Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage Leaves
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Remove the core from the cabbage and carefully place the whole head in the boiling water. Boil for 8-10 minutes, gently removing outer leaves with tongs as they soften. Set aside until you have about 12-14 large leaves.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, combine ground pork, ground beef, cooked rice, onion, garlic, egg, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix well.
Step 3: Assemble the Cabbage Rolls
Lay a cabbage leaf flat. Place about 1/4 cup of the meat mixture in the center. Fold the sides over the filling, then roll up from the bottom to create a tight roll. Repeat.
Step 4: Make the Tomato Sauce
In a medium saucepan, combine crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, tomato paste, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Bake the Cabbage Rolls
Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread a thin layer of tomato sauce in a large baking dish. Arrange cabbage rolls seam-side down. Pour remaining sauce over rolls.
Cover with foil and bake for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until cabbage is tender and meat is cooked through.
Step 6: Serve
Serve hot, with extra sauce. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Cook’s Notes
- Cabbage Tip: If leaves are tough, boil a minute or two longer.
- Filling: Pack filling tightly to prevent it from falling apart.
- Sauce Consistency: Add more broth or water if the sauce is too thick.
Variations
Vegetarian Gołąbki
Replace meat with cooked lentils, mushrooms, and rice.
Spicy Gołąbki
Add 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper to the filling and 1 diced jalapeño to the sauce.
Sauerkraut Gołąbki
Layer sauerkraut with the cabbage rolls before adding the sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- Mashed potatoes
- Rye bread
- Green salad
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make these ahead?
Yes! Assemble up to 1 day in advance and refrigerate before baking.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently.
Can I freeze them?
Yes! Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
Enjoy your delicious homemade Polish Stuffed Cabbage Rolls (Gołąbki)! Let us know how yours turned out in the comments!
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