Traditional Polish Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Gołąbki) 🍽️

If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty dish packed with traditional European flavors, Polish Stuffed Cabbage Rolls, known as Gołąbki, are the perfect choice. Tender cabbage leaves are filled with a savory mixture of meat and rice, then slowly cooked in a rich tomato sauce until perfectly tender.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

* 1 large head of green cabbage

* 500 g (1 lb) ground beef, or a mix of beef and pork

* 1 cup cooked rice (slightly undercooked)

* 1 medium onion, finely chopped

* 1 egg

* 1 tsp salt

* ½ tsp black pepper

* 1 tsp paprika (optional)

For the Tomato Sauce:

* 2 cups tomato sauce

* 1 tbsp tomato paste

* 1 cup beef broth or water

* 1 tsp sugar

* Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.

2. Place the whole cabbage head into the boiling water for 5–7 minutes, or until the outer leaves become soft and pliable.

3. Carefully remove the leaves and set them aside to cool.

Step 2: Make the Filling

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground meat, rice, onion, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika.

2. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.

Step 3: Roll the Cabbage

1. Place a portion of the filling in the center of each cabbage leaf.

2. Fold the sides inward and roll tightly to form neat cabbage rolls.

Step 4: Cook the Rolls

1. Arrange the cabbage rolls in a deep pot or Dutch oven.

2. Mix all sauce ingredients together and pour over the rolls.

3. Cover and simmer on low heat for 60–90 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the filling is fully cooked.

Pro Tips

✔ Use short-grain rice for a softer, more authentic texture.

✔ Add a clove of minced garlic to the filling for extra flavor.

✔ These cabbage rolls taste even better the next day after absorbing the sauce.

✔ Serve with mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or a side salad.

Nutrition Information (Approximate Per Serving)

* Calories: 320

* Protein: 22g

* Carbohydrates: 24g

* Fat: 15g

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Traditional Polish cabbage rolls are the ultimate comfort food—simple, satisfying, and packed with rich homemade flavor. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or special occasions.