Oma’s Old-Fashioned Rouladen

traditional

Back in the 40s and 50s, when my German mother-in-law (aka “Oma”) was a young girl in Northern German, rouladen was her family’s traditional Christmas dinner.

Now, this classic meal is a common Sunday supper all over Germany, but back then, when money was tight, Rouladen was a special treat served only once a year.

What is Rouladen?  Chuck roast is wrapped around bacon, onion and spices then simmered in pan gravy for hours until it becomes tender and flavorful.  This recipe has been passed down through Oma’s family for generations.  Oma learned it from her late mother who learned it from hers, etc. etc.  Since Oma has been visiting, we decided to capture this recipe for our official family record, but you can enjoy it as well.

So I present to you Oma’s Old-Fashioned Rouladen.

Oma’s Old-Fashioned Rouladen

  • 10 strips of chuck roast cut thin, approximately 3 3/4 pounds
  • 15-20 strips of bacon
  • yellow mustard
  • sea salt
  • freshly ground pepper
  • 1 large onion, cut in half and sliced very thin
  • vegetable oil
  • water, divided
  • sour cream, optional
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for a gluten-free option)

Serves 8-10.

ROLLING

Take a strip of chuck roast.  It should be about 1/4 inch thick.  If it is too thick, pound it down to the correct thickness.  Spread the meat with a thin layer of mustard, then sprinkle with pepper and salt (go easy on the salt).  Put a strip or two of bacon on the meat.  This depends on how wide your meat is.  You don’t want the bacon to stick out the side.  Cover that with a thin layer of sliced onions.

Starting at the small end, roll the meat with its contents into a tight cylinder.  Using kitchen twine (or in Oma’s case, sewing thread), tie this bundle tightly.

BROWNING

Put about 2-3 tablespoons of oil in the bottom of a heavy sauté pan.  When the oil is hot, add the rouladen, and cook, turning as necessary, until it is very brown on all sides.  This takes about 22-28 minutes.  When the meat is very very brown all over, place them in an oven.

Heat about 2 cups of water in small saucepan until hot.  Pour the water into the sauté pan that you used to brown the rouladen and scrape up the drippings.  Eventually, this will be the gravy.  Pour this sauce over the meat in the dutch oven.  If you didn’t get everything from the pan, add a little more water, scrape again and pour that over the meat.  Oma says this is very important.  Add enough water so that it covers about 2/3 of the meat.

SIMMERING

Bring to a boil on the stove top, then reduce heat, cover and simmer very low for 1 1/2 hours.  After the meat is tender, remove it to a plate covered with foil to stay warm.

GRAVY

Whisk together 1/4 cups flour and 1/4 cup water until smooth.  This mixture will be the consistency of cream.  Turn the heat off on the pot and add about 1/2 this mixture to the pan juices whisking until it is incorporated.  Then turn the heat back on and simmer until it thickens.  Just before serving, mix in approximately 1/4 cup of sour cream (optional).  Taste for seasoning.

Guten Appetit!

https://www.livinthepielife.com/2011/02/omas-old-fashioned-rouladen/

You Only Live Once

South Africa is just one of the most beautiful jewels. From the north to the south, put on your adventure shoes, sleep over at breathtaking places and make each adventure a memorable one.

When taking an African Safari South Africa tourism has a secret weapon, and it’s the Kruger National Park with its intricate network of private game reserves or just make time and take the beautiful Mother City by its horns. (Cape Town)

Some interesting stuff to put on your to-do list:

WINE TASTING IN A “CAVE” AT KLEIN ROOSBOOM BOUTIQUE WINERY

Take a scenic Sunday drive along the Tygerberg Valley Road to Klein Roosboom and opt to have your tasting in one of the “caves”. Apart from the fact that the wines really are magnificent, you’ll get to experience them in a truly unique way.

ZIP AROUND CHAPMAN’S PEAK IN A CLASSIC (OPEN-TOP) SPORTS CAR

It’s the stuff that memories (and killer Instagram opportunities) are made of. Nothing beats the feeling of the wind through your hair and the sun on your face as you cruise along the road in a cool car with breathtaking views along the way.

