Grandma’s Polish Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Why Make This Recipe

Grandma’s Golumpki, or stuffed Polish cabbage rolls, is a beloved recipe that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Made with savory ground meat, rice, and wrapped in tender cabbage leaves, these rolls are hearty and satisfying. This dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. People of all ages love this classic recipe, making it a fantastic choice for both special occasions and everyday meals.

How to Make Grandma’s Golumpki

Ingredients

  • 1 large head of cabbage
  • 1 lb ground beef
  • 1 lb ground pork
  • 1 cup rice, cooked
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh dill for garnish

Directions

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Boil the cabbage in a large pot of water for about 5 minutes, just until the leaves start to soften. Remove the leaves and set them aside.
  3. In a skillet, sauté the onions and garlic until softened.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, cooked rice, sautéed onions and garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  5. Take a cabbage leaf, place a spoonful of the meat mixture at the base, and roll it up, tucking in the sides.
  6. Place the rolls seam-side down in a baking dish.
  7. Pour the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes over the rolls.
  8. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for about 1.5 hours.
  9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh dill.

How to Serve Grandma’s Golumpki

Serve Grandma’s Golumpki hot from the oven, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh dill. Pair it with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal. It’s also delightful with a dollop of sour cream on the side, which adds a creamy tang that complements the flavors beautifully.

How to Store Grandma’s Golumpki

To store leftover Golumpki, let them cool completely and then place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the rolls in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Tips to Make Grandma’s Golumpki

  • Use a mix of ground beef and pork for extra flavor and richness.
  • Make sure to boil the cabbage long enough to soften the leaves, but don’t overcook them.
  • Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to the meat mixture for a personal touch.

Variation

You can customize Grandma’s Golumpki by using quinoa or cauliflower rice instead of traditional rice for a different texture or to make it gluten-free. Some people also add spices like cumin or oregano to change the flavor profile.

FAQs

Q: Can I make Golumpki ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare them a day in advance and keep them in the fridge until you are ready to bake.

Q: What can I serve with Golumpki?
A: Golumpki pairs well with mashed potatoes, a side salad, or crusty bread.

Q: Can I use different types of meat?
A: Absolutely! You can mix in ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option, or even use a meat substitute for a vegetarian version.

Delicious homemade Polish stuffed cabbage rolls filled with meat and rice

Grandma's Golumpki

Savory stuffed Polish cabbage rolls made with ground meats, rice, and served with a delicious tomato sauce, perfect for comforting family meals.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: Polish
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 large head cabbage Fresh cabbage leaves are needed for wrapping.
  • 1 lb ground beef Provides a hearty flavor.
  • 1 lb ground pork Adds richness to the filling.
  • 1 cup rice, cooked Use any type of rice you prefer.
  • 1 onion, chopped Chopped onion will enhance the flavor.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced Minced garlic for added aroma.
  • 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce To pour over the rolls before baking.
  • 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes Adds extra moisture and flavor.
  • 1 tsp paprika For additional depth of flavor.
  • Salt and pepper to taste Season to preference.
  • Fresh dill for garnish Optional, adds freshness when serving.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Boil the cabbage in a large pot of water for about 5 minutes, just until the leaves start to soften. Remove the leaves and set them aside.
  3. In a skillet, sauté the onions and garlic until softened.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the ground beef, ground pork, cooked rice, sautéed onions and garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
Assembly
  1. Take a cabbage leaf, place a spoonful of the meat mixture at the base, and roll it up, tucking in the sides.
  2. Place the rolls seam-side down in a baking dish.
Cooking
  1. Pour the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes over the rolls.
  2. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for about 1.5 hours.
  3. Serve hot, garnished with fresh dill.

Notes

To store leftover Golumpki, let them cool completely and then place them in an airtight container. They can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, freeze the rolls in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Use a mix of ground beef and pork for extra flavor and richness, and feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to the meat mixture for a personal touch.

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating