Golabki stuffed cabbage rolls –Experience the delightful flavors of Poland with this classic dish: Gołąbki, or Polish Stuffed Cabbage Rolls. This comforting meal, wrapped in tender cabbage leaves and baked in a rich tomato sauce, is a true embodiment of home-cooked love. Below, you will find a detailed recipe to recreate this delicious dish in your own kitchen.
Gołąbki: Polish Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Tomato Sauce
Gołąbki, often served during family gatherings and festive occasions, is not only a dish popular in Poland but also cherished by many around the world. The combination of seasoned meat and rice, wrapped in cabbage leaves and baked until perfection, makes it a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 pound ground beef or pork (or a combination)
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (15 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Begin by bringing a large pot of water to boil. Carefully remove the core from the cabbage and place the head in the boiling water. Blanch the cabbage for about 2-3 minutes, or until the leaves become tender. Remove the cabbage and let it cool.
- While the cabbage cools, prepare the filling. In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent. Then, combine the ground meat, cooked rice, sautéed onions, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly until well blended.
- Once the cabbage leaves have cooled, carefully peel off 10-12 leaves. Place a leaf on a clean surface, spoon a generous amount of the meat filling at the base of the leaf, and fold in the sides before rolling it up tightly. Secure the roll with a toothpick if needed.
- In a large baking dish, spread a layer of tomato sauce across the bottom. Arrange the stuffed cabbage rolls in the dish, seam side down, and cover the rolls with the remaining crushed tomatoes and a bit of tomato sauce.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 1 hour. Remove the foil for the last 15 minutes of cooking to allow the top to caramelize slightly.
- Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it sit for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy your delicious homemade Gołąbki!
Indulge in this comforting meal with your loved ones and celebrate the rich tradition of Polish cuisine.