YOGA ON A TIDAL POOL WITH SUP YOGA

The outdoor setting, gently lapping water, and endless ocean views enhance the overall experience. Plus, you get to go for a refreshing swim while you’re at it (several, in fact, depending on how often you lose balance).

RIDE A STEAM TRAIN TO CERES

The old beauty passes through the picturesque Witzenberg and Michell’s Passes en route to Demeter Station in Ceres, allowing passengers to enjoy the sights from the comfort of the spacious Lounge Cars, which were restored and refurbished in preparation for the 70-year-old train’s return to the rails in 2015.

HOP ABOARD THE FRANSCHHOEK WINE TRAM

You’ll get a glimpse into 300 years’ worth of rich history, while you sip in the views (and vino, naturally!)

All of Africa’s iconic safari species makes Kruger one of the world’s greatest wildlife-watching destinations.

Bush Walks:  Nothing can possibly beat the heart-stopping excitement of tracking rhino, elephant, and lion on foot through the heat of the bush.

Bird watching:  Bird lovers can look forward to seeing more than 400 bird species in their natural habitat.

Bush drives and nature walks:  Guided bush drives and nature walks get you up close and personal with the majesty that is the Kruger National Park.

Hot Air Ballooning and Helicopter Flights:  For the adventurous at heart looking for a unique way to experience South Africa’s most beautiful countryside, you can enjoy the majesty of the Kruger National Park through hot air ballooning and helicopter flights.

These are only a few of the many exciting activities that will keep you thoroughly entertained during your stay at the Kruger National Park.

Enjoy life and live the journey!

Sources:

https://insideguide.co.za/cape-town/unusual-things-to-do-in-cape-town/

https://lukimbi.com/2015/05/14/kruger-national-park-game-reserves/

Photographic Safari

photographers

The Kruger National Park is legendary, known throughout the world for its diversity of species and dramatic landscapes.

With easy access to the park and a vast selection of accommodations and regions to choose from the Kruger Park is a photographers dream.

The diversity of habitats in the park, from open savannas to lush riverine forests, allows photographers the benefit of selecting preferred landscapes for their photographs. The animals in the park have adapted to the presence of vehicles which gives photographers many opportunities to get that special shot.

Equipment:

The Kruger Park is the ideal place for amateur photographers and professionals alike and any size and makes of equipment will bring results. In fact, it is not uncommon to see people using their cellphones to take pictures, so close are the animals at times. For the person wanting the best all-around lens for the park then a 300mm lens is recommended to get those just out of reach images but the Kruger is truly the ultimate park for everyone when it comes to taking wildlife pictures.

Stunning Scenery

There are a number of dramatic places in the park to stop and take photographs, including somewhere alighting from the vehicle is allowed. This adds to the attraction of Kruger as a great photographic destination. A network of roads, known as drives, traverse the park and all provide something special for the photographer. Wooded savannahs open into grassland and scenic forest roads lead to rivers, with new delights at every turn.

On guided game drives, your safari guide will stop at scenic spots for you to take photos. You will also get a chance to take some amazing wildlife photos.

Do’s and Dont’s of Photography in Kruger

  • Respect the environment and wildlife
  • Respect other patrons in the park
  • Take only pictures and leave only memories
  • Only alight at designated places
  • Obey the Park rules – they are there for a reason

http://www.krugerpark.co.za/Kruger_Park_Travel_Advisory-travel/photography-kruger-national-park.html

 

Grilled Cheese Sandwich

sandwich

Bread, butter and Cheddar cheese

Here’s a way to make this classic sandwich in a nonstick pan:

Ingredients

Directions

Preheat skillet over medium heat. Generously butter one side of a slice of bread. Place bread butter-side-down onto skillet bottom and add 1 slice of cheese. Butter a second slice of bread on one side and place butter-side-up on top of sandwich. Grill until lightly browned and flip over; continue grilling until cheese is melted. Repeat with remaining 2 slices of bread, butter and slice of cheese.

Tip:

Aluminum foil can be used to keep food moist, cook it evenly, and make clean-up easier.

KAROO CUISINE

eating

Eating and drinking in the Karoo is a culinary experience not to be missed.

