Polish Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, known as Gołąbki, are a classic comfort food made with tender cabbage leaves wrapped around a filling of seasoned ground meat and rice, then baked in a rich tomato sauce. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners or any special occasion. It’s packed with flavor and a true taste of tradition.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes
- Variations
- Serving Suggestions
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 pound ground pork
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
Tomato Sauce
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Remove the core from the cabbage and carefully place the whole cabbage head into the boiling water. Boil for 8-10 minutes, gently peeling away the outer leaves with tongs as they become tender. Set the tender leaves aside and continue until you have about 12-14 large leaves.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground pork, ground beef, cooked rice, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls
Lay a cabbage leaf on a flat surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture in the center of the leaf. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll up from the bottom to create a tight roll. Repeat with the remaining leaves and filling.
Step 4: Make the Tomato Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato paste, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Bake the Cabbage Rolls
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a large baking dish, spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom. Arrange the cabbage rolls seam-side down in the baking dish. Pour the remaining tomato sauce over the rolls, ensuring they are covered.
Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the cabbage is tender and the meat is cooked through.
Step 6: Serve
Serve the Polish Stuffed Cabbage Rolls hot, with a generous spoonful of tomato sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Cook Notes
- Cabbage Tip: If the cabbage leaves are difficult to peel, you can return the cabbage to the boiling water for another minute or two to soften them further.
- Filling: Make sure the filling is tightly packed in each cabbage leaf to prevent it from falling apart during cooking.
- Tomato Sauce Consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a bit more chicken broth or water to thin it out.
Variations
1. Vegetarian Stuffed Cabbage Rolls
Replace the meat with a mixture of cooked lentils, mushrooms, and rice for a delicious vegetarian version.
2. Spicy Cabbage Rolls
Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the meat mixture and 1 diced jalapeño to the tomato sauce for some extra heat.
3. Sauerkraut Variation
Layer the cabbage rolls with sauerkraut before adding the tomato sauce for a tangy flavor twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Mashed Potatoes: Serve with mashed potatoes for a comforting side that pairs well with the tomato sauce.
- Rye Bread: Offer rye bread on the side to soak up the rich sauce.
- Side Salad: Add a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast to the hearty rolls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Make These Cabbage Rolls Ahead of Time?
Yes! Polish Stuffed Cabbage Rolls can be assembled up to 1 day in advance and stored in the refrigerator before baking. Simply bake when ready to serve.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover cabbage rolls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Freeze Cabbage Rolls?
Yes, these cabbage rolls freeze well. Arrange the rolls in a freezer-safe container and cover them with sauce. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Polish Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Gołąbki) are a delicious and comforting dish that showcases the hearty flavors of traditional Polish cuisine. With tender cabbage leaves, savory meat filling, and a rich tomato sauce, this dish is perfect for sharing with family and friends. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of classic comfort food!
Did you make this recipe? Share your experience in the comments below and let us know how it turned out!