Save Tender, savory rolls inspired by classic German Rouladen, using budget-friendly beef alternatives for a delicious and economical twist—crispy outside, juicy inside, and packed with traditional flavors.
I enjoy making these rolls because they bring traditional German flavors in a quick and economical way, perfect for a family dinner.
Ingredients
- Beef Substitute: 500 g thinly sliced beef-style seitan or soy-based meat alternative, 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- Filling: 4 slices smoked deli ham (or plant-based ham), 4 small dill pickles quartered lengthwise, 1 medium onion thinly sliced, 2 tbsp German or Dijon mustard, Salt and pepper to taste
- Gravy (optional): 1 tbsp vegetable oil, 1 tbsp flour, 250 ml beef-style vegetable broth, 1 tsp tomato paste, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce (vegan if needed), Salt and pepper to taste
- For Serving: Chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat:
- Preheat the air fryer to 180°C (350°F).
- Prepare Rolls:
- Lay out the seitan or soy slices on a board. Spread each with mustard. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Add Filling:
- Layer a slice of ham, a few onion slices, and a pickle quarter onto each slice.
- Roll Up:
- Roll up tightly and secure with toothpicks or kitchen twine.
- Brush Oil:
- Brush or spray the rolls lightly with vegetable oil.
- Cook:
- Place the rolls in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Cook for 15-18 minutes, turning once, until golden and heated through.
- Make Gravy (Optional):
- While rolls cook, heat oil in a saucepan and stir in flour. Cook 1 minute, whisk in broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire. Simmer until thickened about 3 to 4 minutes. Season to taste.
- Serve:
- Remove toothpicks or twine from rolls. Serve hot, drizzled with gravy and sprinkled with parsley if desired.
Save This recipe always brings my family together around the table, enjoying traditional German comfort food with a modern twist.
Required Tools
Air fryer, cutting board and knife, toothpicks or kitchen twine, small saucepan (for gravy, optional), tongs
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (seitan flour), soy (if using soy-based meat), and potentially dairy from deli ham. Mustard and Worcestershire sauce may contain allergens; check labels carefully.
Nutritional Information
Per serving without gravy: 210 Calories, 6 g Total Fat, 18 g Carbohydrates, 21 g Protein.
Save Enjoy these flavorful rouladen rolls fresh from the air fryer for the best texture and taste.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different meat alternative for rouladen?
Yes, thinly sliced marinated tofu or eggplant slices can be excellent substitutes, offering varied textures and flavors.
- → How do I prevent rouladen rolls from unrolling during cooking?
Secure the rolls tightly with toothpicks or kitchen twine before air frying to maintain their shape.
- → Is the gravy necessary for serving?
The gravy adds moisture and depth but the rouladen rolls are flavorful and enjoyable even without it.
- → What side dishes pair well with these rouladen rolls?
Traditional options include mashed potatoes, braised red cabbage, or spaetzle to complement the savory flavors.
- → How long should I cook the rouladen in the air fryer?
Cook at 180°C (350°F) for 15-18 minutes, turning once halfway through to achieve a golden, crispy exterior.