Polish Comfort: Golabki (Stuffed Cabbage Rolls)
Golabki, also known as Polish stuffed cabbage, is a warm and heartfelt dish that brings together tender cabbage leaves enveloping a savory mixture of meats and rice. This recipe celebrates the comforting, home-cooked essence of Eastern European cuisine, showcasing how simple ingredients can create a satisfying meal rich in flavor and nutrition. Whether served on a chilly evening or at a family gathering, Golabki is sure to become a beloved staple around your table, reminding you of the joys of gathering with loved ones over hearty dishes. Each bite is a blend of textures and tastes, making it an enduring symbol of comfort food across generations.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
Cabbage
1 large head (cored)
Canola oil
2 teaspoons (for sautéing)
Onion
1/2 cup (chopped)
Ground beef
1.5 lbs (fresh)
Ground pork
0.5 lb (fresh)
Brown rice
2 cups (cooked)
Egg
1 (beaten)
Condensed tomato soup
2 (10.5 ounce) cans (for sauce)
Water
2.5 cups (for sauce)
Sea salt
1/4 teaspoon (to taste)
Pepper
1/8 teaspoon (to taste)
Instructions
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Polish Golabki?
Golabki is a traditional Polish dish consisting of tender cabbage leaves stuffed with a savory mixture of meat and rice, often topped with a tomato-based sauce.
What meats are used in this stuffed cabbage recipe?
This recipe uses a combination of 1.5 lbs of fresh ground beef and 0.5 lb of fresh ground pork.
What type of rice is recommended for Golabki?
This recipe specifies using 2 cups of cooked brown rice for added nutrition and texture.
How is the cabbage prepared for the rolls?
A large head of cabbage should be cored before separating the leaves to be used for rolling the meat mixture.
What ingredients are in the Golabki sauce?
The sauce is made from two 10.5-ounce cans of condensed tomato soup mixed with 2.5 cups of water.
Is an egg used in the meat filling?
Yes, one beaten egg is included in the mixture to help bind the meat and rice together.
What kind of oil should I use for sautéing the onions?
The recipe calls for 2 teaspoons of canola oil to sauté the chopped onions.
How much onion is needed for the recipe?
You will need 1/2 cup of chopped onion.
What are the primary seasonings used in this dish?
The dish is seasoned simply with 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt and 1/8 teaspoon of pepper, or to taste.
Is Golabki considered a healthy meal?
Yes, it is considered a healthy and hearty meal as it provides a balance of protein, vegetables, and complex carbohydrates from the brown rice.
What is the cultural origin of stuffed cabbage rolls?
While variants exist globally, Golabki is a staple of Polish and Eastern European cuisine.
Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?
While the recipe suggests brown rice for its texture and health benefits, white rice is a common traditional substitute.
How many cans of tomato soup are required?
The recipe requires two 10.5-ounce cans of condensed tomato soup.
Should the rice be cooked before mixing it with the meat?
Yes, the recipe specifies that the 2 cups of brown rice should be cooked prior to mixing.
What does the word 'Golabki' mean?
The term 'Golabki' is Polish and literally translates to 'little pigeons,' referring to the shape of the cabbage rolls.
Is ground pork necessary for this recipe?
While beef provides the bulk of the protein, the ground pork adds essential moisture and flavor to the filling.
How many total ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 11 ingredients in total for this Polish comfort dish.
What is the texture of a well-cooked Golabki?
A well-cooked Golabki features tender, soft cabbage leaves that easily yield to a fork, surrounding a savory, moist meat filling.
Can I use sea salt instead of table salt?
Yes, the recipe specifically lists 1/4 teaspoon of sea salt.
Is this a good recipe for family gatherings?
Absolutely, Golabki is a traditional family-style meal that is often served at large gatherings and celebrations.
How do I ensure the cabbage leaves don't break?
Coring the cabbage and briefly blanching the leaves in hot water makes them pliable and easier to roll without tearing.
What is the role of the tomato soup in the sauce?
The condensed tomato soup provides a sweet and tangy base that thickens into a rich sauce as the cabbage rolls simmer.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, Golabki often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together.
Is this recipe considered comfort food?
Yes, it is described as a warm and heartfelt dish that serves as an enduring symbol of comfort food.
What size cabbage head is needed?
A large head of cabbage is recommended to ensure you have enough large leaves for stuffing.
Can I freeze leftovers of these cabbage rolls?
Yes, stuffed cabbage rolls freeze very well, especially when stored in their sauce.
Is ground turkey a possible substitute for beef?
While not traditional for this specific recipe, ground turkey can be used as a leaner substitute for the beef or pork.
How much water is mixed with the tomato soup?
You should mix 2.5 cups of water with the condensed tomato soup.
Does this recipe include any tags for categorization?
Yes, it is tagged under Polish cuisine, comfort food, stuffed cabbage, and traditional European dishes.
What is the prep for the ground beef and pork?
The recipe suggests using fresh ground beef and fresh ground pork for the best flavor and quality.