German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen)

These German stuffed cabbage rolls, known as Kohlrouladen, are a comforting dish that warms the heart and delights the palate. Perfect for family dinners or special occasions, this recipe features tender cabbage leaves enveloping a flavorful ground beef filling, all simmered in a creamy broth. The unique combination of ingredients makes these rolls a standout, ensuring they will become a favorite at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The rich combination of ground beef and spices creates a mouthwatering filling that pairs perfectly with the softness of cabbage.
• Comforting Meal: Kohlrouladen is the ultimate comfort food, ideal for cozy family dinners or gatherings with friends.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can create this traditional dish without any fuss, making it suitable for cooks of all levels.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve these rolls with mashed potatoes, boiled potatoes, or Spätzle to soak up the creamy sauce.
• Make Ahead Option: You can prepare the rolls in advance and simmer them just before serving for a stress-free meal.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing German stuffed cabbage rolls easier and more enjoyable. Below are essential items you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Deep pan or pot
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Ideal for boiling cabbage leaves quickly without overcrowding.
• Deep pan or pot: Ensures even cooking of the cabbage rolls while allowing room for the cream sauce.
• Mixing bowl: Helps combine ingredients thoroughly when preparing the beef filling.

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 (mild or spicy)
• 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: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves

1. Soak the roll in water and set aside.
2. Rinse the cabbage and pick off 8 nice leaves by cutting at the base.
3. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add cabbage leaves and simmer for 2 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. Wring out the soaked roll and medium dice if necessary.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef with onion, egg, sea salt, black pepper, paprika powder, dried marjoram, and diced roll. Knead until well mixed.

Step 3: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls

1. Divide the beef filling among the 8 prepared cabbage leaves.
2. Roll each leaf starting from the stem side then fold in both ends before rolling forward tightly.

Step 4: Cook the Cabbage Rolls

1. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a deep pan over medium heat.
2. Place cabbage rolls seam side down in the pan alongside chopped Turkey Bacon; sauté until browned on all sides.
3. Pour in beef broth, cover with a lid, and let simmer over medium-low heat for 30 minutes.

Step 5: Prepare the Sauce

1. Remove cooked cabbage rolls from broth; cover to keep warm.
2. Mix heavy cream with cornstarch to thicken as desired; return mixture to pan and stir until combined.
3. Season sauce with salt, pepper, and additional paprika powder if needed.

Step 6: Serve Your Kohlrouladen

Serve your delicious Kohlrouladen alongside mashed potatoes, boiled potatoes, or Spätzle to absorb that rich sauce! Enjoy!

How to Serve German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen)

German stuffed cabbage rolls, or Kohlrouladen, are a hearty dish that can be served in various ways. These flavorful rolls can be paired with an array of sides to enhance their taste and presentation.

With Mashed Potatoes

• Creamy mashed potatoes complement the rich sauce of the cabbage rolls and absorb all the delicious flavors.

Over Spätzle

• Serve Kohlrouladen over a bed of Spätzle, allowing the noodles to soak up the savory broth for a delightful experience.

With Sautéed Cabbage

• For a simple side, sauté leftover cabbage with Turkey Bacon for added flavor and texture, creating a cohesive meal.

Accompanied by Pickles

• A side of tangy pickles adds a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the cabbage rolls perfectly.

With a Simple Salad

• A light green salad dressed with vinaigrette offers a fresh contrast to the hearty cabbage rolls, enhancing your dining experience.

How to Perfect German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen)

Perfecting your German stuffed cabbage rolls takes practice and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve delicious results every time.

• Choose the right cabbage: Opt for a large head of green cabbage; it will provide tender leaves that are easier to roll.
• Don’t skip boiling: Boiling the cabbage leaves briefly makes them pliable and prevents tearing when rolling.
• Mix filling thoroughly: Ensure that all filling ingredients are well combined for consistent flavor throughout each roll.
• Seal securely: Tightly roll and secure each cabbage leaf to prevent them from unraveling during cooking.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste your filling before rolling; adjust salt, pepper, and spices according to your preference.
• Allow resting time: Let the cooked rolls sit for a few minutes before serving; this helps meld flavors together.