The Karoo is a large area with many towns! The region offers a variety of traditional and wholesome Karoo dining experiences to suit all tastes and budgets! From the deliciously diverse flavors of South Africa’s indigenous and multi-cultural rainbow cuisine to culinary specialties from all over the world.

The Karoo is well known for its Lamb.

It is believed that Karoo lamb is tastier and more flavorsome than lamb from other regions, the reason being the different types of shrubbery which the sheep in this region feed on. The fragrant bushes in the Karoo impart an unmistakable ‘herbiness’ to the lamb. Here, the sheep roam freely on farms eating the Karoo vegetation to their heart’s content!

Braaivleis (BBQ): The word braaivleis is Afrikaans for “roasted meat.” The word braai (pronounced “bry”, rhyming with the word “cry”; plural braais) is Afrikaans for “barbecue” or “roast” and is a social custom in South Africa, Namibia, Zimbabwe, and Zambia. It originated with the Afrikaner people but has since been adopted by South Africans of many ethnic backgrounds.

The word vleis are Afrikaans for “meat”.

Bobotie: Bobotie, a staple of South African cuisine. It is believed to have originated with the Dutch and gets its name from the Indonesian word “Bobotok”. Bobotie has been part of the South African cuisine since about the 27th century. Back then it was made mainly with mutton and pork which were combined.

Nowadays it is usually made using either beef or lamb mince. Dried fruits such as raisins and apricots can also be added. Flavored with mild curry, the mince is then topped with a milk and egg mixture and baked in the oven. Usually served with yellow rice with raisins.

http://www.south-africa-info.co.za/country/article/279/karoo-cuisine

Northern Cape

The Northern Cape is South Africa’s largest province and a must-see destination.

Exploring a land of ancient deserts, deep canyons, winding rivers and unique flora, the Northern Cape promises an unsurpassed experience.

The Northern Cape is all about wide open spaces, a magnificent coastline and a number of unequaled National Parks offering the tourist a very different experience of the South African experience.  Northern Cape’s sheer size, clear skies, elaborate sunsets, dazzling starry nights and incredible silence is mesmerizing.

The ideal habitat for some of the country’s most beautiful and exciting predators and prey. Experience the solitude of the landscapes, the heat of the sun on your shoulders as you explore the game reserves and parks of this fascinating part of South Africa.

The Northern Cape has always been a family-friendly destination and the region has a distinct and rugged natural beauty.

The natural beauty of the Northern Cape, is enhanced by its enigmatic wildlife. From the “Small Five” to the Big Five, watching wild animals at close range is something truly unforgettable.

Just thinking of the Karoo and its endless wilderness plateau, unique flat-topped koppies, warm hospitality, wide open spaces and mysteries.

Each region will capture the imaginations of those who dare to explore its rugged mountains, endless flatlands and undulating dunes. There’s an outdoor adventure activity or experience for everyone.

Magical moments

Karreekloof offers the inner beauty of the Karoo, breathtaking scenery from sunrise to sunset.

A star night that lets you get lost in another world and forgetting about the problems of yesterday and today. Breathe with the feeling of relief and relax for a while.

For the adventure-loving people who is crazy about water, the Orange River’s kayak rides can only be worthwhile or even take a trip down memory lane with white water river rafting.

Historical history from Magersfontein to Prieska will let your whole body fill up with goosebumps. Indulge your lifestyle for a moment, understand nature, experience it and you’ll never regret it one day. For that more social kind of feeling and tranquility of spirit, a boat on the river will work wonders, good company and the simplicity of the day as the host.

Attraction to the wildlife comes from inner excitement, wanting to experience and to see more.  Come and feel the power of nature, admire the birds, smell the different flavors of plant life and let the animal kingdom entertain you.

The challenge is easy.  Grab your bag, put both feet outside your front door, get in your car and experience all these unforgettable feelings.

“If you truly love nature, you’ll find beauty everywhere” – Van Gogh –

Why good accommodation

For most of the people, the main purpose of holidays is to enjoy extravagant time with their family and friends.

The foremost advantage that you will get while accommodating at Karreekloof is the warm welcoming faces of the staff members.

