Golumpki Soup

Golumpki Soup is a comforting and hearty dish inspired by traditional Polish stuffed cabbage rolls. This soup captures all the flavors of golumpki (gołąbki)—ground beef, rice, cabbage, and a rich tomato-based broth—without the time-consuming process of rolling each cabbage leaf. It’s an easy, one-pot meal that’s perfect for chilly nights or when you’re craving a taste of home-cooked comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easier than Traditional Golumpki – No rolling required!
• One-Pot Meal – Minimal cleanup and simple preparation.
• Hearty and Filling – Packed with protein, vegetables, and rice.
• Great for Meal Prep – Tastes even better the next day.
• Customizable – Adjust ingredients to your taste or dietary needs.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Ground beef (or ground pork)
• Onion (chopped)
• Garlic (minced)
• Green cabbage (chopped)
• Carrots (diced)
• Crushed tomatoes
• Tomato sauce
• Beef broth (or chicken broth)
• Cooked white rice (or uncooked for a heartier texture)
• Worcestershire sauce
• Paprika
• Dried thyme
• Salt and pepper
• Bay leaf
• Olive oil
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Directions

1. Brown the Meat – In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Sauté Aromatics – Add chopped onion, garlic, and carrots. Sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add Cabbage and Seasonings – Stir in chopped cabbage, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 5 minutes.
4. Simmer the Soup – Pour in crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add the bay leaf and bring to a simmer. Cover and cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Add Rice – Stir in cooked rice and let simmer for another 5 minutes. If using uncooked rice, add it earlier with the broth and let it cook until tender.
6. Taste and Adjust – Remove the bay leaf, adjust seasoning if needed, and garnish with fresh parsley.
7. Serve – Ladle into bowls and enjoy warm!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6-8
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

Variations

• Low-Carb Version: Skip the rice and use cauliflower rice instead.
• Spicy Twist: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for some heat.
• Slow Cooker Method: Brown the meat first, then add all ingredients (except cooked rice) to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours. Stir in rice before serving.
• Vegetarian Option: Use lentils or plant-based ground meat instead of beef.
• Extra Flavor: Stir in a splash of apple cider vinegar or sugar for a sweet-tangy balance.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between. Add a little broth if needed to thin it out.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey or even sausage works well as a substitute.

Should I use cooked or uncooked rice?

You can use either. Cooked rice is quicker, while uncooked rice thickens the soup as it cooks.

What’s the best type of cabbage to use?

Green cabbage is traditional, but Napa cabbage or Savoy cabbage also work.

Can I make this soup in an Instant Pot?

Yes! Brown the meat using the sauté function, then add all ingredients (except rice) and pressure cook for 10 minutes. Stir in cooked rice before serving.

Can I add potatoes instead of rice?

Absolutely! Diced potatoes make a great substitute for rice.

How do I keep the cabbage from getting too soft?

Add the cabbage halfway through cooking for a firmer texture.

What can I serve with this soup?

A slice of crusty bread, rye bread, or a side salad pairs perfectly.

How do I make this soup creamier?

Add a splash of heavy cream or sour cream for a rich, creamy version.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes! Just use a larger pot and adjust seasonings to taste.

What if my soup is too thick?

Simply add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Conclusion

Golumpki Soup is a warm, hearty, and satisfying dish that delivers all the comforting flavors of traditional Polish stuffed cabbage rolls in an easy-to-make soup. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this soup is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try and enjoy a taste of homemade comfort!

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