German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen)

These German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen) are a cozy, hearty dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, these rolls are filled with flavorful ground beef and complemented by turkey bacon in a creamy sauce. The blend of spices and rich broth makes each bite a delightful experience. Serve them alongside potatoes or Spätzle for a truly satisfying meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Filling: The combination of ground beef and aromatic spices creates a delicious filling that bursts with flavor.
• Versatile Dish: Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, Kohlrouladen can be customized with various fillings or sauces.
• Comforting Meal: These cabbage rolls are perfect for comforting cold-weather meals, offering both warmth and satisfaction.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward instructions, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Great Leftovers: The flavors deepen over time, making Kohlrouladen an excellent choice for meal prep or leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather the essential tools before you start. Having everything on hand will help streamline the process and keep you organized.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Deep pan or pot
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for boiling cabbage leaves until they soften, ensuring they roll easily without tearing.
• Deep pan or pot: Perfect for browning the cabbage rolls and simmering them in broth, allowing for even cooking.
• Mixing bowl: Helps combine all filling ingredients thoroughly, ensuring consistent flavor throughout each roll.
• Whisk: Useful for mixing cornstarch into the sauce smoothly without lumps.

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

For the Sauce

• 100 grams Turkey Bacon (thick-cut and medium-diced)
• 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 until it becomes soft.

Step 2: Prepare Cabbage Leaves

Start by rinsing the green cabbage. Pick off 8 nice leaves by cutting the base of each leaf off carefully.

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 will make the leaves more flexible.

Step 4: Prepare Filling Mixture

Wring out the soaked roll and medium dice it if necessary. In a mixing bowl, knead together all filling ingredients until you achieve a homogenous mixture.

Step 5: Assemble Cabbage Rolls

Divide the beef filling among the 8 cabbage leaves. Roll up each leaf starting from the stem side first, folding in both left and right ends as you roll forward.

Step 6: Secure Cabbage Rolls

Tighten each cabbage roll using butcher’s twine wrapped around it; chives or green onion can also work well as ties.

Step 7: Brown Cabbage Rolls

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a deep pan or pot over medium heat. Add the cabbage rolls seam-side down first along with chopped turkey bacon. Sauté until browned on all sides.

Step 8: Simmer with Broth

Once browned, add beef broth to cover the rolls. Cover with a lid and let simmer at medium-low heat for about 30 minutes.

Step 9: Thicken Sauce

Remove cabbage rolls from broth and cover with aluminum foil to keep warm. In the same pan, add cream and whisk in cornstarch incrementally until desired thickness is reached.

Step 10: Season Sauce

Season your sauce with salt, pepper, and additional paprika powder according to taste preferences.

Step 11: Serve

Serve your delicious Kohlrouladen warm alongside mashed potatoes, boiled potatoes, or Spätzle to soak up that amazing sauce! Enjoy!

How to Serve German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen)

German stuffed cabbage rolls, or Kohlrouladen, can be served in various delightful ways. These savory rolls are comforting and rich, making them perfect for satisfying meals. Here are some tasty serving suggestions.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes provide a smooth contrast to the hearty cabbage rolls, soaking up the flavorful sauce beautifully.

Boiled Potatoes

• Simple boiled potatoes offer a light and fluffy side that won’t overpower the dish but will complement the richness of the Kohlrouladen.

Spätzle

• These traditional German egg noodles are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. Toss them with butter and herbs for added flavor.

Sautéed Cabbage

• Use leftover cabbage leaves to create a sautéed side dish. Add chopped Turkey Bacon for a smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the rolls.

Side Salad

• A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the stuffed cabbage rolls, providing a refreshing crunch.

Applesauce

• A small serving of applesauce adds a sweet contrast that enhances the savory flavors of the dish, creating a delightful taste experience.

How to Perfect German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen)

To make your German stuffed cabbage rolls truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips for perfecting your recipe.

• Choose fresh cabbage: Fresh cabbage leaves are more pliable and easier to roll without tearing.
• Use lean ground beef: An 85% lean ground beef will provide enough flavor without being too greasy.
• Soak bread well: Ensure that your bread roll is thoroughly soaked so it integrates smoothly into the meat mixture.
• Season generously: Don’t hesitate to adjust seasonings like salt and paprika to suit your taste preferences for maximum flavor.
• Simmer gently: Cooking at medium-low heat allows flavors to meld beautifully while preventing overcooking.
• Thicken sauce gradually: Adding cornstarch slowly helps achieve your desired sauce consistency without lumps.

Best Side Dishes for German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen)

Pairing your German stuffed cabbage rolls with complementary side dishes enhances the overall meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Roasted Root Vegetables
   Colorful root vegetables like carrots and parsnips add sweetness and texture when roasted until caramelized.

2. Garlic Bread
   A crusty garlic bread can be an excellent addition, perfect for dipping into the creamy sauce of the Kohlrouladen.

3. Pickled Red Cabbage
   This tangy side dish contrasts nicely with the savory rolls, adding a burst of flavor and color to your plate.

4. Creamed Spinach
   A rich creamed spinach provides creaminess while balancing out the flavors of beef in the stuffed cabbage.

5. Sauerkraut
   Traditional sauerkraut offers a tangy bite that pairs well with the savory filling of your cabbage rolls.

6. Grilled Asparagus
   Lightly grilled asparagus adds crunch and freshness, making it an elegant complement to this hearty dish.

7. Potato Salad
   A classic potato salad can provide a cool contrast and is often enjoyed alongside hearty meals in Germany.

8. Rösti
   These Swiss-style potato pancakes offer crispy texture and can be seasoned to match your preferred flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen), it’s easy to overlook some details. Here are a few common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the Soaking Step: Not soaking the roll can lead to a dry filling. Make sure to soak it in water until soft before using it.

• Overcooking Cabbage Leaves: Cooking cabbage leaves for too long can make them mushy. Simmer them just until softened for better texture.

• Not Seasoning Properly: Failing to season the filling adequately will result in bland rolls. Taste your mixture and adjust salt, pepper, and spices accordingly before rolling.

• Improper Rolling Technique: Rolling cabbage leaves too loosely may cause them to unravel during cooking. Tuck in the sides firmly as you roll for a tight seal.

• Ignoring Broth Quantity: Using too little broth could lead to dry rolls. Ensure that there’s enough liquid in the pan to keep them moist while cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container.
• They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen)

• Freeze unbaked or baked rolls, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap.
• They are best used within 2-3 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover; heat on high for about 2-3 minutes or until warmed thoroughly.
• Stovetop: Heat in a pan over medium-low heat with a splash of broth, stirring occasionally, until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen) that may help you as you prepare this dish.

Can I use other meats for the filling?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey or lamb if you prefer. Just ensure they are cooked thoroughly.

What can I serve with Kohlrouladen?

German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen) pair well with mashed potatoes, boiled potatoes, or Spätzle to absorb the delicious sauce.

Can I make these rolls ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare them a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook.

How do I know when they are fully cooked?

The rolls should be tender and heated through. The internal temperature should reach at least 160°F (70°C) if using ground beef.

What is the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in the oven for even heating or use a microwave for quick warming. Be sure to add a bit of broth if reheating on the stovetop.

Final Thoughts

German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen) are not only comforting but also versatile. Whether served for dinner or special occasions, they offer a delightful blend of flavors that satisfy every palate. Feel free to customize your filling by adding different herbs or vegetables according to your preferences!