German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen)

These German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen) are a warm and hearty dish that brings comfort to any meal. Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner, these rolls are filled with seasoned ground beef and Turkey Bacon, simmered in a creamy broth. The combination of flavors makes them irresistible, and they pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes or Spätzle. Discover the joy of making these traditional German delights that are sure to impress your guests!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Filling: The combination of ground beef, Turkey Bacon, and spices creates a savory filling that elevates each bite.
• Comfort Food: These cabbage rolls are not only filling but also provide a nostalgic taste of traditional German cuisine.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve with mashed potatoes or German egg noodles for a complete meal that suits various tastes.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is accessible even for beginner cooks.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into cooking, gather the essential tools to make your experience seamless. Having the right equipment will enhance your efficiency and ensure great results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Deep pan or pot
• Large pot for boiling
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Deep pan or pot: This is crucial for browning the cabbage rolls evenly and allowing them to simmer in the broth without overcrowding.
• Large pot for boiling: Used to soften the cabbage leaves quickly, making them pliable for rolling.
• Mixing bowl: Essential for combining all filling ingredients thoroughly.
• Whisk: Helps in mixing cornstarch with sauce smoothly to achieve the desired consistency.

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Ingredients

For the Cabbage Rolls

• 1 head green cabbage (large)
• 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
• 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: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

1. Soak the crusty roll in water and set it aside.
2. Rinse the green cabbage under running water. Carefully pick off 8 large leaves by cutting at their base; some may tear—this is okay.
3. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the cabbage leaves and let them simmer for about 2 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. Wring out the soaked roll and break it into smaller pieces if necessary.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef, diced onion, soaked roll, egg, sea salt, black pepper, paprika powder, marjoram, and diced Turkey Bacon.
3. Knead all ingredients together until you form a homogeneous mixture.

Step 3: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls

1. Divide the beef filling evenly among the 8 cabbage leaves.
2. Roll each leaf starting from the stem side; fold in both sides before rolling it up tightly from one end to another.

Step 4: Cook the Cabbage Rolls

1. Use butcher’s twine or chives to secure each roll if desired.
2. Heat olive oil in a deep pan over medium heat; add cabbage rolls seam-side down.
3. Brown rolls on all sides before pouring in beef broth. Cover with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for 30 minutes.

Step 5: Finish with Cream Sauce

1. Once cooked, remove cabbage rolls from broth; keep warm under aluminum foil.
2. To thicken sauce, whisk heavy cream with cornstarch in a separate cup before adding back into the pan.
3. Season sauce with salt, pepper, and additional paprika as needed.

Step 6: Serve Your Kohlrouladen

Serve your delicious Kohlrouladen hot alongside mashed potatoes or Spätzle to soak up that rich sauce! Enjoy!

How to Serve German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen)

German stuffed cabbage rolls, or Kohlrouladen, are versatile and can be served in various ways to enhance their deliciousness. Here are some serving suggestions that will elevate your meal experience.

With Creamy Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect companion, soaking up the rich sauce for a satisfying bite.

Accompanied by Boiled Potatoes

• Simple boiled potatoes provide a classic side, allowing the flavors of the cabbage rolls to shine through.

On a Bed of Spätzle

• Spätzle, a type of German egg noodle, is excellent for soaking up the velvety broth from the cabbage rolls.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

• Fresh herbs like parsley or chives add a pop of color and freshness to your plate.

Served with Sautéed Cabbage

• Sauté leftover cabbage with Turkey Bacon for a tasty side that complements the main dish beautifully.

How to Perfect German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen)

Creating the ideal Kohlrouladen takes attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your stuffed cabbage rolls turn out perfectly every time.

• Choose the Right Cabbage: Look for large green cabbages with tight leaves. They are easier to work with and hold together better during cooking.

• Soak Bread Properly: Make sure your bread roll is soaked just enough to soften but not soggy; this creates a better filling texture.

• Knead Filling Thoroughly: Kneading the beef mixture until well combined helps create a homogenous filling that stays intact when rolled.

• Cook Slowly: Allowing the cabbage rolls to simmer gently ensures they cook evenly and absorb all the flavors from the broth.

• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, gradually add cornstarch while whisking until you reach your desired thickness.

Best Side Dishes for German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen)

Pairing side dishes with your Kohlrouladen can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Crispy Roasted Potatoes: Seasoned and roasted until golden brown, these potatoes add a crunchy texture alongside the soft cabbage rolls.

2. Garlic Butter Green Beans: Tender green beans sautéed in garlic butter offer a fresh contrast and vibrant color on your plate.

3. Tangy Sauerkraut: This fermented cabbage dish adds acidity that balances the richness of the stuffed rolls well.

4. Vegetable Stir-Fry: A mix of seasonal vegetables quickly stir-fried retains their crunch and adds a bright flavor profile.

5. Creamy Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw provides a cool crunch that complements the warm, savory cabbage rolls nicely.

6. Potato Dumplings: These soft dumplings soak up sauces beautifully and make for a hearty addition to your meal.

7. Beet Salad: A simple beet salad adds earthiness and sweetness, pairing perfectly with the savory notes of Kohlrouladen.

8. Braised Red Cabbage: Sweet and tangy braised red cabbage contrasts nicely with the flavors of beef filling in your rolls.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making German stuffed cabbage rolls can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Boldly choosing the wrong cabbage: Selecting small or wilted leaves can lead to tearing. Always use a large, fresh green cabbage for better results.
• Overstuffing the rolls: Adding too much filling makes rolling difficult and leads to ruptured cabbage. Stick to an appropriate amount of filling for each leaf.
• Neglecting to soften the leaves: Skipping the boiling step may result in stiff leaves that are hard to roll. Always simmer them briefly for flexibility.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning may leave your dish bland. Always sample your filling before rolling and adjust spices as needed.
• Rushing the simmering process: Cooking the rolls too quickly can lead to uneven cooking. Allow them to simmer gently for the best flavors and tenderness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Use an airtight container: Store your German stuffed cabbage rolls in a sealed container to maintain freshness.
• Keep refrigerated: They can last up to 3 days in the fridge without losing quality.

Freezing German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen)

• Use freezer-safe containers: Ideal for long-term storage, allowing you to enjoy later.
• Up to 3 months: Properly stored, they maintain flavor and texture for about three months.

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 in a microwave-safe dish for 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Place in a pan with some broth or sauce and heat over low heat until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions regarding German stuffed cabbage rolls that might help clarify your cooking process.

What is the best type of cabbage for Kohlrouladen?

Savoy cabbage is often preferred due to its tender leaves, making it easier to wrap around the filling. However, regular green cabbage works well too.

Can I use turkey instead of beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey can be substituted for ground beef in this recipe. It will still yield delicious results while being a leaner option.

How do I ensure my rolls stay intact during cooking?

Make sure the cabbage leaves are softened enough before rolling. Additionally, securing them with butcher’s twine or green onion helps keep everything together during cooking.

What should I serve with German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen)?

These delicious rolls pair wonderfully with mashed potatoes, boiled potatoes, or Spätzle, allowing you to soak up that creamy sauce.

Final Thoughts

German stuffed cabbage rolls (Kohlrouladen) are not only hearty and satisfying but also versatile enough for any occasion. Feel free to customize your filling with different herbs or spices based on your preference. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!