Comfortable accommodation facilities play a very important role in popularizing any tourist destination. If a person, who is quite far away from home, gets to enjoy the same facilities and comforts as he enjoys at his home, then he is bound to become attached to the place.

The accommodation provides safety for all those travelers who are unaware of new places.

When booking holiday accommodation, almost every single person just wants the pleasure and relaxation he or she imagine they will have. Comfortable beds, good food and one hell of a good experience.  These are the reasons why unlimited stories must be told, memories must live on and coming back for more is a must on your new year’s list!

Luxury must be comfortable, otherwise, it is not luxury.

If in any doubt, don’t be.  Put your mind at ease, Karreekloof has the luxury to let you feel more than comfortable. Come and kick your shoes off, make a toast, relax and gaze at the beautiful stars.

Karreekloof awaits you!

Safari Stories

To wake up in the morning hearing no noisy car alarms or the honking of an annoying motor vehicle is a song in my ears!

What’s better than to wake up in the bush to the chorus of a new day. The birds are tuning their loud instruments for the morning show. The bush orchestra is ready to play their daily tune of spectacular music.

“Nowhere on earth (and possibly space either) can the senses as well as the emotions wallow in a combination of stimulate such as are found in the African bush. -Peter Hathaway-

The Story of an African Farm by Olive Schreiner makes you feel that a holiday is just as good as an African Safari.

‘The full African moon poured down its light from the blue sky into the wide, lonely plain. The dry, sandy earth, with its coating of stunted ‘karroo’ bushes a few inches high, the low hills that skirted the plain, the milk-bushes with their long finger-like leaves, all were touched by a weird and an almost oppressive beauty as they lay in the white light.

In one spot only was the solemn monotony of the plain broken. Near the center, a small solitary ‘kopje’ rose. Alone it lay there, a heap of round iron-stones piled one upon another, as over some giant’s grave. Here and there a few tufts of grass or small succulent plants had sprung up among its stones, and on the very summit a clump of prickly-pears lifted their thorny arms, and reflected, as from mirrors, the moonlight on their broad fleshy leaves.’

An African Safari, take the joyride and smell the fresh air.

Nothing tops a South African safari

Heading out on safari is fun!

You’ll meet new people, witness some incredible animal moments. With so much to see and do, you won’t have a chance to be bored.

The safari regions are very much pollution-free and well-preserved, which means that the air is crisp and the sky is clear at night to gaze at the stars. From African sunsets to star gazing, good wine, potjiekos, herds of elephants, and dry savannah; to early-morning jeep rides and luxurious chalets, nothing beats a South African safari.

The reason to visit Africa and journeying out on safari is a unique experience.  Walk on the wild side, South Africa is host to all the ‘wild’ animals that you knew from your childhood. You get to see spectacular landscapes and the climate of South Africa has a predominantly semi-arid climate with sunny days and cool nights.

Support conservation efforts, interact with the knowledgeable guides and rangers and have fun!

It’s always WINE o’clock. The wine culture of South Africa is world-renowned. We have several wine routes, wine festivals, wine estates and wine tasting to tempt the connoisseur.  Supporting local communities and giving you a chance to relax in a new environment.

Laying tracks for luxury, we’ve got one of the best luxury train trips in the world. The Blue Train travels about 1 600 kilometers between Cape Town and Pretoria. A unique experience every time.

Sometimes you don’t need roads.  The off-road and 4×4 culture in South Africa is huge. Even though the general road infrastructure is really great, there are many 4×4 trails for any off-road lover. Even some national or nature parks are best explored with a 4×4 vehicle with great photography opportunities.

Don’t forget the glorious food. South Africa offers a huge variety when it comes to cuisine. Our food culture has an emerging emphasis on local, handmade and organically grown produce.

The perfect way to end a day in the warm sun spotting animals is to lie back, soak in the peacefulness, reflect, listen to nothing but the crickets chirping in the distance, and stare at the gleaming milky way. All you’ll need is a blanket, a hot flask of cocoa, binoculars to reveal the millions of stars, and your favorite person by your side.

Come and enjoy a wild journey on an African Safari!