Traditional Polish Golumpki (Stuffed Cabbage Rolls) Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 large head of cabbage
  • 1 1/2 lbs ground beef
  • 1/2 lb ground pork
  • 1 cup uncooked rice
  • 1 finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 egg
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 can (10.75 oz) condensed tomato soup
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
  • 1 1/2 cups tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 1 tablespoon white sugar

Steps and instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
  2. Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the head of cabbage and cook until the leaves are soft and pliable, about 10 minutes. Drain and let cool.
  3. While the cabbage is cooling, prepare your filling. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, uncooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until thoroughly combined.
  4. Once the cabbage is cool enough to handle, carefully peel off the leaves. You should have about 15-20 leaves.
  5. Take a cabbage leaf and place about 2 tablespoons of the meat mixture in the center. Fold in the sides and roll up the cabbage leaf, tucking in the ends. Repeat with the remaining cabbage leaves and meat mixture.
  6. Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls in a large baking dish.
  7. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the condensed tomato soup, diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, water, and sugar. Stir until well mixed.
  8. Pour the tomato sauce mixture over the cabbage rolls in the baking dish, making sure all the rolls are covered with sauce.
  9. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 1 hour or until the cabbage is tender and the meat is cooked through.
  10. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your homemade Golumpki.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef and ground pork with a meat substitute such as crumbled tofu or textured vegetable protein.
  • Chicken Variation: Replace the ground beef and ground pork with ground chicken for a lighter twist on the traditional recipe.
  • Italian Style: Add Italian herbs and spices such as oregano, basil, and parsley to the meat mixture and use marinara sauce instead of tomato soup.
  • Mushroom and Rice: Incorporate sautéed mushrooms into the filling mixture and add cooked wild rice for an earthy flavor.
  • Spicy Twist: Mix in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to give the dish a kick of heat.
  • Cheesy Version: Sprinkle grated cheese, such as mozzarella or cheddar, over the cabbage rolls before baking to create a cheesy topping.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Replace the regular rice with cooked quinoa or gluten-free rice blend to make the recipe gluten-free.
  • Cauliflower Rice: Use finely chopped cauliflower instead of rice for a low-carb option.
  • Asian Fusion: Add ingredients like soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil to the meat mixture and serve with a side of stir-fried vegetables.
  • Smoky Flavors: Incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle powder into the meat mixture to give it a smoky taste.

Recipe overview

Golumpki, also known as stuffed cabbage rolls, is a traditional Polish dish that is hearty, comforting, and perfect for a family dinner. Made with a flavorful mix of ground beef, pork, and rice, all wrapped in tender cabbage leaves and baked in a tangy tomato sauce, these rolls are a crowd-pleaser. This recipe might require a bit of effort and time, but the result is worth it. Follow each step carefully, and soon you'll be enjoying your own homemade Golumpki. This dish is perfect for a regular dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy the process and the delicious result!

Common questions

  1. How long does it take to cook Golumpki?
    The Golumpki needs to be baked in the oven for about 1 hour or until the cabbage is tender and the meat is cooked through.
  2. Can I use a different type of meat?
    Yes, you can substitute the ground beef and ground pork with other meats like ground turkey or chicken if preferred.
  3. Can I prepare the cabbage leaves ahead of time?
    Yes, you can boil the cabbage leaves ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to assemble and bake the Golumpki.
  4. Can I freeze Golumpki?
    Yes, you can freeze the cooked Golumpki. Make sure to cool it completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bags and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
  5. Can I use a different sauce?
    While the recipe uses a tomato-based sauce, you can experiment with different sauces such as marinara sauce or a sweet and sour sauce if you prefer.
  6. What can I serve with Golumpki?
    Golumpki can be served with mashed potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large pot - Used for boiling the cabbage leaves.
  • Baking dish - Used for arranging and baking the stuffed cabbage rolls.
  • Aluminum foil - Used to cover the baking dish while baking.
  • Mixing bowl - Used for combining the filling ingredients and the tomato sauce.
  • Saucepan - Used for heating the tomato sauce mixture, if desired.
  • Serving platter - Used for presenting the cooked Golumpki.
  • Tongs - Useful for handling the boiled cabbage leaves and transferring the stuffed cabbage rolls.
  • Spatula - Used for serving the cooked Golumpki.
  • Knife - Used for chopping onions and mincing garlic.
  • Cutting board - Used as a surface for chopping and mincing.

Origin stories

Golumpki, also known as stuffed cabbage rolls, is a beloved dish that has been at the heart of Polish cuisine for centuries. Its name, 'Golumpki', interestingly translates to 'little pigeons' in English, owing to the shape of the dish that supposedly resembles a pigeon huddled in its nest. However, the connection ends there as there are no actual pigeons in the recipe! This hearty dish emerged from the humble kitchens of Polish peasantry, where resourcefulness was key. It was an excellent way to utilize the autumn harvest of cabbage, combined with a simple filling of meat and grains, to sustain through the long and harsh winters. Over time, it has become a symbol of comfort food in Poland and beyond, gaining popularity through various adaptations in different cultures. Just like the Polish people who have showcased resilience and adaptability through history, their cherished Golumpki has journeyed through kitchens worldwide, each time emerging as a heartwarming meal wrapped in humble cabbage leaves.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.