Best Side Dishes for German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen)

When serving German stuffed cabbage rolls, consider pairing them with these side dishes that complement their flavors beautifully.

1. Boiled Potatoes
   Simple boiled potatoes add substance and soak up any leftover sauce for an enjoyable meal.
2. German Potato Salad
   Warm potato salad made with vinegar adds zest and freshness that contrasts nicely with rich flavors.
3. Roasted Vegetables
   A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables provides caramelized sweetness that enhances the dish’s overall appeal.
4. Caramelized Onions
   Sweet caramelized onions add depth of flavor and a touch of sweetness that pairs well with the savory rolls.
5. Braised Red Cabbage
   This classic German side is slightly sweet and tangy, providing balance against the hearty Kohlrouladen.
6. Cucumber Salad
   A light cucumber salad dressed in vinegar is refreshing and brightens up the plate with its crisp texture.
7. Rösti (Potato Cakes)
   Crispy potato cakes add crunch and another layer of flavor that complements the soft texture of cabbage rolls.
8. Grilled Corn on the Cob
   Sweet grilled corn provides a fun pop of flavor and color on your plate, making it perfect for summer meals.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen), it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to keep in mind.

• Bold preparation: Not soaking the bread roll properly can lead to a dry filling. Make sure it is well-soaked for a moist texture.
• Bold cabbage handling: Skipping the boiling step for the cabbage leaves can result in tough rolls. Always soften them before rolling.
• Bold seasoning oversight: Under-seasoning the filling can make your rolls bland. Taste and adjust seasonings before assembling.
• Bold cooking method: Cooking rolls too quickly at high heat may burn them. Use medium-low heat to allow even cooking throughout.
• Bold sauce thickening: Neglecting to thicken the sauce can leave it watery. Be sure to whisk cornstarch with some of the broth first for best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Kohlrouladen in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen)

• Freeze Kohlrouladen in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• They can be stored for up to 3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen)

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place rolls in a baking dish with some broth and cover with foil. Heat for about 25 minutes.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and reheat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
• Stovetop: In a skillet, add a little broth and gently heat over medium-low until warm, turning occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen), check these FAQs!

How do I prepare the cabbage leaves?

To prepare cabbage leaves, boil them briefly in salted water until softened, then cool and remove from the head.

Can I use different meats in my Kohlrouladen?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with ground turkey or lamb as alternatives to beef for different flavors.

What are good side dishes for German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen)?

Mashed potatoes, boiled potatoes, or Spätzle pair beautifully with these rolls and soak up the delicious sauce.

How long do leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for 3 months.

Final Thoughts

German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen) are not only comforting but also versatile. You can customize them by adding different herbs or spices based on your preferences. Try this recipe today and enjoy a hearty meal that brings warmth and flavor to your table!

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German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Kohlrouladen)

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• Author: Amelia
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4 people 1x

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Description

Indulge in the heartwarming comfort of German Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, or Kohlrouladen. This delightful dish features tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a savory ground beef filling, simmered to perfection in a creamy broth. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners, these rolls are not only delicious but also easy to prepare. The combination of spices and creamy sauce elevates each bite, making them a true standout at your table. Serve alongside mashed potatoes or Spätzle for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 large head green cabbage
• 1 pound ground beef (85% lean)
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 1 crusty white roll
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika powder
• 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
• 500 milliliters beef broth
• 200 milliliters heavy cream
• Cornstarch (to thicken the sauce)

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Instructions

1. Soak the white roll in water and set aside.
2. Rinse the cabbage and remove 8 leaves by cutting at the base. Boil them for 2 minutes until softened.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef with diced onion, soaked roll (squeezed dry), egg, and seasonings; knead until mixed.
4. Fill each cabbage leaf with beef mixture, rolling tightly from the stem end while tucking in the sides.
5. Sauté rolls seam-side down in olive oil until browned. Pour in beef broth, cover, and simmer on low for 30 minutes.
6. Remove rolls; mix heavy cream with cornstarch for thickening and stir into the remaining broth to create your sauce.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: German

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 stuffed cabbage roll (approximately 150g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 25g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 70mg