (Semmelknödel)
These soft dumplings are perfect for soaking up any remaining sauce on your plate.Grilled Asparagus
Tender grilled asparagus provides a seasonal touch that adds vibrant color and taste to your meal.Sauerkraut
This fermented dish brings acidity that balances out the richness of the cabbage rolls perfectly.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making German stuffed cabbage rolls (Kohlrouladen) can be a delightful experience, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.
- Bold phrase: Using the wrong cabbage leaves. Make sure to use large green cabbage leaves for easy rolling. Smaller or tougher leaves may tear and ruin the rolls.
- Bold phrase: Overcooking the cabbage. Simmer the cabbage leaves for just 2 minutes. Overcooking can lead to mushy leaves that won’t hold together.
- Bold phrase: Not soaking the roll enough. Ensure the crusty white roll is adequately soaked; otherwise, your filling may end up too dry and crumbly.
- Bold phrase: Skipping seasoning adjustments. Taste your filling before wrapping it up! Adjust salt and pepper to ensure a flavorful filling.
- Bold phrase: Forgetting to thicken the sauce properly. Mix cornstarch with some sauce in a cup before adding it back into the pan. This will prevent lumps in your sauce.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Allow cabbage rolls to cool completely before sealing.
Freezing German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen)
- Freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Wrap each roll individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a container.
Reheating German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen)
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake covered for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, checking halfway through.
- Stovetop: Place in a pan with a bit of broth and cover, heating over medium-low heat until warmed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making German stuffed cabbage rolls.
What is the best type of meat for German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen)?
Ground beef is commonly used, but you can also mix in ground turkey or lamb for additional flavor.
Can I make German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen) vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute ground meat with a mixture of cooked grains like rice or quinoa combined with vegetables and spices.
How do I know when my cabbage rolls are done cooking?
Cabbage rolls are done when they are tender and cooked through, usually after simmering for about 30 minutes.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to roll.
Final Thoughts
These German stuffed cabbage rolls (Kohlrouladen) offer a hearty and comforting meal that is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests. Their versatility allows you to customize fillings or sauces based on your preferences. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; it could become a new family favorite!
German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen)
Indulge in the comforting flavors of German stuffed cabbage rolls, known as Kohlrouladen. This hearty dish features tender cabbage leaves enveloping a savory ground beef filling, all simmered in a rich, creamy broth that harmonizes every bite. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, these delicious rolls not only warm you from the inside but also impress with their elegant presentation. Serve them alongside your favorite sides like mashed potatoes or Spätzle to soak up the delightful sauce, making every meal memorable.
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1 large head green cabbage
- 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 1 crusty white roll
- 1 egg
- Sea salt
- Black pepper
- Paprika powder
- Dried marjoram
- 500 milliliters beef broth
- 200 milliliters heavy cream
Instructions
- Soak the crusty white roll in water.
- Rinse and carefully separate 8 cabbage leaves.
- Boil the cabbage leaves for about 2 minutes until softened.
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, diced onion, soaked roll, egg, salt, pepper, paprika, and marjoram.
- Divide filling among cabbage leaves and roll tightly.
- Secure rolls with butcher's twine or chives.
- Brown rolls in olive oil over medium heat, then add beef broth.
- Simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes.
- Thicken sauce with cream and cornstarch; season to taste before serving.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cabbage roll (150g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: Array
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 80mg